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History of BMW Cars in the UK

It all began almost a century ago, when a handful of BMWs made their quiet arrival on British shores. Originally founded in 1916 as Bayerische Motoren Werke, the company had roots in aircraft engines before pivoting to motorcycles and cars. In the 1950s, British drivers began to notice BMW's distinctive style and solid German engineering. However, it wasn't until 1975, with the launch of the iconic 3 Series, that the brand began to gain traction.

Sleek, sharp, and effortlessly cool, the 3 Series redefined the executive saloon in the UK. By 1981, BMW had officially established its presence in the UK, setting the stage for a lasting bond. From there, BMW became known not just as a premium brand. But as the maker of "The Ultimate Driving Machine." It delivered cars that felt alive with precise steering, balanced handling, and a sense of control that resonated with driving purists.

The 1 Series brought that same magic to the hatchback market, while the 7 Series offered true luxury without compromise. Enthusiasts gravitated to the legendary M division, where performance met engineering brilliance. And as the world shifted toward sustainability, BMW stayed ahead with its electric "i" range, proving that you didn’t have to trade excitement for efficiency. Today, the UK stands as one of BMW's most important markets, with over 180,000 cars sold annually. The brand supports British jobs, especially through its Oxford-based MINI plant.

It's a relationship built not just on cars, but on trust, innovation, and passion. And with models like the 3 Series retaining strong resale value and BMW's tech continuing to evolve, the story is far from over. British drivers remain firmly behind the wheel of one of the world's most respected marques.