I've been looking more and more carefully at the '07 spyshot photos and I'm starting to think, although the current design is iconic with its "bulldog" face, that the new '07 design styling does have certain desirable aspects.

It is a bit more "bland," which is a bit disappointing for such a unique car. What's interesting is how the front hood apex is more centered on the top of the grill, rather than the hood scoop (like on the current model). But then above that is a more prominent protrusion for the hood scoop. In general the front seems much more smoothed out, perhaps even more "refined" and definitely more streamlined.

It's starting to look like an aston martin in the front (for good and for bad). This comes from the hood "bulge" being smoother and flowing more directly from that larger, upside-down trapezoid grill.

I'm definitely glad I ordered an '06, but I feel that the new design might eventually grow on me - I think it has potential. I know the BMW designers struggled a lot with this one - what with the impact requirements - and I think they did a commendable job.

I some ways, it's kind of like the older 911 styling vs the late 90's/ early 00's styling. What's interesting, though, is that there was so much backlash to that new style that the new '06 is again back more to its roots

 

I think it's too early to make any kind of design analysis. The car hasn't even been shown without the plastic on it. I'm suspending judgement until I can see the real thing.
John

 

Good point. But you can see the general shape it's taking.