BMW 2020 Models: The Highlights Of Each

Catrina C
Nov 30, 2020

There are a ton of BMW models to fit the needs of drivers at different entry levels. There are dozens of models available today.

2020 BMW X5 - Photo by BMW

What models does BMW make?

  • X1: $38,811 – $46,075
  • X2: $40,304 – $47,309
  • X3: $43,902 – $51,706
  • X4: $43,902 – $51,706
  • X5: $57,353 – $89,665
  • X6: $68,493 – $85,185
  • X7: $72,008 – $78,007
  • 2: $68,493 – $85,185
  • 3: $54,140 – $60,755
  • 4: $46,875 – $67,026
  • 5: $57,596 – $69,175
  • 6: $52,591 – $80,204
  • 7: $65,781 – $142,613
  • 8: $86,851 – $100,062
  • i3: $47,650 – $51,500
  • i8: $147,500 – $163,300

Are BMWs worth the money? Are BMWs luxurious? Will BMWs work for a family of five? These are great questions that you’ll have answered in this article.

BMW X1

MSRP: $38,811 – $46,075

The X1 has a turbocharged engine and is reasonably priced as an entry-level BMW. It has a smaller size, but it has substantial cargo space of up to 58.7 cubic feet. The base engine is a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo 4, and the transmission is an 8-speed automatic with overdrive.

2020 BMW X1 - Photo by BMW

Seating up to five, the vehicle has some excellent features, such as interior sport leather, a cargo area with concealed storage, fade-to-off interior lighting and SensaTec upholstery.

  • NHTSA safety rating: 5/5 stars
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G”
  • MPG: 23-24 City / 31-33 HWY
  • Horsepower: 228

Owners love that the X1 has a sporty finish and responsive performance, giving it 4.43/5 stars. Experts rate it 4.5/5 stars for its great handling and options.

BMW X2

MSRP: $40,304 – $47,309

Seating five, the X2 is a classically styled BMW model that comes standard with a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo 4 engine. It has 228 horsepower and gets up to 32 mpg on the highway. It is an economical BMW with a reasonable starting price.

2020 BMW X2 - Photo by BMW

The 50.1 cubic feet of cargo space makes this BMW roomier than some, and safety features such as DSC-X electronic stability control, a back-up camera, park distance control front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning and BMW Assist eCall Emergency SOS come standard.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Rated
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G” 2020 Top Safety Pick+
  • MPG: 23-24 City / 30-32 HWY
  • Horsepower: 228-301

Owners give the X2 4.83/5 stars for being a great compact crossover with excellent safety features and responsive handling. They remark on the hands-free features that keep drivers safer while in motion.

BMW X3

MSRP: $43,902 – $51,706

The X3 has a powerful engine selection as well as rear-wheel or all-wheel drive options. Precise handling and new LED headlights with built-in cornering lights make it safer to drive. The high-performance X3 M has been added to the 2020 lineup.

2020 BMW X3 - Photo by BMW

The three engines include the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 and the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-6. With the twin-turbocharged engine, it’s possible to get up to 503 horsepower in the X3 M Competition model. All models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

  • NHTSA safety rating: 5/5 stars
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G” 2019 Top Safety Pick+
  • MPG: 21-25 City / 24-29 HWY
  • Horsepower: 248-382

The X3 gets 4.49/5-star owner reviews and 4.4/5-star expert reviews for being extremely comfortable and safe to drive. It gets decent gas mileage and has more interior space than past models.

BMW X4

MSRP: $51,100 – $61,000

With standard all-wheel drive, the X4 is easy to control. That’s good, since it has a choice of powerful engines like the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 or 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engines. The M performance model can get up to 503 horsepower, but the base models get between 248 and 382.

2020 BMW X4 - Photo by BMW

There is an optional 6-cylinder engine available, and Apple CarPlay is included. Forward-collision warning and pedestrian detection come standard, as does BMW’s Ultimate Care, which covers three years of service (or up to 36,000 miles).

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 21-23 City / 27-28 HWY
  • Horsepower: 248-382

The X4 has 4.74-star ratings from owners and 3.6/5 from experts. Owners appreciate that the X4 has a stylish appearance with active safety features and higher horsepower.

BMW X5

MSRP: $57,353 – $89,665

Seating up to seven, the BMW X5 has room for the whole family. It has great safety ratings and can have a third row added on as an option for $2,200. The dashboard is home to a 10.2-inch touchscreen, and the cargo area expands up to 72.3 cubic feet.

2020 BMW X5 - Photo by BMW

The midsize Audi model has three engine options, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 and 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (M50i). The powerful engine has decent fuel economy, and an off-roading package is available.

  • NHTSA safety rating: 4/5 stars
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G” 2019 Top Safety Pick+
  • MPG: 16-21 City / 22-26 HWY
  • Horsepower: 335-523

Owners rate the vehicle at 4.55/5 stars, while experts give it 4.8/5. Owners love the remodel and BMW assistant features. The SUV has power and is comfortable enough for long drives.

