BMW VISION M NEXT CONCEPT: OUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF THIS TESLA THREAT

"We're not afraid of change," BMW stated at its future-tech focused #NEXTGen event in Munich this week. And that's especially clear with the Vision M Next concept, a striking plug-in hybrid that's as quick as an M8 yet can go around 60 miles on EV power alone. You've seen the photos and learned about the concept, but keep reading to learn about what the new BMW is like in person plus what angle Adrian van Hooydonk, senior vice president of BMW Group Design, especially likes.

ACTUALLY YOU'RE RIGHT, BMW

More than just text in a press release, the Vision M Next's dual-opening grille is faithful to the brand but really does have a sense of depth to it. Behind the silver grille trim you'd expect and the laser-etched pattern you might not, Thrilling Orange paint brightens up the trim behind the silver-accented grille. The effect powerfully emphasizes the latest evolution of a key BMW design element.

ABOUT THOSE HEADLIGHTS…

In person, I'm still not a fan of the headlights. I don't mind that the headlights aren't placed side-by-side the grille—as on almost every production BMW sold today except maybe one—but I'm not a fan of how small the headlights appear compared to the enormous dual-opening grille. If you see the Vision M Next at an auto show, judge it for yourself.

 VIEW 27 PHOTOS

LOVE THIS

Could you tell from the photos that the black on the lower side skirts is composed of recycled carbon fiber? Besides being a cool idea, the textured appearance this provides is subtle and effective.

WHEELY NICE

The rear wheels are one inch larger than the 21-inch fronts, and although it's possible that staggered look had some subconscious effect on my appreciation of the BMW concept's design, the more obvious orange accents on the rear wheels captivated me. Even though I'm still not sold on the "silk-matt" Cast Silver paint over Thrilling Orange accents, I like the idea of painting the rear wheels as a way to draw attention to the car's performance (BMW says the car can use rear-wheel drive or an EV-based all-wheel drive).

By: www.motortrend.com