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Shanghai Surprise! Concept CS April 20, 2007 ) The Concept CS — a new BMW flagship? Click on images for larger views.
First: If it goes into production, it would likely supplant the 7 Series as the automaker's flagship. Second: It's making its world debut in China, a potentially gigantic and obviously important market for BMW.
And third: It represents the latest interpretation of head designer Chris Bangle's convex-concave design language. Boasting a sleek body with a low-slung roof, stretched wheelbase and stylish sharp lines, the CS is a design study of how BMW would do a large coupe-like sedan. The aerodynamically contoured roof tapers ever so gently towards the rear with an expansive back window, very much giving the impression of a fast coupe. The upper crease on each side disappears into the rear doors, where another more curved crease begins, casting attention to the vehicle's wide track and rear-wheel-drive performance. ) The CS is a design study of how BMW would do a large coupe-like sedan. BMW's cars typically have long hoods and short deck lids — these aspects are exaggerated on the CS with its dramatic 200.8-inch length (nearly 17.5 feet!). The front end almost appears shark-like, with the large air-swallowing twin-kidney grille set forward and the slats resembling sharp teeth. Other striking cues include innovative reverse-LED headlamps, squinting taillamps beneath clear covers, and powerfully flared fenders enveloping large 21-inch alloy wheels. The interior features layered surfaces, clearly defined functional joints (for ventilation and illumination), contrasting colors and leather surfaces, and, foremost, a driver-focused cockpit. As a first, controls and instruments are made of ceramic. Four sport seats accommodate adults in space and comfort. This is a new segment to tap in the world of luxury cars. Mercedes and Maserati already have their entries, the CLS and Quattroporte, respectively, while Porsche and Aston Martin are readying the Panamera and Rapide, again respectively. We don't think BMW wants to be left behind, so expect a production decision soon on the CS. We love the lines and proportions, though not the eye lids, and give it two thumbs up. )
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