•Oportunidade antecipada para encomendar o BMW i3 50 xDrive.

•Segundo modelo da Neue Klasse.

•Os modelos da Neue Klasse são sinónimo de progresso tecnológico, sistemas de propulsão potentes, elevada autonomia e tempos de carregamento reduzidos.

•O “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” inclui um equipamento completo e amplas possibilidades de personalização.

• Preços atrativos para o BMW i3 50 xDrive no modelo base (65 500 euros) e para o “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” (74 000 euros)

Munique. A BMW inicia uma nova e emocionante era no prazer de condução com o seu segundo modelo da Neue Klasse - o novo BMW i3. Os clientes podem fazer as suas encomendas do BMW i3 50 xDrive totalmente elétrico na versão “First Edition” antes do lançamento oficial no mercado, exclusivamente nos concessionários BMW.

Jochen Goller, Membro do Board of Management of BMW AG, Customer, Brands, Sales, afirma: “O novo BMW i3 é um automóvel revolucionário para nós. Sendo um modelo totalmente elétrico, irá competir num segmento de grande volume e é, por isso, extremamente significativo para o BMW Group. Ao mesmo tempo, já podemos constatar, pelo elevado nível de interesse neste modelo, que será muito bem recebido pelos nossos clientes. O início das encomendas a 18 de junho na versão “First Edition” – antes do lançamento oficial no mercado – constitui um importante passo neste sentido.”

O novo BMW i3 – o segundo modelo da Neue Klasse a ser lançado – também personifica o salto tecnológico dado pela marca. A tecnologia BMW eDrive de sexta geração altamente eficiente, alia-se ao novo BMW Panoramic iDrive e ao “Heart of Joy” para elevar o “Sheer Driving Pleasure” a um patamar totalmente novo. A experiência de condução assistida entra também numa nova era com o BMW Symbiotic Drive. Além disso, o BMW i3 traz uma interpretação moderna das características de design emblemáticas de uma berlina BMW.

Os clientes poderão configurar o seu novo “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” com uma série de equipamentos adicionais para complementar o já extenso equipamento de série do veículo. Isto inclui o Pack Desportivo M, o Pack exterior BMW Iconic Glow e o BMW 3D Head-Up Display. O “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” pode ser encomendado pelo preço de 74 000,00 EUR (WLTP, combinado [EnVKV]: consumo de energia 16,1–13,5 kWh/100 km; emissões de CO₂: 0 g/km; classe de CO₂ A) e oferece uma autonomia de 758 – 906 km. Com a sua tecnologia de 800 V, o sistema BMW eDrive de sexta geração do BMW i3 50 xDrive permite uma potência máxima de carregamento de até 400 kW. Após dez minutos de carregamento em corrente contínua, isto traduz-se em 423 km de autonomia.

No lançamento oficial no mercado, no outono de 2026, o BMW i3 50 xDrive (WLTP, combinado [EnVKV]: consumo de energia 16,1 – 13,4 kWh/100 km; emissões de CO₂: 0 g/km; classe de CO₂ A), na versão de série e com uma autonomia de até 912 km estará disponível ao preço de 65 500,00 EUR.

Mike Reichelt, Head of Neue Klasse BMW, explica: “O BMW Série 3 tem sido um ícone da nossa marca há sete gerações e, por conseguinte, há mais de cinco décadas. Personifica o puro prazer de condução, a inovação e o design intemporal. Com o Neue Klasse e o seu conjunto tecnológico, estamos literalmente a saltar uma geração de veículos. Este é o ADN da nossa berlina desportiva num conceito de veículo completamente novo, à medida que escrevemos o próximo capítulo da história de sucesso do BMW Série 3.”

O BMW i3 exemplifica a nova linguagem de design da BMW: centrada no essencial, num estilo moderno e inconfundível.
Com o seu design de 2.5 volumes, o novo BMW i3 oferece uma interpretação moderna das proporções características de uma berlina desportiva BMW – sendo imediatamente reconhecível como um BMW Série 3. A sua silhueta é definida por uma longa distância entre eixos, uma superfície envidraçada recuada e pequenas saliências. Familiar, mas também nova, é a frente com quatro faróis, uma assinatura típica da marca. A linguagem de design “Neue Klasse” orienta a nova interpretação da icónica zona dianteira. A dupla grelha BMW - tal como os seus faróis - fundem-se numa assinatura luminosa inovadora, tornando-a numa peça de design única. Os faróis traseiros, com a sua horizontalidade acentuada, apresentam a forma abstrata de um “L”. As jantes realçam a postura desportiva do novo BMW i3.

