BMW has a vehicle for every kind of driver—whether you're after sporty performance, executive luxury, or grand touring prestige. But with so many numbered Series, it can be tough to know which one fits your lifestyle. Here’s your all-in-one guide to understanding the key differences between the BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, and 8 Series.

BMW 2 Series – The Sporty Entry Point

The 2 Series is a compact, performance-focused coupe (also available as a Gran Coupe). It’s the smallest of the BMW lineup but still packs the driving dynamics BMW is known for.

• Body Style: Coupe, Gran Coupe (sedan-style)
• Drive Feel: Nimble, agile, and surprisingly powerful
• Ideal For: Young professionals, enthusiasts, city drivers
• Notable Model: M240i xDrive Coupe – quick and fun

BMW 3 Series – The Benchmark Sedan

The 3 Series is BMW’s most iconic model—offering a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and daily usability.

• Body Style: Sedan, Touring (wagon in some markets)
• Drive Feel: Balanced, sporty, refined
• Ideal For: Daily commuters, entry-level luxury shoppers
• Notable Model: 330i or M340i for sporty vibes

BMW 4 Series – Sleek and Stylish Performance

Think of the 4 Series as the stylish sibling of the 3 Series. It shares the same platform but comes in coupe, convertible, and four-door Gran Coupe variants with a bolder design.

• Body Style: Coupe, Convertible, Gran Coupe
• Drive Feel: Similar to 3 Series but slightly sportier
• Ideal For: Style-conscious drivers who still want luxury
• Notable Model: 430i Gran Coupe, M440i Convertible

BMW 5 Series – Business Class on Wheels

Larger and more luxurious than the 3 Series, the 5 Series is a midsize sedan that leans into executive refinement without losing BMW’s performance DNA.

• Body Style: Sedan
• Drive Feel: Smooth, spacious, confidence-inspiring
• Ideal For: Professionals, families, long-distance commuters
• Notable Model: 540i or plug-in hybrid 530e

BMW 6 Series – Grand Touring Reimagined

Though production is limited, the 6 Series has served as a more luxurious, swoopier alternative to the 5 Series. In recent years, it's been represented by the 6 Series Gran Turismo (GT)—a hatchback-style sedan.

• Body Style: Gran Turismo (fastback-style sedan)
• Drive Feel: Comfy and smooth, more cruiser than corner-carver
• Ideal For: Long-distance travelers who want comfort and space
• Notable Model: 640i xDrive GT

BMW 7 Series – The Pinnacle of Luxury Sedans

This is BMW’s full-size flagship sedan, loaded with technology, comfort, and powerful performance. The rear seat experience can rival that of a private jet.

• Body Style: Full-size sedan
• Drive Feel: Ultra-smooth, quiet, executive-level luxury
• Ideal For: Executives, luxury travelers, chauffeur-driven buyers
• Notable Model: 740i, 760i, or all-electric BMW i7

BMW 8 Series – The Ultimate Grand Tourer

Blending luxury and sport, the 8 Series is BMW’s top-of-the-line coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe. It’s sleek, powerful, and made for high-speed highway cruising in style.

• Body Style: Coupe, Convertible, Gran Coupe
• Drive Feel: High-performance luxury with long-distance comfort
• Ideal For: High-end drivers who crave elegance and excitement
• Notable Model: M850i xDrive or the ferocious M8 Competition

Which BMW Series is Right for You?

1. Budget-friendly performance? Go with the 2 Series.
2. All-arounder with legacy? The 3 Series never disappoints.
3. Style-forward? Choose the 4 Series.
4. Need room and luxury? The 5 Series or 6 Series GT has you covered.
5. Desire true luxury? The 7 Series is the answer.
6. Want performance and prestige? The 8 Series will sweep you off your feet.

Still undecided?
Come test drive them at BMW of Bridgewater. Our team is happy to walk you through each model and help you find your perfect match—whether you're upgrading your daily drive or exploring the world of BMW for the first time.

Schedule your appointment today or browse our available inventory.