BMW, one of the world’s most successful premium carmakers, also boasts an excellent position in the all-wheel-drive market, a segment it first entered 30 years ago. Around one in three BMW cars sold around the world is now equipped with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW’s success in this segment has been driven not only by the ever-popular BMW X models but also by all-wheel-drive models based on the other model series, from the BMW 1 Series to the BMW 7 Series. Across these model series, a large choice of AWD models is offered in a wide range of engine versions. At the same time, BMW continues to refine this technology and take it in new directions. By offering BMW xDrive in combination with a hybrid drive and with a front-wheel-drive platform, the company has repeatedly demonstrated its proficiency in the all-wheel-drive field, proficiency that will secure BMW’s position at the forefront of this sector well into the future. Today, BMW offers more than 110 models – of either transmission type – with BMW xDrive in 12 different model series, as well as the plug-in hybrid BMW i8 sports car and the compact BMW 225xe with electrified all-wheel drive.

The focus from day one: traction and dynamics.
BMW’s first foray into the all-wheel-drive market came with the unveiling of the BMW 325i “Allrad” at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1985. From the outside, the newcomer didn’t immediately reveal its inner qualities, so its performance when the journalists took it out on the test track was even more of an eye-opener. This very first BMW all-wheel-drive system not only improved traction away from surfaced roads and in adverse weather conditions, but also made for more dynamic handling through corners. “The new BMW is the new champion when it comes to handling,” was the verdict of the testers from German car magazine Auto Zeitung not long after the first unveiling.

Today, the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system takes typical BMW driving dynamics to new levels. The current generation of this system is controlled by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) system, which ensures that xDrive always responds appropriately at the earliest possible moment, based on reliable sensing and monitoring of the current driving situation. The interventions may be performed either entirely by BMW xDrive, or by xDrive in combination with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Dynamic Performance Control (DPC). The resulting fast and precise control of drive power distribution ensures typical BMW handling characteristics even under extremely dynamic cornering.

The all-wheel-drive system is biased towards the typical BMW rear-wheel-drive characteristics. That is to say, on the all-wheel-drive models a greater share of the drive power is sent to the rear wheels, even under normal driving conditions. This maintains the typical BMW precise steering response, with virtually no torque steer. For crisp turn-in and high tracking stability, the latest-generation BMW xDrive system starts increasing the amount of power sent to the rear wheels as soon as the vehicle enters a corner, further enhancing the driving pleasure for which BMW is a byword.

BMW all-wheel-drive technology: continuous evolution since 1985.
The full-time all-wheel-drive system featured on the BMW 325i “Allrad” of 1985 split the drive power in a ratio of 37 to 63 per cent between the front and rear wheels. In response to wheel speed differences, visco locks in the transfer case and rear differential were capable of providing a virtually rigid connection between the front and rear wheels, in order to improve traction and stability. This model’s name was soon changed to BMW 325iX, and from 1988 it was offered in a “touring” version as well (lower-case spelling up to and including the E46 series).

1991: BMW 525iX.
Three years on, BMW introduced an all-wheel-drive model in the BMW 5 Series too. For the first time, the power split was now electronically controlled. The newly developed system featured multi-plate clutches that allowed the default 36:64 front-to-rear power split to be varied seamlessly and automatically in line with driving conditions. Initially a hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch was used at the rear axle, but this was later replaced by electronically controlled selective braking intervention. The system monitored the driving situation using wheel speed signals from the Anti-lock Braking System, supplemented by further information about brake status, engine speed and throttle valve position.

From the outset the all-wheel-drive system of the BMW 525iX was a class apart. The electronic control system delivered a very fast and precise response, resulting in safe, neutral handling characteristics even in difficult driving conditions, such as on wet roads or snow. In the BMW 5 Series, too, the first all-wheel-drive models were offered in both Sedan and touring versions.

1999: The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) opens a new chapter.
In the run-up to the new millennium, a highly innovative vehicle concept from BMW made its sensational debut. The BMW X5, the first Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), impressed customers with driving dynamics that were unmatched among other all-terrain vehicles of the time. The outstanding all-wheel-drive system played a big part in this. A planetary gear system split the drive power in a ratio of 38:62 per cent between the front and rear wheels, while electronic control systems such as DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ADB-X (Automatic Differential Brake) and HDC (Hill Descent Control) ensured the new BMW X5 was both sporty on the road and equipped to handle challenging conditions off the beaten track.

In the years following the successful launch of the SAV concept, there was no let-up in the fast pace of all-wheel-drive development at BMW. The next year, 2000, a model-specific version of the BMW X5’s all-wheel drive technology became available for the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series.