Elevando o foco no condutor a um novo patamar.
Os interiores modernos e dinâmicos caracterizam a linguagem de design “Neue Klasse”: O habitáculo espaçoso do novo BMW i3 permite-lhe explorar todo o potencial de uma arquitetura de veículo totalmente orientada para a mobilidade elétrica.
O BMW Panoramic iDrive com o Sistema Operativo BMW X utiliza um ecrã e um sistema operativo exclusivos numa nova dimensão orientada para o condutor. No seu cerne está o BMW Panoramic Vision, que projeta conteúdos ao longo de toda a largura da parte inferior do pára-brisas. A lógica de funcionamento multimodal do BMW Panoramic iDrive combina interações táteis, hápticas e por voz. O BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant desempenha aqui um papel fundamental, permitindo que inúmeras funções do veículo, a introdução de destinos de navegação e os conteúdos multimédia sejam controlados através de uma linguagem fluída.

O BMW i3 dá um salto tecnológico com o sistema de propulsão elétrica de sexta geração.
O primeiro BMW Série 3 totalmente elétrico possui um motor elétrico no eixo dianteiro e outro no eixo traseiro, que, em conjunto, produzem uma potência total de 345 kW/469 cv. O binário máximo é de 645 Nm. O BMW i3 50 xDrive acelera dos 0 aos 100 km/h em 4,7 segundos. O novo “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” apresenta motores e valores de desempenho idênticos.
No novo BMW i3, a tecnologia BMW eDrive de sexta geração, altamente eficiente, une forças com o supercomputador “Heart of Joy” e o sistema de condução BMW Dynamic Performance Control. Em conjunto, conferem ao veículo características de condução seguras e extremamente precisas. O “Heart of Joy” responde dez vezes mais rápido do que os sistemas anteriores e reduz o número de intervenções de controlo necessárias. O resultado eleva o “Sheer Driving Pleasure” a um patamar totalmente novo. A experiência de condução assistida no BMW i3 entra igualmente numa nova dimensão com o BMW Symbiotic Drive.
A função Soft Stop garante a travagem mais suave da história da BMW. O controlo preciso dos motores elétricos leva a berlina totalmente elétrica a uma paragem impercetivelmente suave, sem qualquer solavanco nem ruídos de travagem.
No que diz respeito às tecnologias de assistência ao condutor no novo BMW i3, o BMW Symbiotic Drive permite uma interação perfeita entre as funções de assistência e o comportamento de condução. Com os sistemas de assistência à condução ativos, o condutor pode responder às diversas situações - acelerando, virando o volante ou travando - sem desativar o sistema de assistência relevante durante o processo. O Assistente em autoestrada (opcional) permite uma condução assistida na autoestrada “hands-free” até 130 km/h com mudanças de faixa automatizadas após confirmação por sinal visual.

Maior autonomia, tempos de carregamento mais curtos.
Outra característica do salto tecnológico dado pelo novo BMW i3 é a bateria de alta tensão com novas células cilíndricas que oferecem uma capacidade de 108,7 kWh. O design “pack-to-open-body” do compartimento da bateria transforma esta última numa parte estrutural do novo BMW i3.
O “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” tem uma autonomia de até 906 quilómetros (de acordo com o ciclo de testes WLTP) e, por isso, oferece uma elevada capacidade de percorrer longas distâncias, combinada com tempos de carregamento drasticamente reduzidos, graças à tecnologia de 800 V. As taxas de carregamento em corrente contínua (CC) de até 400 kW permitem que o BMW i3 50 xDrive carregue, em dez minutos, energia suficiente num ponto de carregamento rápido de CC para uma autonomia de até 423 km (de acordo com a norma ISO 12906 no ciclo WLTP).

O equipamento de série do “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” inclui o Pack Desportivo M Sport e o Pack exterior BMW Iconic Glow.
O extenso equipamento de série do BMW i3 50 xDrive inclui o Panoramic Vision, o Driving Assistant Plus, o Comfort Access, a BMW Digital Key Plus e bancos dianteiros elétricos e aquecidos. Uma característica de destaque do “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” é o Pack Desportivo M. Este inclui o Pack M exterior, travões M Sport azuis e projeção do logótipo M nos espelhos retrovisores exteriores, complementados no interior do veículo pelo design exclusivo do interior BMW M em Veganza e M PerformTex Black (estando disponíveis outras variantes de estofos). O Pack Desportivo M torna evidente à primeira vista, o potencial dinâmico da nova berlina totalmente elétrica.

