5 Underrated BMWs That Deserve More Love

When you think of BMW, it’s easy to name-drop the M3, the X5, or the ultra-luxurious 7 Series. But BMW’s lineup has had plenty of hidden gems over the years, models that quietly deliver on performance, style, and innovation without getting the same spotlight as their more famous siblings. Whether you’re a die-hard enthusiast or just love a good underdog story, here are the top 5 underrated BMWs that deserve way more credit than they get.

1. BMW 128i (E82 Coupe, 2008–2013)

Why it’s underrated:
The 128i was overshadowed by its turbocharged sibling, the 135i, but it’s secretly one of the best driver’s cars BMW made in the 2000s. With a naturally aspirated inline-6 engine, rear-wheel drive, and near-perfect weight distribution, the 128i offers a raw, engaging experience that’s missing from many modern cars. Plus, it’s lighter, simpler, and more reliable than the turbo models.

2. BMW 540i (G30, 2017–present)

Why it’s underrated:
The current 5 Series usually gets attention for the M5, but the 540i is a sleeper sedan with serious power. Its turbocharged inline-6 delivers a smooth 335 hp, and with optional xDrive, it handles like a dream in all conditions. It’s luxury-meets-performance without the price tag or flash of the M cars, and that’s what makes it so good.

3. BMW Z3 Coupe ("Clown Shoe", 1999–2002)

Why it’s underrated:
Let’s be honest, people either love or hate how this car looks. But under the funky styling is a chassis that’s stiff, balanced, and ridiculously fun to drive. The Z3 Coupe was also one of the last BMWs to feature that old-school mechanical feel, and the M version in particular is a cult classic now. It’s quirky, rare, and brilliant.

4. BMW X1 (First Generation, E84, 2009–2015)

Why it’s underrated:
The first-gen X1 wasn’t flashy, but it was one of the last small BMW crossovers to use a rear-wheel-drive platform. That made it surprisingly dynamic for a compact SUV. People brushed it off as a “starter” BMW, but enthusiasts knew it had real Bavarian DNA and handled better than anything else in its class.

5. BMW 640i Gran Coupe (F06, 2012–2019)

Why it’s underrated:
This car is a stunner that never got the hype it deserved. Sleek, elegant, and with the heart of a sports sedan, the 640i Gran Coupe was the perfect mix of performance and luxury. The twin-scroll turbocharged inline-6 gave it plenty of power, and the long, low-slung body made it look like it belonged in a Bond movie. Most people looked right past it, and they missed out.

Final Thoughts

Not every great BMW wears an M badge or makes the front page of car blogs. Some of the best driving experiences come from the models flying under the radar. These five cars prove that with BMW, sometimes the underdogs are where the real magic happens. So if you’re hunting for your next car, or just love learning about the hidden stars in BMW’s lineup, keep these underrated picks on your radar. They might just surprise you.