2003: BMW xDrive makes its debut in the BMW X3 and BMW X5.
Four years on from the debut of the BMW X5 in 1999, BMW kept up the momentum by launching the SAV concept in a further vehicle segment. The new BMW X3 was more compact than the BMW X5 and offered even more agile handling. It set new benchmarks and remained the only premium model in its class for years to come.

The newly developed BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which was introduced in the same year in both the BMW X3 and the BMW X5, soon extended BMW’s lead in the AWD segment. Based on an extremely fast-acting electronic multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, xDrive worked in tandem with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) to continuously adapt the drive power split to the current driving situation. In addition to wheel speed, for the first time the electronic control system also took into account Dynamic Stability Control data, for example about steering angle, accelerator position and lateral acceleration. This is what makes BMW xDrive the world’s first, and still only, “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system. Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, which only react when at least one wheel is already spinning, xDrive is able to detect a risk of oversteer or understeer at the very first signs, and proactively corrects this by redirecting the flow of drive power.

In the years that followed, the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system was fitted not only on the X models but also on the xDrive versions of the BMW 3 and 5 Series Sedan and Touring models. By the time the second generation of the BMW X3 was introduced in 2010, more than 600,000 units of this series had already been sold worldwide. A little earlier, sales of the BMW X5 – which entered its second generation in 2006 – had topped the one million mark.

2008: SAC with Dynamic Performance Control and hybrid drive.
With the two Sports Activity Vehicles now firmly established in their respective segments, in 2007 BMW went on to present the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the brand-new BMW X6 elevated the typical dynamic character of the BMW X models to a new level of intensity. For the first time, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system was combined with Dynamic Performance Control (DPC), which varies the drive power split between the rear wheels when cornering to ensure unrivalled agility and stability, even under sudden throttle changes or on overrun. In 2009, the BMW Active Hybrid X6 demonstrated a further perfect pairing – between BMW xDrive and hybrid propulsion. Meanwhile, in the same year, BMW M GmbH added two very special models to its range of high-performance sports cars. With an M-tuned BMW xDrive system, including Dynamic Performance Control, the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M boasted performance that was previously unknown in the all-wheel-drive market.

2009 also saw the arrival of a new X model, the BMW X1. For many years to come, the BMW X1 was destined to remain the only vehicle of its kind in the premium compact segment. Its intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, like that of the new BMW X3 (2010), was also combinable with Performance Control. This system selectively brakes the wheel on the inside of a turn while simultaneously increasing engine power, resulting in quick and precise turn-in to corners and taking the agile handling of both models to new levels.

BMW xDrive also available for other model series.
The steady advance of the BMW X models has been accompanied by an increase in the number of xDrive versions offered in the other BMW model series too. Designed to improve cornering agility and precision, BMW xDrive provides an enhanced driving experience and an optimal combination of dynamics and comfort. So it was only a matter of time before this intelligent drive technology made its debut in the BMW 7 Series as well, in 2009. In spring 2012, the first all-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible models were then offered in the sporty BMW 6 Series. BMW xDrive can also be specified on the current BMW 3 and 5 Series and, since 2013, on the Convertible, Coupe and Gran Coupe models of the new BMW 4 Series.

Driving progress ever forward.
BMW took things forward in the premium mid-sized segment with the launch of the BMW X4 in 2014. The new Sports Activity Coupe offers a unique blend of driving enjoyment, sophisticated style and contemporary practicality. It comes with BMW xDrive as standard and is available in a wide range of engine versions. In the same year, BMW also presented the third generation of the BMW X5, the second generation of the BMW X6, and M Sport versions of both models. BMW xDrive also made its debut in the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This was a debut with a difference, being the first time BMW had combined its intelligent all-wheel-drive system with an all-new front-wheel-drive format.

With the BMW i8, unveiled in 2014, the BMW Group took a bold new step in new directions – which also extended to the all-wheel-drive system. This 2+2-seater sports model is powered by a highly advanced plug-in hybrid drive system that pairs an internal combustion engine driving the rear wheels with a high-performance electric motor driving the front wheels.