As especificações do “First Edition” incluem também o Pack exterior BMW Iconic Glow, que realça a profundidade visual das icónicas grelhas da BMW com uma iluminação de contorno precisa. Outra característica deste pacote é uma animação de boas-vindas e despedida, que apresenta três efeitos de luz visualmente impressionantes. O Pack exterior BMW Iconic Glow permite personalizar e adaptar estes efeitos ao gosto pessoal de cada cliente.

Outros destaques do interior incluem bancos multifunções, o BMW 3D Head-Up Display e o sistema de som HiFi Harman Kardon.
O interior do “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” inclui uma série de opcionais de destaque: Entre estes contam-se os bancos dianteiros multifunções com regulação elétrica, controlo de climatização de três zonas automático, vidros com proteção solar e o volante aquecido.
O BMW 3D Head-Up Display complementa o ecrã e o sistema operativo do novo BMW i3, estando integrado acima do BMW Panoramic Vision. Além disso, o BMW 3D Head-Up Display projeta conteúdos selecionados exclusivamente na linha de visão do condutor. Isto permite uma perceção espacial extremamente precisa – como por exemplo, instruções de navegação.
O sistema de som HiFi Harman Kardon com suporte para Dolby Atmos proporciona um nível de qualidade de som particularmente elevado ao “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition”.

O funcionamento automático da porta da bagageira, incluindo o Smart Opener, proporciona um acesso extremamente fácil ao compartimento de carga. O toque final nas especificações do “First Edition” é o Carregamento rápido AC, que aumenta a potência de carregamento CA de 11 para 22 kW.

Opcionais no novo “BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition”.
O cliente pode dar um toque ainda mais pessoal ao seu “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition” com a ajuda de equipamentos opcionais específicos do modelo. Uma opção é o teto de vidro panorâmico opcional, com vidros de conforto climático, cria uma sensação de espaço banhado pela luz. Também é possível encomendar um gancho de reboque de rotação elétrica.

A extensa oferta de entretenimento disponível através do BMW Connected Drive permite aos clientes especificar funções adicionais opcionais do BMW Maps, o Security Assistant e um pacote de dados como parte do BMW Digital Premium.
No que diz respeito a funções de condução e estacionamento, o cliente pode escolher ainda mais opções para o “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition”: A gama de opcionais concebidas para aumentar a segurança e o conforto inclui o Assistente de estacionamento Plus e Professional, bem como o Assistente de autoestrada.

Ampla gama de opcionais em matéria de cores exteriores, jantes, acabamentos interiores e volantes.

Estão disponíveis um total de seis acabamentos de pintura exterior para o “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition”. Entre estes encontra-se a exclusiva tonalidade metálica M Le Castellet Blue.
A gama de jantes compreende três modelos aerodinâmicos e uma variante BMW Individual: os clientes podem escolher entre jantes de 19 e 20 polegadas.
No que diz respeito ao interior do novo “BMW i3 50 xDrive as First Edition”, o design de interiores “Contemporary” e “BMW M” permitem a escolha de várias combinações de cores. Além disso, a gama de volantes oferece ainda mais possibilidades de personalização, estando disponíveis por encomenda - o volante desportivo opcional, o volante M e o volante BMW Individual (apenas em combinação com o design de interiores “Contemporary” bicolor Digital White).

Para mais informações, por favor contactar:

Corporate Communications
BMW Group Portugal
João Trincheiras, Corporate Communications Director
E-mail: Joao.Trincheiras@bmw.pt

Sobre o BMW Group
Com as suas quatro marcas BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce e BMW Motorrad, o BMW Group é o líder mundial no fabrico de automóveis e motociclos premium, prestando igualmente serviços financeiros de alta qualidade. A rede de produção do BMW Group inclui mais de 30 unidades de produção em todo o mundo; a empresa tem uma rede global de vendas em mais de 140 países. Em 2025, o BMW Group vendeu mais de 2.46 milhões de veículos de passageiros e mais de 202.500 motociclos em todo o mundo. O lucro antes de impostos no exercício de 2025 foi de 10.2 mil milhões de euros, sobre receitas no valor de 135.4 mil milhões de euros. A 31 de dezembro de 2025, o BMW Group tinha um efetivo de 154.540 colaboradores. O sucesso do BMW Group tem sido, desde sempre, construído numa ótica de longo prazo e assente numa conduta responsável. A Sustentabilidade é um elemento-chave da estratégia corporativa do BMW Group e abrange todos os produtos da cadeia de valores, desde a produção até ao fim de utilização de todos os seus produtos.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

