Glowing Grilles Are Coming Back?
With Mercedes-Benz already offering illuminated badges as a factory option, we knew it was only a matter of time before BMW responded. According to Bimmerpost, dealerships will soon offer “Chrome Iconic Glow Kidney Grilles” as an option.
The accessory is exactly what it sounds like. BMW either looks to be trying to steal a bit of Mercedes’ thunder or this is a touching tribute to Mercury vehicles from the early 1990s. Obviously, we’re hoping it’s the latter scenario.
Of course, Bavaria’s setup is a bit more complicated that tucking a couple of bulbs behind some frosted plastic. Its grilles are still chrome in color and rely on embedded LEDs to produce illumination. While BMW notes that the accessory does provide some forward light, it frames the Glow Kidney Grille primarily as an inclusion to help complement the style and features of the vehicle.
Those interested in individualizing their Bimmer to the max need only spend $644. Considering the amount of tacky lighting you get for the money, it could be a better deal than Mercedes’ $450 illuminated star. Unfortunately, you’ll be outing yourself as someone who really wants the rest of the world to know what brand of car they’re driving. But that may be why you opted for the Benz or BMW in the first place.
Expect the trend to catch on among other premium manufacturers. However, if you can’t wait, there are loads of cheap aftermarket products that can do something similar with pretty much anything you’ve got sitting in your garage.
[Image: BMW]
Consumer advocate tracking industry trends, regulation, and the bitter-sweet nature of modern automotive tech. Research focused and gut driven.
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BMW, sponsored by JC Whitney!
Can't wait until the Duh sisters, Hon and Toyo, and their rebadged sisters A-Cure-Uh and Lexus follow suit and make sure we can see their hideous exteriors even on the darkest nights. Maybe they could then play an organ music tune that sounds like something Count Dracula might like.
Can we bring back those neon licence plate frames from the 90's too?
Extra credit: How much does this reduce range?