The 2019 model year has seen BMW introduce a redesigned 3-Series, Z4, and X5 as well as an all-new X7 full-size SUV in order to retain the sales it has grabbed in the premium end of the market during the last five years. To keep the revenue momentum going, BMW has enlarged the 3-Series and given it some novel features, the Z4 roadster (co-developed with Toyota) is once again a soft-top to give it characteristics of an Ultimate Driving Machine, the X5 is now available with an Off-Road Package to go more places, and the new X7 aims to take sales away from full-size luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and Cadillac Escalade. Read on to see what BMW has changed with each new model…

BMW’s venerable 3-Series should retain its notable driving dynamics while carrying new high-tech features. Regarding powertrain choices, the new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powering the new 2019 BMW 330i unit delivers 255 horsepower while the turbocharged 3-liter inline six-cylinder in the M340i makes 382 horsepower. Both come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel-drive optional. The weight of the new 3-Series has been reduced by as much as 121 pounds. Buyers of the 330i can choose between three exterior themes: base Sport Line, upscale Luxury Line, and dedicated performance M Sport, which has sports seats with M-specific upholstery, an M leather steering wheel, and stiffer suspension. The 330i sports wagon retains its old bodystyle for the 2019 model year and is available only with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 248 horsepower paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system.

The two-seat Z4 roadster should be much better to drive than the previous version largely due to replacing the retractable hardtop with a soft top which should help both weight and driving dynamics. There are two versions of the Z4, which has a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, to choose from: the sDrive30i with a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine making 255 horsepower and the M40i with a turbocharged 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine generating 382 horsepower. Both versions come with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission. Those wanting more performance from the sDrive30i model can get the M Sport package with a three-section air intake for the front apron, 19-inch M light-alloy wheels, M Sport or Adaptive M suspension. For even more performance parts, buyers can get the Track Handling package with M Sport brakes, Adaptive M suspension and the M Sport differential. In addition, optional M sports seats include electro-pneumatic backrest width adjustment to optimize lateral support through high-speed corners.

The X5, BMW’s midsize SUV, has a larger interior (helpful for accommodating a third row of passengers) and comes standard with plenty of high-tech equipment. With the optional two-axle air suspension, the new X5 is also very comfortable to drive and absorb bumps on the road with ease. Buyers can choose between two engines: a 3-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine making 335 horsepower or a turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 making 456 horsepower, both paired to an 8-speed automatic and only available with all-wheel-drive. The X5 comes standard with adaptive LED headlights (BMW Laserlights are available as an option), electrically adjustable heated sports seats, illuminated door sill plates, BMW Live Cockpit Professional with two 12.3-inch digital displays, and BMW’s Active Driving Assistant, which includes blind spot detection, lane departure warning, rear collision warning, and frontal collision warning, among other safety features. In addition, there is a new optional Off-Road Package that includes rugged underbody protection, two-axle air suspension, and an electronically controlled rear differential lock.

The X7 , BMW’s first-ever full-size SUV, offers standard three row seating for seven with optional second-row captain’s chairs (unlike the X5) which reduces the capacity to six people. Buyers can choose between two engines: a 3-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine making 335 horsepower (xDrive40i) or a turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 making 456 horsepower (xDrive50i), both paired to an 8-speed automatic and only available with all-wheel-drive. Notable options include 5-zone automatic climate control, BMW Laserlight headlights, glass controls, and a Panorama Sky Lounge LED Roof, part of the Executive Package, which spreads LED light evenly across the glass surfaces to illuminate more than 15,000 graphic patterns and generate a display reminiscent of a starlit sky. Another nifty feature is the Parking Assistant Professional package, which takes care of the acceleration, braking, steering and gear changes necessary to maneuver into a parallel parking space. Air suspension, blind spot detection, lane departure warning, pedestrian warning, a driver alertness monitoring system, full LED lights, and a digital 12.3” instrument cluster display behind the steering wheel all come standard.