O BMW Série 3 é a essência da marca BMW: durante cinco décadas, este ícone tem representado o prazer de condução desportivo, um design inconfundível e uma evolução consistente.

O novo BMW i3 totalmente elétrico reforça o legado e o carácter familiar do Série 3, com características únicas adicionais. Como segundo modelo da geração Neue Klasse, representa um salto tecnológico para uma nova era, sendo o BMW i3 50 xDrive a primeira motorização a ser lançada no mercado.

Potência e autonomia revolucionárias

O BMW i3 50 xDrive está equipado com a sexta geração da tecnologia BMW eDrive, que inclui dois motores eléctricos de alta eficiência (EESM e ASM) nos eixos dianteiro e traseiro, com uma potência combinada de 345 kW (469 cv) e um binário de 645 Nm (valores provisórios). Esta configuração permite uma autonomia de até 900 km¹ (em ciclo WLTP). O sistema de carregamento rápido DC suporta até 400 kW, possibilitando carregar até 400 km em apenas 10 minutos.² 

Design - O núcleo da marca reinterpretado: moderno, intemporal e inconfundível

O novo BMW i3 incorpora a linguagem de design Neue Klasse com uma estrutura moderna 2.5-box, proporções desportivas e linhas precisas. A dianteira apresenta a icónica grelha da BMW, agora com uma assinatura luminosa inovadora. Como opcional, o pacote Iconic Glow oferece três animações de iluminação personalizáveis (Balanced, Relaxed e Excited), realçando o efeito de profundidade visual da grelha. Na secção traseira destacam-se os faróis horizontais tridimensionais e um difusor que reforça as características dinâmicas do veículo.

Na estreia no mercado do novo BMW i3 estarão disponíveis onze cores exteriores diferentes, com acabamentos na cor solid, frozen e metálica. A nova cor metálica M Le Castellet Blue é exclusiva da gama.

O interior alia espaço, modernidade e foco absoluto no condutor, numa interação harmoniosa entre geometria, luz e som. Com o novo BMW Panoramic iDrive, teto panorâmico opcional com vidro climate Comfort, bancos desportivos M, novas jantes aerodinâmicas M de 21 polegadas, materiais sustentáveis e acabamentos sofisticados - o novo BMW i3 eleva a experiência de condução a um novo patamar.

Experiência digital integrada e intuitiva

Com o BMW Panoramic iDrive, o BMW i3 apresenta um sistema operativo revolucionário que projeta informações no pára-brisas. Este sistema, que inclui o BMW Panoramic Vision e o BMW 3D Head-Up Display opcional, foi desenvolvido com o contributo português da Critical TechWorks ³, e confere ao novo BMW i3 uma experiência digital imersiva e personalizada onde as funcionalidades de realidade aumentada são totalmente focadas no condutor.

O volante multifuncional com tecnologia Shy Tech garante controlo intuitivo sem distrações, enquanto o assistente pessoal inteligente BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, agora com tecnologia de modelo de linguagem avançada (LLM) integrada à Alexa+³, permite comandos de voz naturais e personalizados. Esta tecnologia será implementada gradualmente em todos os modelos com o BMW Operating System 9 e X, ainda que não tenha data prevista para integração no mercado nacional.

Tecnologia de última geração

No coração do BMW i3 encontra-se uma nova arquitetura com quatro supercomputadores dedicados às principais funções do veículo: condução, regeneração, assistência ao condutor e infotainment, sendo o sistema “Heart of Joy” responsável por gerir principalmente a dinâmica da condução. Estes computadores oferecem até 20 vezes mais poder de cálculo em comparação com modelos BMW anteriores e permitem atualizações over-the-air, garantindo que o veículo evolui continuamente ao longo do tempo.