Focused on the future: BMW xDrive meets BMW eDrive.
BMW’s latest all-wheel-drive models bring technology advances that are firmly focused on the future of mobility. The BMW i8 was followed by the international launch of the first production plug-in hybrid model from the BMW core brand: the BMW X5 xDrive40e. Thanks to full-time BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive and eDrive BMW EfficientDynamics technology, this Sports Activity Vehicle mates thrilling and effortless sporty performance with outstanding efficiency. Intelligent hybrid power management synchronises the operation of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor to maximise efficiency at all times, while also responding perfectly to the driver’s demands. The drive from the two power units is transferred to the road via the full-time BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

BMW 7 Series: Integral Active Steering combinable with BMW xDrive.
In September 2015, the sixth generation of the BMW 7 Series makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). This high-end BMW luxury model pioneers groundbreaking innovations on all fronts, and will be available with BMW xDrive from its market launch in October. The new luxury sedan will also be the first model to allow intelligent all-wheel-drive to be combined with Integral Active Steering – that is to say with passively steering rear wheels.

Please find attached the complete press kit for download.

 Richmond Hill, ON. BMW today announced the arrival of the enhanced, 2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle®. In 2003 BMW founded the mid-size SAV segment with the launch of the original BMW X3. Since 2003, the BMW X3 has been a paragon of sporty dynamics, premium ambience and robust agility – accumulating sales of more than one million units worldwide in the process. The second-generation BMW X3 has made a compelling case for itself since its introduction in 2010, boasting the best interior and cargo measurements and the greatest versatility in its class.

Now, the new BMW X3 is set to build on this leadership with the addition of a  BMW Advanced Diesel model to the X3 lineup, further enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions. 

 The exterior and interior design of the new BMW X3 receive stylistic revisions that add further depth to the vehicle’s practicality, while updates to other details promise to impress the X3 customer.

The new BMW X3 will go on sale in spring of 2014 as a 2015 model. The all-new X3 xDrive 28d will debut with an MSRP of $45,000,  while the X3 xDrive 28i xDrive and the top-of-the-line

X3 xDrive35i will have MSRPs of, respectively, $43,300 and $48,900.

 Dynamic appearance and exclusive ambience.

The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin-circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – all of which shine a figurative spotlight on the signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a center console with automatic climate control system in a high-gloss black-panel display, and new cup holders with a sliding cover for the center console underline the vehicle’s premium appearance. New exterior colors, upholstery designs, interior trim and light-alloy wheels enable even more refined individualization. The new xLine allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. And the Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate further enhances the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.

  New BMW Advanced Diesel engine

The new BMW X3 is available from launch with a choice of one diesel and two gasoline engines, with outputs ranging from 181 hp to 300 hp. The state-of-the-art engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology guarantee outstanding performance combined with low fuel consumption.

The new X3 xDrive28d will feature BMW’s 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine. It has an output of 181 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, available from 1,750 rpm, and will be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The X3 xDrive28d will accelerate from 0 –100 km/h in just over eight seconds. BMW Advanced Diesel technology includes Selective Catalyst Reduction to make the new X3 a clean diesel.

The new BMW X3 advances the company’s commitment to the integration of driver, vehicle and outside world, an area in which BMW is an undisputed leader. Among the outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the BMW X3 are the iDrive controller with touchpad functionality  (for text input using finger movements), Parking Assistant, the full-color BMW Head-Up Display,  and Active Driving Assistant with ACC Stop & Go, including Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, and City Collision Mitigation.

Impressive new standard features.

The new BMW X3 now offers a number of new standard features for the Canadian market previously not found on the outgoing model enhancing the safety, functionality and appearance of the vehicle.  Bi-xenon headlights with dual LED daytime running lights replace halogen bulbs as the standard front headlight unit providing improved light distribution and heightened visual appeal.  The standard sound system has been upgraded to the Hi-fi Loudspeaker System featuring 9 speakers with 205 watts on tap.  Finally, additional practicality has been added with the through-load system, which adds 40:20:40 split folding seats to the rear bench and cupholders to the rear centre armrest

Design and functionality: Powerful appearance and maximum versatility.

The design language of the new BMW X3 underlines the leading role it has traditionally occupied in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle segment. Taking its cue from its predecessor, the new BMW X3 blends exclusivity and dynamic appeal and couples it with impressive versatility. The new model is immediately identifiable as a member of the successful BMW X family and cuts an even more impressive figure on the road. Its design showcases an SAV that will carry out everyday tasks with consummate ease and do so while delivering unbeatable driving pleasure.

Striking presence.

Aside from its length, which has grown by a single centimeter, the new BMW X3 has the same compact, usable dimensions of its successful predecessor. However, the new BMW X3 comes with a host of exclusive details. At the front end, for example, the newly designed twin circular headlights stand out immediately. They can also be ordered in full-LED specification as an option and, like the LED front fog lights, lend even greater expression to the premium profile of the BMW X3. The characteristic, more strikingly-presented BMW kidney grille has an even sharper visual impact with its new surround, and powerful, newly designed front and rear bumpers highlight the poised and assured appearance of the new BMW X3. The LED turn signal indicators are now housed in the new exterior mirrors, while four new exterior paint shades and four newly styled light-alloy wheel variants broaden the scope for individualization.

