In 2002, BMW made a design U-turn, abandoning the classic styling cues that had long distinguished the brand in favor of what pundits described as a more conventional shape. When the faithful are devout believers, any departure from the true path can generate a critical response, so some Bimmer fans were very unhappy with the new sheetmetal. To this radical styling change add another game-altering move: the full adaptation of the I-Drive computer system. This innovative microprocessor-equipped device is in charge of climate control, audio, and the nav system--all by means of a single display. Many drivers have found it bewildering. And a long list of high-tech features caused some to wonder if an "ultimate driving machine' really needed so much electronic adornment