Sustentabilidade e inovação

O BMW i3 segue o conceito holístico de sustentabilidade da marca, com recurso a materiais reciclados e processos que reduzem significativamente as emissões de CO2 ao longo do ciclo de vida do veículo. O sistema BMW eDrive de 6ª Geração, incorpora uma bateria que utiliza células cilíndricas com alta densidade energética e design cell-to-pack que optimiza o peso e o espaço. A construção pack-to-open-body aumenta a rigidez e diminui o peso da carroçaria. O veículo suporta também carregamento bidireccional, permitindo usar a bateria como fonte de energia móvel – tanto para um aproveitamento doméstico como para utilização de dispositivos externos, promovendo uma nova forma de integração energética.

Produção e disponibilidade

O novo BMW i3 será produzido na fábrica da BMW em Munique, com início de produção em agosto de 2026 e previsão de chegada a Portugal no outono do mesmo ano. A produção na fábrica de Munique será direcionada exclusivamente para veículos do Neue Klasse - 100% elétricos - a partir de 2027, consolidando o compromisso do BMW Group com a mobilidade sustentável.

¹ Não existem valores WLTP vinculativos atualmente disponíveis, sendo estes dados provisórios. Além disso, os valores reais dependem de vários fatores, como carga, estilo de condução, trajeto, condições meteorológicas, consumos auxiliares (incluindo ar condicionado), pneus e idade da bateria.

² Segundo ISO 12906 no ciclo WLTP.

³   A Critical TechWorks (CTW), uma joint-venture entre o BMW Group e a empresa portuguesa Critical Software, é hoje o maior hub de desenvolvimento de software do BMW Group na Europa e um dos principais responsáveis pela tecnologia que equipará os novos modelos da BMW, MINI. Na BMW Motorrad, esta implementação será feita de forma gradual, abrangendo a maioria dos novos modelos. Com mais de 3.300 colaboradores nos escritórios de Lisboa, Porto e Braga, a CTW desenvolve hoje uma parte significativa do software presente nos novos modelos baseados na plataforma Neue Klasse. Entre os sistemas com contributo português e presentes no novo BMW i3, incluem-se:

• O novo BMW Panoramic iDrive, centrado no condutor com a abordagem "Eyes on the road", aliando uma experiência digital imersiva e personalizada a funcionalidades de realidade aumentada;
• Sistemas avançados de condução assistida, como o Modelo Digital da Estrada e a Previsão de Mudança de Faixa;
• Funcionalidades de aprendizagem contínua, com reprocessamento de dados em tempo real;
• Infraestruturas de base como a POSIX, Safe POSIX e Node 0, que sustentam a arquitetura modular e segura do sistema operativo BMW;
• A nova geração da MyBMW App, que liga condutor, veículo e mundo exterior;
• A infraestrutura que possibilita Remote Software Updates, que mantêm os veículos tecnologicamente atualizados ao longo do seu ciclo de vida.

Além do que acontece a bordo dos veículos, a CTW está também envolvida no desenvolvimento de soluções de eficiência que permitam um plano de produção mais inteligente, otimizar a logística através da digitalização e ainda outras operações internas do BMW Group.

Para mais informações, por favor contactar:

BMW Group Portugal

João Trincheiras, Corporate Communications Director

joao.trincheiras@bmw.pt

Sobre o BMW Group

Com as suas quatro marcas BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce e BMW Motorrad, o BMW Group é o líder mundial no fabrico de automóveis e motociclos premium, prestando igualmente serviços financeiros de alta qualidade. A rede de produção do BMW Group inclui mais de 30 unidades de produção em todo o mundo; a empresa tem uma rede global de vendas em mais de 140 países. Em 2025, o BMW Group vendeu mais de 2.46 milhões de veículos de passageiros e mais de 202.500 motociclos em todo o mundo. O lucro antes de impostos no exercício de 2025 foi de 10.2 mil milhões de euros, sobre receitas no valor de 135.4 mil milhões de euros. A 31 de dezembro de 2025, o BMW Group tinha um efetivo de 154.540 colaboradores. O sucesso do BMW Group tem sido, desde sempre, construído numa ótica de longo prazo e assente numa conduta responsável. A Sustentabilidade é um elemento-chave da estratégia corporativa do BMW Group e abrange todos os produtos da cadeia de valores, desde a produção até ao fim de utilização de todos os seus produtos.

