BMW is known for pushing the boundaries of car design and technology. Over the years, the German automaker has teased fans with concept cars that showcase cutting-edge innovations and futuristic styling.
These concepts don’t always make it to production, but they give us a peek into BMW’s wild ideas and what could be on the horizon for car lovers. Let’s look at 15 of BMW’s most unforgettable concept cars that have made us dream of the future.
BMW Vision Next 100
The BMW Vision Next 100, unveiled in 2016, is a stunning concept car that perfectly blends science fiction with reality. Its copper-colored exterior features shape-shifting bodywork with 800 moving triangular scales that respond to driving conditions, while the interior transforms between two distinct modes – Boost for engaged driving and Ease for autonomous cruising.
The car’s most impressive features include a full windshield heads-up display, intelligent sensors that automatically open doors, and a “Companion” system that learns driver preferences, all wrapped in an aerodynamic body that achieves an incredibly low drag coefficient of 0.18.
BMW i Vision Dynamics
The i Vision Dynamics, revealed in 2017, is BMW’s answer to the electric revolution. It’s a four-door coupe designed to combine performance and sustainability. With a top speed of 120 mph and a range of around 373 miles, it’s a green machine that still packs a punch.
BMW used this concept as a preview of the i4, which shows how the i Vision Dynamics helped shape the brand’s EV future. Its minimalist yet luxurious interior made it clear that electric doesn’t mean dull.
BMW M1 Hommage
The M1 Homage, from 2008, pays tribute to the iconic BMW M1 sports car from the 1970s. This concept was all about reimagining the classic with a modern twist. The M1 Homage featured bold angles, sharp lines, and a low, aggressive stance that screamed “supercar.”
While it never saw production, the M1 Homage served as a nod to BMW’s racing heritage and reminded everyone of the brand’s roots in speed and performance. BMW has reincarnated a version of the M1 Hommage in its BMW i8 model.
BMW GINA Light Visionary Model
The GINA Light Visionary Model, from 2008, stands out for its flexible, fabric skin. Yes, you read that right—this car had a textile outer layer that could change shape. BMW used it to explore radical ideas in design flexibility and aerodynamics.
The car sat on top of a Z8 roadster platform and it was a complete departure from traditional car manufacturing. Its adaptable body allowed the driver to “mold” parts of the car, like the headlights, creating a completely unique look.
BMW Vision M NEXT
The Vision M NEXT from 2019 is BMW’s vision of a hybrid sports car for the future. It’s a plug-in hybrid that offers both electric and gasoline power, allowing drivers to go eco-friendly or full-throttle on command. It promised a top speed of 186 mph with the looks to match.
With its flashy orange and gray design, the Vision M NEXT was a crowd-pleaser that nodded to BMW’s M heritage. Although it didn’t make it to the streets, it fueled excitement for what BMW’s high-performance line might become.
BMW iX Flow
Imagine changing the color of your car with the push of a button. The iX Flow concept, shown at CES, used electronic ink technology to alter its appearance on demand. With this tech, the car can shift between black, white, and gray to match your style or mood.
This concept sparked tons of buzz, highlighting BMW’s experimental side. While color-shifting cars may still be a way off, the iX Flow showed how BMW stays ahead of the game.
BMW Z9 Gran Turismo
The 1999 Z9 Gran Turismo concept introduced features that would eventually be seen in many of BMW’s luxury models. This large, four-door coupe was futuristic back in 1999, featuring the iDrive system that BMW drivers are familiar with today.
Though it never went into production, the Z9 showed BMW’s design direction and laid the groundwork for future tech in the brand’s luxury line. It’s one of the most influential concepts BMW ever made.
BMW 328 Hommage
The 328 Hommage was built to celebrate the 75th anniversary of BMW’s wonderfully legendary 328 sports car. Made with carbon-fiber elements and a vintage-inspired design, this roadster mixed nostalgia with futuristic tech, like LED headlights.