BMW X6

MSRP: $68,493 – $85,185

Seating up to five, this BMW model is a sporty four-door with athletic handling and an off-road package available. It has been completely redesigned for 2020 and is now longer, wider and lower than previous models.

2020 BMW X6 - Photo by BMW

It moves from 0 to 60 in just 4.1 seconds, and both engines use an 8-speed sport automatic transmission. The engines include the 3.0 turbocharged inline-6 and 4.4-.liter twin-turbocharged V8. Driver-selected driving modes are available, and the transmission uses motivation data to predict gear changes.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 16-21 City / 22-26 HWY
  • Horsepower: 335-523

Owners give the BMW X6 4.38/5 stars for its performance and sleek appearance. Experts give it just 4/5. Owners state that it sounds great, has smooth performance and is speedy.

BMW X7

MSRP: $72,008 – $78,007

The BMW X7 has an 8-speed automatic transmission with a towing capacity between 5,400 and 7,500 pounds. With 330 lb.-ft. of torque and seating for up to seven, it’s a powerful vehicles for families and individuals alike.

2020 BMW X7 - Photo by BMW

Safety features in the X7 include ABS and Driveline traction control, lane departure warning, a back-up camera, rear child safety locks, active blind sport detection and blind spot warning. Park Distance Control with front and rear parking sensors makes it easy to park anywhere.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 15-20 City / 21-25 HWY
  • Horsepower: 335-523

Owners give the BMW X& 4.18/5 stars for a luxurious exterior and interior. It has automated parking and massage chairs in the xDrive50i that consumers enjoy. Consumers agree it’s comfortable to drive.

BMW 2 Series

MSRP: $35,300 – $52,400

Seating up to five (four in some trims), the 2020 BMW 2 Series comes as a coupe or convertible. The compact sports car has little interior room, but it’s snug and comfortable for four. The vehicle is nimble, and the M240i comes with a more prominent front spoiler, sculpted rocker panels, rear fascia and larger air intakes.

2020 BMW 2 Series - Photo by BMW

There are two possible engines, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 and the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6. Each gets decent fuel mileage, though the convertible is best of all with the 2.0-liter engine.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Rated
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G”
  • MPG: 19-24 City / 27-34 HWY
  • Horsepower: 228-335

Owners give the care 4.76/5 stars, while experts rate it 4.5/5. Owners say it’s a solid vehicle that is reliable and speedy with good handling.

BMW 3 Series

MSRP: $54,140 – $60,755

Seating five, the 2020 BMW 3 Series received the Owner’s Choice award at Vehicle History. It is considered to be the “benchmark” of luxury sedans. It has a 6-cylinder model for 2020. No manual transmission is available, but there are two engine options.

2020 BMW 3 Series - Photo by BMW

Both engines, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 and 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, get decent gas mileage and are economical overall. All models now come with start/stop systems, so the engine doesn’t have to idle when at a stop.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Rated
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G” 2020 Top Safety Pick
  • MPG: 22-26 City / 30-36 HWY
  • Horsepower: 255-382

Experts give the BMW 3 series 4.6/5, while owners give it 4.71/5. Owners name the responsive steering, comfortable heating and cooling options and luxurious interior as positives.

BMW 4 Series

MSRP: $46,875 – $67,026

The 2020 BMW 4 Series has a Gran Coupe, coupe and retractable hard-top convertible. There is a range of trims and options to add on, too. Rain-sensing wipers and active driving assistant are standard on this model, as of 2020.

2020 BMW 4 Series - Photo by BMW

Inside, the seating is comfortable and open for up to four people. The vehicle has a lower center of gravity, giving it good balance for day-to-day driving. It’s an 8-speed automatic, which is more practical in daily life. Rear-wheel models come with optional manual transmissions.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 18-23 City / 27-34 HWY
  • Horsepower: 248-320

Owners give the 2020 BMW 4 Series 4.61/5 stars, while experts give it 4.1/5. Owners love that the performance is good; it’s a reliable vehicle. It runs well, and the safety precautions are state-of-the-art.

BMW 5 Series

MSRP: $57,596 – $69,175

The BMW 5 series has several engines to choose from, including the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4+ AC synchronous electric motor, the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 and the 4.4-liter turbocharged V8.

2020 BMW 5 Series - Photo by BMW

The high-tech options, heated front seating, M Sport differential on the M550i and the upgraded Live Cockpit Professional with navigation make this a smart buy. LED headlights, a rearview camera, parking sensors and advanced driver aids help keep occupants safe.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Rated
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G” 2019 Top Safety Pick+
  • MPG: 18-27 City / 25-33 HWY
  • Horsepower: 248-523

Owners rate the BMW 5 Series 4.56/5 stars, while experts give it 4.6/5. Owners say that they enjoy the comfortable, easy-to-drive vehicle. Apple CarPlay is named one of the favorite features.

