http://www.leftlanenews.com/breaking-bmw-d...-quits-job.html

Chris Bangle, the often controversial BMW Group head of design who has essentially become a household name for millions of enthusiasts across the world, has announced that he will be leaving the German automaker to “pursue his own design-related endeavors beyond the auto industry,” according to a release issued earlier today.

Bangle’s departure comes as a surprise to many in the industry because, despite his polarizing designs across the BMW lineup, his projects have generally been met with commercial success and he is well-revered within BMW circles.

Adrian van Hooydonk, head of design for the BMW brand, will succeed Bangle effective immediately.

Bangle’s unique surface detailing has become a staple of the BMW lineup, though more recent designs - such as the all-new 7-Series - have been toned down compared to his earlier designs, like the current 6-Series.

As more information regarding Bangle’s rather abrupt departure becomes available, we’ll continue to update you.

I think future BMWs are going to look better, even if sales went up while he was there, I don't think it was Bangle's designs that were causing it.

I think future BMWs are going to look better,

Agreed. At least I hope so.

even if sales went up while he was there, I don't think it was Bangle's designs that were causing it.

Chalk that up to people becoming more image-conscious and buying stripper models of 3- and 5-Series just so they could say they have a BMW.

I have to say I never payed any attention to any BMW on the road until the Bangle-designed ones. I think the Bangled 1, 3 coupe, 6 and Z4 were very attractive designs. The 5 and 7 weren't exactly pretty, but at least they were distinct. I'd rather drive an "ugly" car than a nondescript one any day.