Its lightweight frame and retro look were a reminder of BMW’s racing past, giving fans a taste of how old-school charm could meet modern design. Though it wasn’t a commercial model, it’s a concept that holds a special place in BMW history and one we wish would come to life because it is just – all that.
BMW i Vision Circular
As an all-electric, fully recyclable concept, the i Vision Circular represents BMW’s commitment to sustainability. With a futuristic, compact design, it was made from recycled materials and focused on reducing waste, setting a new eco-friendly standard.
This 2021 model was all about a sustainable future, with a minimalist, zero-emission design that hinted at how BMW aims to be kinder to the planet. It’s a bold reminder that BMW wants to lead the charge on green innovation.
BMW 2002 GT4
Only two of these bad boys were made, and the question we have is why? Another stunner from designer Petro Frua, it was unveiled at that 1060 Paris Motor Show. It offered a unique glassed rear hatchback and a 2.0-liter engine that delivered 12 horsepower.
Not only did it borrow some parts from other BMW models, Frua brought in unique elements like Alfa Romeo tail lights and Campagnolo wheels.
BMW X Coupe
The X Coupe was a strange but fascinating concept from 2001. With an asymmetrical design and futuristic shape, this concept was far from typical. It introduced ideas that eventually influenced BMW’s crossover line, like the X5 and X6.
Although it never hit the roads, the X Coupe showed BMW wasn’t afraid to take risks with design. It was the kind of concept that makes you look twice and wonder what might come next.
BMW E25 Turbo
The BMW E25 Turbo was a groundbreaking concept car unveiled at the 1972 Paris Motor Show and built for the Munich Olympics. Designed by Paul Bracq, it featured a mid-mounted turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing between 200-280 horsepower, which later influenced the BMW 2002 Turbo.
The concept showcased advanced safety features including crumple zones, an integrated roll cage, and a radar-based braking distance warning system. Its distinctive gullwing doors and wedge-shaped design proved highly influential, directly inspiring future BMW models like the M1, 8 Series, and Z1.
BMW M3 Pickup
The BMW M3 Pickup was actually created twice – first as an E30 M3 pickup in the 1980s and later as an E92 M3 pickup revealed on April 1st, 2011. The original E30 version served as a workshop transport vehicle at BMW’s M division for 26 years, using a convertible chassis as its base and initially powered by a 2.0-liter engine that was later upgraded to the proper 2.3-liter M3 engine.
The 2011 E92 M3 Pickup was more sophisticated, featuring a 420hp V8 engine, a removable Targa roof, and an impressive 450kg load capacity in its aluminum-lined bed. While the 2011 version was fully road-legal and even tested on the Nürburgring, it was actually revealed as an elaborate April Fools’ joke, though it remained a functional vehicle used by BMW.
BMW Mille Miglia Concept Coupe
Inspired by the Mille Miglia races, this concept combined retro styling with modern aerodynamics. It’s a sleek, almost spaceship-like car that paid homage to BMW’s racing success in the early 20th century.
The concept kept the spirit of classic racers alive while showing off BMW’s design chops. It’s a unique part of BMW’s concept portfolio that blends history with a futuristic edge.
BMW Glas 3000
Seriously? Why is this not a thing we can enjoy? This stunner was seen at several motor shows from 1967-1969 but was never put into production. Designed by Pietro Frua, the car featured a 3.0-liter overhead-cam V8 engine. They would stop working on this to turn their attention to the E9 coupe.
BMW 331
Not a lot is known about this beauty, but we do know the body was designed by Peter Schimanowski. That body would be used on a prototype, called 331, that was powered by a 600cc engine from an R-51 motorcycle. The engine would be hooked to a four-speed gear box and a simple live-axle rear suspension was added.
This complete concept was considered a promising option for an affordable post-war car. But, the project would later be killed when the sales director stated BMW should not return to the economy car segment.