BMW 6 Series

MSRP: $52,591 – $80,204

With good highway gas mileage and seating for up to five, the BMW 6 Series is suitable for families or individuals. It has the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 or 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe) engines that produce 315-600 horsepower for a powerful ride.

2020 BMW 6 Series - Photo by BMW

The BANG&OLUFSEN surround-sound system uses 16 speakers throughout the vehicle. The convertible has been discontinued, so this 4-door model is the only option for the body in this series.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 17-20 City / 25-29 HWY
  • Horsepower: 315-600

Owners give the 6 Series 5/5 stars for a sleek, beautiful car that is comfortable. They say it turns well and is reliable. Experts rate it 3.7/5.

BMW 7 Series

MSRP: $65,781 – $142,613

With room for four to five people, the BMW 7 Series is a classic. It has the obvious styling and front grille of a BMW that makes it stand out. It has been redesigned to be comfortable and has several high-tech features, like the 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system.

2020 BMW 7 Series - Photo by BMW

Apple CarPlay is installed, and Qi wireless charging comes standard with two USB ports. Traffic-jam assistance and the driving assistance professional package add in the adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist. A plug-in hybrid powertrain is available.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 13-22 City / 20-29 HWY
  • Horsepower: 335-600

Owners give the vehicle 4.88/5 stars. One owner calls the vehicle cozy for long trips, while another says the smooth ride and safety features make them happy to call it theirs.

BMW 8 Series

MSRP: $86,851 – $100,062

Seating four or five, depending on the trim, this BMW model is an expensive, but luxurious, option. This model is new with the four-door Gran Coupe joining the lineup, and the 6-cylinder 840i and 840i xDrive give you different engine options.

2020 BMW 8 Series - Photo by BMW

The luxurious interior, all-wheel-drive traction and body options, including the 4-door, convertible and coupe versions, make it feel custom to your preferences. It has excellent handling, Apple CarPlay free for a year and speeds from 0-60 in just 3.6 seconds (3.8 for the convertible).

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 17-23 City / 25-30 HWY
  • Horsepower: 335-523

Owners rate the BMW 8 Series 4.8/5 stars for the terrific twin-turbo V8, comfortable seating, and responsive brakes. It has a smooth ride and is reliable.

BMW Z4

MSRP: $50,190 – $65,811

Seating two, the BMW Z4 is a sporty, small convertible. It has rear-wheel drive and a 2.0L 4 engine. It holds up to 13.4 gallons of gas at a time, getting up to 32 mpg on the highway. It has an 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and 9.9 cubic feet of cargo space.

2020 BMW Z4 - Photo by BMW

Add-on packages include the M sport package with Shadowline exterior trim, track handling package with M Sport differential and adaptive M suspension, the driving assistance package with lane departure warning, active blind spot detection and active driving assistant or the executive package.

The convenience package and premium package are also available on this model.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 24 City / 31-32 HWY
  • Horsepower: 255-382

Owners give the Z4 4.9 out of five stars for its speed, power and reliability. It has a smooth ride and responsive handling.

BMW i3

MSRP: $47,650 – $51,500

The i3 is an electric BMW model with up to 124 mpg in the city or 102 on the highway. With seating for up to four, it has the room needed for individuals or small families. It holds only 2.3 gallons of fuel, since it has an electric fuel system.

2020 BMW i3 - Photo by BMW

The single-speed automatic has up to 36.9 cubic feet of cargo space with P175/55TR20 tires as standard. Safety features include park distance control with front and rear parking sensors.

  • NHTSA safety rating: No Rating
  • IIHS overall safety rating: “G”
  • MPG: 100-124 City / 100-102 HWY
  • Horsepower: 170-181

Owners rate this BMW model at 4.91/5 stars for its amazing fuel economy and reliability. It has a futuristic look and sensitive brakes that help with quick stops.

BMW i8

MSRP: $147,500 – $163,300

The i8 comes as a coupe or the Roadster. They have a 1.5L DOHC Turbo 3 engine, seating for two in the Roadster or up to four in the coupe. Both vehicles use electric and gas, helping them be as eco-friendly as possible while still having the power needed for speed.

2020 BMW i8 - Photo by BMW

The Roadster and coupe both have a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and good overall fuel economy. Safety features like lane departure warning and active blind spot detection help prevent collisions.

  • NHTSA safety rating: Not Tested
  • IIHS overall safety rating: Not Rated
  • MPG: 27 City / 27 HWY
  • Horsepower: 369

Owners rate this BMW model 4.36/5 stars for a great interior, luxurious feel and speedy engine. A smooth drive with good gas mileage also appeals to owners.

Photos: BMW

avatar Catrina C
Catrina C. is a former auto auction block clerk and current freelance automotive industry writer. She enjoys writing, taking long trips in her Ford and providing solid automotive advice.
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