[HermesRider]

Nods to Bangle---he did an exceptional job. As well, I am very fond of van Hooydonk. I read the interview with him in Bimmer magazine Feb 2009; he is a very optimistic and complimentary designer. I don't believe the design of BMW will become more conservative now, in fact I believe it will become more progressive. After all, van Hooydonk has been with BMW for many years, and his design elements are responsible for many a modern Bimmer.... compare the 6er with van Hooydonk's Z9 Gran Turismo concept car. Look familiar? Bottom line---he is quite a radical sort, so I expect more revolutionary and possibly controversial designs to emerge from BMW in the next 5 years.