BMW H2R
The H2R was a hydrogen-powered racecar concept aimed at showing BMW’s commitment to alternative fuel sources. Built for speed, it set nine records for hydrogen-powered vehicles, showing that eco-friendly could still be fast.
With its streamlined, experimental look, the H2R was a step toward greener technology. It’s a car that proves BMW has long been thinking about sustainable options for the future.
BMW Nazca M12
The BMW Nazca M12 was a stunning concept car that debuted at the 1991 Geneva Motor Show, designed by 26-year-old Fabrizio Giugiaro of Italdesign. The supercar featured a mid-mounted 5.0-liter V12 engine from the BMW 850i producing 300 horsepower, which could propel the lightweight 1,100kg carbon fiber vehicle to nearly 300 km/h.
Its most distinctive features included a transparent all-glass cabin with unique gullwing-opening windows, a remarkably low 0.26 drag coefficient, and Formula 1-inspired design elements. While the concept never reached regular production, a special version was reportedly built for the Sultan of Brunei with an Alpina-modified engine.
BMW CS Concept
The 2007 CS Concept paid tribute to BMW’s classic E65 model, combining retro vibes with contemporary design. It’s an elegant concept that celebrates the timeless appeal of BMW’s earlier coupes while hinting at a future where luxury meets nostalgia.
The CS featured a modified V10 engine with two additional cylinders that provided a displacement of 6.0 liters. This concept fastback sedan was expected to go into production, but the financial crisis of 2008 put that idea to rest.
BMW 2002 Hommage
The 2002 Hommage was a tribute to one of BMW’s most beloved models, the 2002 Turbo. This concept featured modernized versions of the original’s iconic design elements, like the kidney grilles and flared fenders, mixed with updated tech.
With its bold stance and vintage-inspired looks, the 2002 Hommage showed BMW’s knack for celebrating its heritage. It’s the kind of car that brings back memories for long-time fans while catching the eye of a new generation.
BMW iX3 Concept
The iX3 Concept was an all-electric SUV that paved the way for the current iX3. With a focus on range and efficiency, this concept helped establish BMW’s path toward a greener SUV lineup, with eco-friendly features like an emissions-free drivetrain.
Its design was minimalistic yet powerful, showing that electric SUVs can be just as capable as their gas-guzzling counterparts. The iX3 Concept is a big step in BMW’s shift toward electric mobility.
Bayer K67
This was one was ahead of its time for sure. BMW would join forces with a plastics company called Covestro, which was part of the Bayer brand, to create the K67. It featured polyurethane panels that would prove to be easier to repair and corrosion-free. It also featured the design innovation of turn signals in side mirrors which would later be used by many car manufacturers.
Only five models were built and two remain in existence, one at a museum and that other at the Covestro headquarters.
BMW Z18
Those tires though? The BMW Z18 was a wild concept car from 1995 that combined the thrill of a convertible with serious off-road capability. It packed a powerful 4.4-liter V8 engine producing 355 horsepower, paired with a manual transmission and all-wheel drive.
The Z18’s most unique features included a waterproof interior, convertible body with hidden rear seats, and a plastic body mounted on a boat-like steel frame that BMW claimed could drive through shallow water. While it never made it to production, this versatile concept was actually BMW’s first 4×4 vehicle, predating the X5 by four years, and its V8 engine would later find its way into the X5.
BMW Zagato Roadster
The BMW Zagato Roadster was a stunning collaboration between BMW and Italian coachbuilder Zagato, unveiled in 2012. The car featured a unique liquid metal grey paint that shifted from dark grey to light silver depending on how light hit its surfaces, and distinctive roll-bars inspired by aircraft wings
It was designed not just as an elegant convertible but as a dynamic sports car, combining Italian “dolce vita” styling with BMW’s roadster tradition. The car’s most notable features included propeller-inspired wheels (a nod to both companies’ aviation heritage), distinctive air outlets on its flanks, and a seamless blend between its interior and exterior design that created a uniquely cohesive driving experience.
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