[celsdogg]

Originally Posted by Fuller

It's not affordability as much as this forum is comprised of mostly driving enthusiasts, at varying levels. The membership is more interested in the smaller, more performance oriented models like 2, 3, and 4 series, as well as m2, 3, and 4. These types of cars generally don't have big, shiny grills.

Those customers more inclined toward large, luxury cars tolerate, and probably enjoy the big, shiny grills. If you look at the flagship models for most luxury brands, they usually sport a big, gaudy grill and hood ornament. Given that, the enormous chrome grill doesn't seem so out of place on the 7 series and large suv models.

Also consider that emerging markets exert significant influence over design cues, and other aspects of the product line as well. The growth realized from selling more 7 series, x7, and whatever in China outweighs negative feedback from the shrinking enthusiast market - most of which aren't very interested in the x7 or 7 series anyway.

Regardless, it's still a fun thread.

great take! the target demographic for this (and other less "enthusiast" models) aren't the type of people to get on the internet and talk about cars all day!