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

Munich. In the BMW i3, as with the BMW iX3, the BMW Group applies a 360° approach to sustainability. At its core is decarbonisation throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle – from product development through the supply chain and production to the end of the use phase. In this way, the second Neue Klasse model also contributes to achieving the ambitious, overarching CO₂e targets the company has set itself.

CO₂e benefits already after 1-2 years of use.
Depending on the drive train variant, annual mileage and source of the electricity used for charging, the new BMW i3 50xDrive already achieves a CO₂e advantage over a comparable model with an internal combustion engine after one to two years of use[1].

Decarbonisation in the supply chain.
Targeted decarbonisation is a key starting point for reducing CO₂e emissions throughout the supply chain. The use of renewable energies, the increasing share of secondary material, and product and process innovations – for example, in the Gen6 cell and high-voltage battery – contribute to a significant emissions reduction across the entire supply chain.
The results of this systematic approach are demonstrated by the emission reductions achieved: Specific measures during product development of the BMW i3 lowered supply chain CO₂e emissions by about a third.[2]

Innovative materials and technologies for interior and exterior.
The “Design for Circularity” principle is also systematically applied in the new BMW i3. The concept incorporates gradually increased use of secondary materials, targeted reduction of material selection and optimised dismantling capability.
For example, the BMW i3 uses 30 percent recycled plastic in its front bumper trim. At the same time, the number of different materials used for the entire bumper, excluding mounted parts, was reduced from 15 to 7, compared to the predecessor model (seventh-generation BMW 3 Series). Due to the high use of a plastic particularly suitable for recycling, the proportion of recyclable plastic was increased from approximately 46 percent in the predecessor to about 85 percent[3]. This enables the recovery of high-quality plastic recyclates from the vehicle.
Another example of how the “Design for Circularity” principle is implemented in the new BMW i3 is the Econeer seat covers offered as part of the “Essential” equipment line, which are made from a recyclable textile composite. The basic material for the upper fabric is 100-percent recycled PET. The use of recycled PET granulate – as the base material for the polyester yarn required – significantly reduces CO₂e emissions and water consumption during manufacturing compared to primary material. The dismantling capability of the seat cover has also been improved to facilitate a material-specific separation at the end of the lifecycle.

Use of secondary materials in the new BMW i3.
The new BMW i3 consists of approx. 30 percent secondary materials in total[4]^: These include cast aluminium components, such front and rear knuckle, with 80 percent secondary material content, and cast aluminium wheel rims with 70 percent secondary aluminium.The housing for the rear electric motor, produced at BMW Plant Landshut, comprises up to two-thirds secondary aluminium. A portion of the energy used in production comes from renewable sources.
In the Gen6 battery cells of the BMW i3 high‑voltage battery, secondary materials are partially used for cobalt, lithium and nickel. Energy from renewable sources is used in manufacturing the anode and cathode materials, as well as for cell production. In comparison to the previous model’s Gen5 cell, CO₂e emissions were reduced by approx. 33 percent per watt hour.
Further examples of the innovative use of engineering and secondary materials include the engine compartment cover and the storage compartment under the BMW i3's bonnet. The starting material for these consists of 30 percent recycled maritime plastic – post-consumer material from used fishing nets and ropes – while the base material for the yarn used in the textiles for the headliner, A-pillar and parcel shelf consists entirely of recycled material.

Enhanced efficiency during use phase.
With the EfficientDynamics technology package, vehicle efficiency is optimised across all subsystems during the use phase.
This encompasses aerodynamics, lightweight construction, rolling resistance and overall energy management, for example. Efficientynamics has been employed by the BMW Group since 2007, across all drive technologies.

BMW Group Plant Munich undergoes extensive modernisation.
BMW Group Plant Munich is the BMW Group’s main plant.For more than a century, the plant has been producing premium mobility in Munich’s Milbertshofen district. Over the past four years, the site has been completely modernised: In addition to a new body shop, a state-of-the-art vehicle assembly was also built, including logistics areas. The new facilities are now in the final stages of construction. Production of the new BMW i3 will get underway here in 2026. Just one year later, the Munich location will transition its production portfolio to exclusively fully-electric vehicles for the Neue Klasse. As the BMW Group’s oldest automobile production site, the plant sources 100 percent of its external electricity requirements from renewable energy.

In line with BMW Group’s sustainable development goals.
The BMW Group’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to reaching “net zero” no later than 2050 is an integral part of its holistic 360° approach to sustainability, which is anchored in its corporate strategy. The company has set itself ambitious science-based CO₂e targets for the coming years. The BMW Group intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by a total of at least 40 million tonnes from 2019 levels by 2030.

