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The BMW 3 Series and the X5 Recognized as Exciting Vehicles

22 September 2000

The BMW 3 Series and the X5 Recognized as Vehicles 'That Most Excite' Their Owners

 The BMW 3 Series and X5 Receive J.D. Power and Associates 'APEAL' Awards In
                     Entry Luxury and Luxury SUV Segments

    WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Sept. 22 The BMW 3 Series and the
all new BMW X5 Sport Activity Vehicle both ranked highest in their respective
categories in the J.D. Power and Associates' APEAL study.  The BMW 3 Series
ranked as the "most appealing entry luxury car" and the X5 as the "most
appealing SUV."
    This marks the sixth consecutive year that BMW automobiles have received
awards based on this prestigious study.
    According to J.D. Power and Associates, the APEAL Study (APEAL stands for
Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout) is the first study of
significance to measure what excites and delights about their car - a
quantifiable measurement of the intangibles that form the relationship between
a vehicle and its owner.  Specifically, the study analyzes such areas as
styling, engine and transmission performance, comfort and convenience, ride
and handling, seats, heating, cooling and ventilation, cockpit layout,
instrument panel and sound system.
    "These awards are significant because they reflect the emotions of the
people who own and drive our products," said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO of
BMW (US) Holding Corp.  "The award for the X5 is particularly thrilling and
demonstrates that BMW was able to remain true to its own consistent tradition
and philosophy and bring to market a vehicle that combines all-road capability
with the attributes people most appreciate in BMW automobiles."