[Germanauto]

It's a sign of the times. Society and the younger generations are more than ever obsessed with "making a statement" and "individuality" no matter how tasteless it is. The days of handsome but restrained are gone. It's all about being loud and seeking attention.

Additionally, CUVs are dominating the market so in order for sedans to survive, they really need to offer some sort of proposition over comparable CUVs. Styling is one of those areas they are really trying to emphasize. Toyota Honda Kia Hyundai etc. have done the same thing with their sedans.

The Tesla Model 3's success is another factor. BMW is trying to capitalize on the fact that the Model 3 is a slightly above average looking commuter car that everybody has now. It doesn't evoke emotion in the way the new M3/4 do. The parking lot at my work place is filled with the Model 3's of colleagues. It has become an ordinary looking car that nobody looks at twice.