Transparency through Product Carbon Footprint .
The BMW Group has published its vehicles’ Product Carbon Footprint, as validated by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), for many years in the so-called Vehicle Footprint. This report is publicly available here for all drive trains of the new BMW 3 Series from the Start of Production and can also be accessed in the My BMW app. In this way, the BMW Group creates transparency around the percentage of secondary materials and CO₂e emissions across the vehicles’ entire lifecycle.

Munich/Arjeplog. The BMW 3 Series has been the embodiment of driving pleasure in the premium midsize class for five decades. All over the world, this icon of the BMW brand is renowned for its superior sportiness, precise handling and effortless agility, combined with long-distance driving comfort. As the latest generation BMW 3 Series is getting ready for launch, so is the first sedan model of the Neue Klasse: the fully electric BMW i3. Prototypes are currently undergoing a comprehensive test programme at the BMW Group winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden.

The BMW i3 will have its design premiere on 18 March 2026. The new fully electric model generation features a sixth-generation eDrive (Gen6). “The BMW i3 applies the sporty sedan’s typical characteristics to a completely new vehicle concept defined by the BMW 3 Series DNA. At the same time, pushing the conventional boundaries of electric mobility into new territory, thanks to the potential of our Neue Klasse,” says Mike Reichelt, Head of Neue Klasse BMW. The control unit consisting of the “superbrain” Heart of Joy and the BMW Dynamic Performance Control driving stack takes driving dynamics to an entirely new level. As the BMW i3 approaches series-production readiness, the test and development team is performing the final fine-tuning of driving dynamics components on the snow-covered roads and frozen lakes of Sweden.

Test drives for fine-tuning in extremely cold weather are a key part of vehicle testing. 
Endurance tests in freezing temperatures and wintry road conditions in Sweden’s extreme north are a long-standing BMW tradition. The snow-covered roads around Arjeplog and the specially prepared surfaces of frozen lakes provide the ideal environment for evaluating and fine-tuning drive and suspension systems Electronic control systems are a good example – the low friction coefficients of surfaces covered by snow and ice enable engineers to test, analyse and optimise the interactions of these systems under precisely reproducible conditions. This provides the foundation of the hallmark BMW driving pleasure. 

Highly innovative overall concept is key to an outstanding driving experience.
The Heart of Joy is one of four “superbrains” in the Neue Klasse. Complemented by the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software developed in-house, it forms the powerful new driving and dynamics control unit in the BMW i3, controlling the powertrain, brakes and some steering functions along with recuperation. Its responses are ten times faster than with previous systems. The result of this technological quantum leap is evident in the particularly effortless and exceptionally precise handling of the new BMW i3.

Even on slippery surfaces like those in Arjeplog, the Heart of Joy ensures agile propulsion. In addition, the extremely fast control of the two electric motors ensures superior driving stability. Only electric motors are capable of processing and executing the lightning-fast commands. This enables the BMW i3 to deliver a light-footed and comfortable drive in every situation. And with typical BMW 3 Series characteristics, it sets new standards in driving dynamics.

Even at the limits, the BMW i3 offers an extremely safe driving experience.
The new BMW i3 can be controlled with maximum precision. It responds instantly to steering inputs and creates a feeling of effortlessness. The Heart of Joy reduces the number of control interventions required – for example by the DSC system. The resulting cornering behaviour is more consistent and reproducible, giving the driver an even greater sense of assurance. In addition, the BMW i3 remains easy to control even when approaching the limits. The Soft-Stop function of the new BMW i3 is exceptional: precise control of the electric motors enables the smoothest stopping process in the history of the BMW 3 Series, without jerks and brake noise. The exceptional stability that the Heart of Joy provides, even on slippery surfaces like those found in Arjeplog, also improves efficiency. The precise control processes of the Heart of Joy allow the BMW i3 to recuperate energy as often and as intensely as possible, even when cornering, without compromising driving stability. “Sheer driving pleasure” redefined. 

Second model of the Neue Klasse: BMW i3 50 xDrive 
• Start of production: Second half of 2026
• Sixth-generation BMW eDrive (Gen6) with 800-volt technology
• Charging capacity: peak charging capacity up to 400 kW
• Electric drive unit with EESM technology on the rear axle and ASM technology on the front axle
• Max. system output: 345 kW/469 hp*
• 645 Nm torque*

* As this is a development-phase prototype, the figures given are provisional. Energy consumption information as per WLTP is not yet available. 

