What is BMW Individual?

I'm in the process of ordering either a new GC or 7er. I've owned several BMW's but never a new one, so I've never done a "Build your own" or ordered one the way I wanted it...so...

Can someone give me a rundown of what "BMW Individual" is, how they work, etc??

BMW Individual is a an internal customising division. There are a very wide range of paints and interior options to choose from. They also can do special requests.

The US appears to be limited to some preset packages, but there have been exceptions.


http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Conte...BMWIndividual/

The full BMW Individual catalogue is available in the US--you just need access to a good client advisor (CA) who knows how the ordering process works. (There are a few exceptions like not being able to get the high-end leathers on some models, for obscure reasons...but for the most part it's all possible.) BMW NA prominently offers a few "standard" Individual compositions and options on the web configurator for the higher-end models, because the take rate is better as you go up the scale. Other options, other compositions, and any Individual equipment on other models must go through the special-order process, which requires approval by BMW AG, BMW NA and the owner of the dealership.

The biggest hurdle in the process is getting a CA who trusts you (and vice versa) to go through with the deal. BMW NA does not approve all requests so you may need someone to go to bat for you. Special-ordered cars, including Individual equipment outside of BMW NA's official offerings, cannot be cancelled by the dealer once accepted by BMW AG. So if you walk away from the deal, they're left holding the bag...some won't take the risk.

The main offerings in the stock Individual catalogue are a selection of distinctive and striking paint colors, exotic wood trims and Merino leather upholstery in several exclusive colors. There are also odds and ends such as an anthracite (black) headliner, in-car entertainment (including an astounding bespoke audio system), wheels, steering wheels and so on. (The high-gloss black "Shadowline" exterior trim on certain US models is actually an Individual option.) Beyond those is the full Individual custom treatment, where you tell BMW what materials & colors you want and they either offer you a quote or turn you down flat. Pricing for this route is firmly in "if you have to ask" territory.

Has anyone ordered an individual wood trim that is not listed on that series car. I.E. Eucalyptus wood trim for a 535i? Thanks

Originally Posted by bradshawsa

Has anyone ordered an individual wood trim that is not listed on that series car. I.E. Eucalyptus wood trim for a 535i? Thanks

Judging by the silence it appears not....

FYI, that would be considered a custom trim for which you'd have to request a quote and approval. If a given veneer is not offered on a particular Series you're basically looking at a one-off custom job to manufacture the trim pieces.

Originally Posted by bradshawsa

Has anyone ordered an individual wood trim that is not listed on that series car. I.E. Eucalyptus wood trim for a 535i? Thanks

I recently read an article somewhere (maybe a thread or post here) about some guy in Hawaii who took delivery on a 7 Series a few years ago with Hawaiian Koa wood trim, along with a specially matched leather interior and special exterior paint.

Originally Posted by SD Z4MR

I recently read an article somewhere (maybe a thread or post here) about some guy in Hawaii who took delivery on a 7 Series a few years ago with Hawaiian Koa wood trim, along with a specially matched leather interior and special exterior paint.

http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/10/19/ve..******-metallic/

Originally Posted by TeeZee

http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/10/19/ve..******-metallic/

Just wow! I love that BMW would do a custom job and appreciate the uniqueness and all but I just hate the color choices! Why, oh why???