Major news outlet 'Sour' on new 3-series?

Why is this a big deal? One reviewer didn't like the design of the new 3...ok. I like the look but I've generally been surprised at how well the press has received it.

Healy is not telling us anything we don't already know. He's just not inhaling the BMW smoke :-)

When the current 7 series debuted, auto critics an trade reviewers recoiled at the definitely-not-pleasant styling. Meanwhile, Chris Bangle educated the automotive press and buying public on the complexities of the design, on how one must get to know the Flame Surface styling language ove time to appreciate it.

Here we are, years later, and time have proven the first responce to be an accurate one. It ain't nice lookin'. The 3 series greatest styling credit is that it is the least ugly of the ugly ducklings.

As a BMW fan and owner of 3 pre-Bangle BMWs (all in my garage), I believe that BMW is not so stupid as to keep perpetuating their mistake. They'll smarten up eventually. All the power to them when that day comes.

Healy is not telling us anything we don't already know. He's just not inhaling the BMW smoke :-)

When the current 7 series debuted, auto critics an trade reviewers recoiled at the definitely-not-pleasant styling. Meanwhile, Chris Bangle educated the automotive press and buying public on the complexities of the design, on how one must get to know the Flame Surface styling language ove time to appreciate it.

Here we are, years later, and time have proven the first responce to be an accurate one. It ain't nice lookin'. The 3 series greatest styling credit is that it is the least ugly of the ugly ducklings.

As a BMW fan and owner of 3 pre-Bangle BMWs (all in my garage), I believe that BMW is not so stupid as to keep perpetuating their mistake. They'll smarten up eventually. All the power to them when that day comes.

I actually think the new 3 Series is a strong design; despite being repulsed by the 7 Series, confused by the Z4, and annoyed by the 5.

The 3 Series represents a milestone for Bangle and company. They have finally figured out how to take their bold design concept and tame it into something tasteful yet emotional.

The design approach in theory is actually quite visionary. It's what I think many cars may look like in a decade. But the execution was, up until now, very badly handled.

The designs were too academic and experimental. Lost were the sweeping lines that flowed from front to back (something that Audi now does so well), and the classic proportions and restraint that guaranteed a look that would stand the test of time.

But this new 3 Series has finally struck a balance between innovative design and classic beauty.

Yes, the tail lights are a letdown, and the interior workmanship has been compromised.

But I still think that this is a great looking sports car.