Exclusivity and a high level of perceived quality in the interior.

The new X3 leads the way in its segment in terms of both interior spaciousness and rear load capacity (from 550-1600 litres). The interior is a compelling proposition with its carefully selected, exquisite materials. Understated chrome applications, the center console with automatic climate control system in a high-gloss black-panel look, and wood trim with chrome accents contribute further to the high-quality surroundings. Adding the final touches to the premium ambience are new cup holders in the center console with a sliding cover and the standard-fitted sport leather steering wheel. Customers can also choose from four new upholstery colors and four new interior trims.

xLine and M Sport offer boundless individualization.

The high-quality material and color concept shines the spotlight on the premium profile of the new BMW X3. xLine, which lends even further emphasis to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the X3, sees BMW expanding the scope for individualization. xLine can be identified from the outside by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, satin aluminum side cladding and bars in the air intakes, and simulated under guards at the front and rear. It also allows customers to choose from additional leather upholstery variants, trim options and includes 19-inch light-alloy wheels.

The superb dynamic qualities of the new BMW X3 can be showcased to even greater effect by specifying M Sport, with the M aerodynamic package and High-gloss Shadow Line trim maximizing the vehicle’s presence on the road. In addition, customers can choose from six paint finishes and two exclusive light-alloy wheel options in 19 and 20-inch format. In the cockpit, Anthracite roof liner and sports seats in various leather upholstery variants intensify the sporting theme. Technical highlights include the eight-speed sport automatic transmission, sport steering and suspension settings tuned to deliver even sharper dynamic performance.

Enhancing everyday functionality.

The BMW X3 also builds further on its segment-leading status when it comes to everyday usability and versatility. All BMW X3 models are fitted with a 6.5” iDrive display and iDrive Controller. BMW Assist eCall, meanwhile, uses an integrated telephone unit to summon rapid assistance. A range of other innovative options adds further to the functionality of the new X3. The Smart Opener, for instance, makes accessing the load compartment much easier; a short movement of the foot below the rear bumper causes it to open or close the tailgate automatically. A storage package including a reversible floor section, folding box, partition elements and a range of different luggage nets allows objects of any kind to be stowed away easily, safely and tidily, and the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat enables maximum flexibility. Elsewhere, the Hi-Fi Sound System Professional from Harman Kardon promises audio pleasure for the new BMW X3.

Dynamic and economical engines.

The high-revving character for which BMW is renowned, plus excellent power delivery, compelling refinement and impressive efficiency, are also stand-out features of the cutting-edge gasoline engines available for the new BMW X3. Boasting High Precision Direct Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing, the gasoline engines make a convincing case for themselves with outstanding dynamics yet incredibly low fuel consumption and emissions. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit in the X3 xDrive28i, meanwhile, develops 241 hp and peak torque of 258 lb-ft. Fitted with the eight-speed automatic transmission, the X3 xDrive28i sprints from rest to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, The new BMW X3 xDrive35i also meets the highest dynamic standards. Its 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line engine develops 300hp and produces maximum torque of 300 lb-ft, which is on tap between 1,300 rpm and 5,000 rpm.

Third-generation  xDrive all-wheel drive.

The intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system delivers optimum traction, need-based power distribution, and further improved dynamics and driving safety. A new xDrive status display with three-dimensional graphics in the Control Display keeps the driver informed of the vehicle’s body roll and pitch. On vehicles equipped with a navigation system, a compass display is also shown in the instrument cluster.

Now in its Third Generation, BMW xDrive incorporates flexibility, responsiveness, and excellent handling characteristics. The system marks a significant evolution in xDrive capabilities, which has always depended upon networking the Dynamic Stability Control with the all-wheel drive system.  With the overall Integrated Chassis Management system, all three control circuits work in parallel.  This refined interaction achieves even quicker reactions to changing driving conditions and enhances xDrive’s already outstanding handling dynamics.

