Automotive design is a very complex thing. Not only must a design exude the brand’s values and have an identifiable style, but it also needs to be functional. BMW is no stranger to great designs, with some of its past models being cult classics, that said, its latest work has sparked controversy.
We first caught a glimpse of BMW’s new design direction when the Concept 4 was revealed. This very fluid form of bodywork captured the imagination, however, a pair of enormous kidney grilles dominated the front of this car. Sometimes concept vehicles feature exaggerated elements, but come the reveal of the all-new 4 Series, those vast intakes remained. It certainly raised a few eyebrows.
Frank Stephenson is one of motoring’s most influential designers, and has been responsible for cars such as the BMW Mini, Fiat 500, Maserati MC12 and McLaren P1. He also spent a lot of time at BMW, ushering in the German marque’s first SUV. On his YouTube channel Stephenson spends time looking at the car designs to gauge how well the team has executed various elements.
His latest video looks at the new 4 Series, and in general Frank likes what he sees. While the model drops some traditional BMW design traits, he thinks the car is pretty harmonious and quite handsome overall – we agree. Attention then turns to those grilles that are described as being disjointed and seemingly a separate design from the car. He does recognise that it has been influenced by classic BMW’s, but goes on to criticise the lack of consideration around its design.
Frank’s feelings appear to be the same as many other enthusiasts that find the new grille to be jarring. He goes as far as to say that the front-end design has been ruined by it. A heavy judgment from a man with a proven track record of car design.
You can check out the full video and Frank’s other segments on new cars over on his channel.
Keyword: McLaren P1 designer hates BMW’s new grille