Inside Info: BMW Sportvan

Sportvans are the next big thing at BMW. In 2005, the Bavarian automaker confirmed it would build a sportvan/MPV/wagon based on the X5 (itself based on the 5 Series). The vehicle was developed under the working title RFK, but we believe it'll be called F5. Now comes word that BMW is planning a similar vehicle based off its 3 Series-called F3-though the company's board hasn't given it the green light, yet. BMW is expected to launch the F5 in mid-2009 and, if approved, the F3 the following year.

Motor Trend

Maybe it's the odd angle of the photograph, but this thing just looks weird. I can't tell if it's a stubby, squished minivan... or more of a vertically stretched wagon. I would prefer the vertically streched wagon look.

L-A-M-E

Ugh.

Is this to combat the Mercedes sportswagon they REFUSE to call a minivan?

Yup that is the same thing.

Can't wait to see a Dog-sus vehicle to compete these Germans.

"Sportvan"

no

such

thing

Keep in mind that these 'Space Concept' vehicles are quite popular in Europe. The theory behind the premium marques producing these things is that they feel the mid-market nameplates that produce these things now (Ford S & C-Max, Renault Espace & Scenic, VW Caddy & Touran) will be in for another squeeze, just as the 3-series & A4 et al. have killed the 'Mondeo-man' market.

In other words, these are euro-flavored and not intended to be anything more than incremental sellers here in the states. Just like Diesel engines and Robbie Williams, these concepts are not easily transferable to US tastes.

Can't they just call it a CUV?

"Sportvan"

no

such

thing

The Japanese Odyssey (of a couple years back, anyway) begs to differ.