BMW xDrive is unique in design and construction. In normal conditions, driving torque is always transmitted to the rear wheels, and most of the time to all four wheels.  Normal torque split is 80% rear/20% front. The portion of torque transmitted to the front wheels is controlled by a multi-disc clutch that can be fully open, fully engaged or at any level of partial engagement in between.  The torque split between rear and front wheels is thus steplessly variable. Engagement pressure on the multi-disc clutch is directed by an electronic control system in response to actual road and driving conditions. This gives xDrive a dynamic ability that is unparalleled by other all-wheel drive systems.

xDrive does more than just optimize traction; it can also enhance both agility and stability on grippy as well as slippery road surfaces.  Using the same type of logic that Dynamic Stability Control employs to recognize and correct for excessive over- or understeer, xDrive adjusts the front/rear torque split to avoid these tendencies.  If the system senses undesirable oversteer, it closes the multi-disc clutch completely, sending the maximum possible torque to the front wheels.  In the case of excess understeer, xDrive opens the clutch completely, sending no driving torque to the front wheels. The Third Generation of BMW xDrive truly raises the bar for all-wheel drive systems in both passenger cars and sports activity vehicles.

Appearing yet again in the newest generation of xDrive is BMW’s Hill Descent Control. Debuting in 2000 original BMW X5, Hill Descent Control made it possible to control and steer the vehicle in downright dangerous and slippery conditions without even using the brake pedal. When activated, Hill Descent individually applies the brakes where needed to prevent slippage and increased speed. The driver simply needs to set the desired speed to descend with (8-25 km/h), release the brake and gas pedals, and navigate down the hill. Hill Descent control comes standard on all xDrive equipped models.

8-speed automatic transmission.

Many new BMW models feature an 8-speed automatic transmission, which brings smooth shifting, sportiness and efficiency to new levels of perfection. Compared to the 6-speed automatic offered in past BMW models, the 8-speed has “taller” cruising gears that make a significant contribution to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, as well as quietness. Its wider spread of ratios from lowest to highest gear enhances acceleration and response across the range of driving speeds. The revolutionary design allows for direct shifts from cruising gears to acceleration gears.

This new automatic’s attributes have been achieved via an innovative concept that provides the two additional ratios (7 and 8) with no increase in bulk or weight. In an arrangement never before employed in an 8-speed automatic, four planetary gear sets and five clutch packs are controlled in a way that no more than two of the five clutch packs are freewheeling at any given time. The modest increase in the number of mechanical elements allows the new transmission to achieve unusually high efficiency: the so-called “gearing efficiency” is higher than 98% in all eight gears. In 6th gear, it’s highest of all because that is direct drive, with no gearing reduction at all. Combine this with reduced friction and the ability to keep the torque converter “locked up” more of the total driving time, and the transmission becomes very much a part of the overall BMW Efficient Dynamics concept.

The wider spread of ratios allows the engine to run at lower speeds, often in the “tallest” gear, 8th. Yet even with this wider spread, the steps between adjacent gears are reduced; in turn this means a stronger, smoother flow of power during acceleration. And for the same reason, faster shifts are a further benefit because only one clutch pack is disengaged to shift up or down by one or two gears. On the other hand, downshifting more than two gears is accomplished as a direct shift. For example, a downshift from 8th to 2nd gear is made with only one clutch pack disengagement, and thus occurs without stepping down through the intermediate gears. So, at one instant the driver can be enjoying the quiet, fuel-efficient low rpm of 8th gear, and in the next instant getting maximum acceleration.

On the new BMW X3, a Sport Automatic transmission option with shift paddles is also available in conjunction with M Sport or as a stand-alone option.

Coasting function and ECO PRO mode reduce fuel consumption.

Other features contributing to the economical running of the new BMW X3 are the ECO PRO mode selectable via the Driving Experience Control switch and the coasting function of the eight-speed automatic gearbox, which disengages the powertrain at speeds of (approx. 50–160 km/h) when the driver takes his foot off the accelerator.

Safety, comfort and infotainment.

The new BMW X3 sees BMW ConnectedDrive providing further evidence of its groundbreaking role in the link-up of the driver, vehicle and outside world. Among the outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the new BMW X3 is the latest, enhanced-capability generation of the Navigation system, complete with ECO PRO route guidance and an iDrive Controller with integrated touchpad. The touchpad allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs – a navigation destination, for example. Another highlight is the full-color Head-Up Display, which projects all important driving information and the assistance systems displays into the driver’s field of view. Among the other systems available as an option to further enhance safety is Driving Assistant Plus with Active Cruise Control Stop & Go, which includes features such as Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, and City Collision Mitigation.. Aiding comfort, meanwhile, is the Parking Assistant, which automatically steers the vehicle into parking spaces parallel to the road. BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps also make mobility services and smartphone applications available inside the vehicle via the central Control Display, and innovations such as the Concierge Services and ARTTI (Advanced Real Time Traffic Information) system can also be accessed.