387: It Might Not Be as Cool as You Think

Grille Debate

The new BMW grille design has sparked significant debate among car enthusiasts. John Siracusa describes it as having a "Battlestar Galactica style," with a protruding, pig-nostril-like appearance, deviating from BMW's traditional double kidney grille 1. Marco Arment questions whether BMW's adherence to this design is necessary, especially as the automotive industry shifts towards electric vehicles, which require less air intake 2. Casey Liss argues that the iconic kidney grille is a crucial part of BMW's brand identity, even if it no longer serves a functional purpose 2.

   

Brand Evolution

Reflecting on BMW's past, Casey Liss notes a shift in the brand's identity since the late 2000s, moving away from the "ultimate driving machine" ethos 3. He compares this to Sony's decline in personal attachment, highlighting a loss of passion for the brand 3. John Siracusa emphasizes the importance of innovation, suggesting that brands must create new models to maintain relevance, rather than relying solely on nostalgic designs 4.