Munich. Autumn 2025 adds revised powertrains, new features and practical details to the current BMW model range. The entry-level models into the world of BMW M – the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé as well as the corresponding models in the BMW 3 Series and 4 Series – will in future have more powerful and fuel-efficient petrol engines. In the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and the BMW i4, the optional Adaptive LED Headlights will now also include laser rear lights.

More power, reduced consumption for BMW M240i xDrive Coupé and the entry-level models into the world of BMW M in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series.

Autumn 2025 will see both the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.5 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 172 g/km; CO₂ class F) and the BMW M340i xDrive Touring (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.9 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 181 g/km; CO₂ class G) fitted with a more powerful variant of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol engine. It now has an output of 288 kW/392 hp, with the mild hybrid system contributing 9 kW/12 hp. The overall increase in power over the previous model is 13 kW/18 hp. Maximum torque has also increased by 40 Nm, to 540 Nm.

This revised powertrain will in future also be fitted in the BMW M440i xDrive Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.7 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 175 g/km; CO₂ class F), the BMW M440i xDrive Convertible (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.7 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 176 g/km; CO₂ class G) and the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.8 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 179 g/km; CO₂ class G).

The output increase makes for even more dynamic performance in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series models mentioned above. It shaves 0.1 seconds off the time it takes each model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. As a result, the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan can now perform this sprint in just 4.3 seconds. The BMW M240i xDrive Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.0 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 183 g/km; CO₂ class G) now also comes fitted with this more powerful engine.

In addition to the output boost, all models benefit from a significant increase in engine efficiency. As a result, the WLTP fuel consumption of the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé, for example, drops from 8.8–8.7 litres/100 km to 8.0 litres/100 km. CO₂ emissions were likewise reduced, from the previous 200–199 g/km to 183 g/km (see table below for all fuel consumption and emissions figures of the new powertrains).

New exterior colours for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, Adaptive LED headlights available for more BMW 4 Series models, practical addition for the BMW 5 Series family.
From autumn 2025, an additional exterior colour will be available as an option for all versions of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé with the M Sport design or the M Sport package. Cape York Green can be ordered for the first time in conjunction with these trim levels.

The optional Adaptive LED Headlights for the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and BMW i4 will also benefit from a significant upgrade. In addition to headlights that will illuminate the road evenly in every situation, this option will now also include laser rear lights. Moreover, Adaptive LED Headlights are also available as an individual option without the M Sport package Pro for the BMW 420i, BMW 420d and BMW 420d xDrive.

In conjunction with Veganza and Merino upholstery, the comprehensive standard equipment in the BMW X3 now also includes rear headrests and side sections of the second row of seats in the upholstery colour. This further enhances the premium appeal of the BMW X3 interior.

All BMW 5 Series, BMW i5 and BMW M5 Sedan and Touring models will in future offer a very handy feature. A coat hook on the B-pillar trim, provided as standard, makes transporting jackets and coats particularly easy.

Improvements related to BMW Connected Drive.
From autumn 2025, the Charging Guide in the Explore tab of the My BMW app will offer relevant help on all aspects of charging – e.g., “How do I charge?”, or “How do I optimise charging?” This helps to make charging stops as convenient and efficient as possible.

BMW Maps charge-optimised route planning for all-electric vehicles is now also available in BMW vehicles with Operating System 8 and 8.5 in Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Romania, Serbia and Singapore.

* All new models available with start of production in November or December 2025.

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the BMW 3 Series, the press kit “40 Years of BMW 3 Series” from 2015 was comprehensively revised, supplemented and updated.

Please find it in the appendix.

+++ BMW i4 gets improved energy efficiency and increased range +++ New BMW i4 range-topper with even more power +++ BMW Digital Key becomes preferred means of access for many BMW models +++ Tyre repair kit Plus now standard on models like BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Coupé, BMW 3 Series +++ BMW Individual special paintwork colours newly available in the BMW Configurator +++ Complimentary extended warranty on high‑voltage batteries +++ New optional paintwork colour for BMW iX +++ Ultimate Package available for BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition +++ New BMW Maps functions +++

Munich. Summer 2025 is set to bring innovations in electric drive technology and digitalisation as well as new standard and optional equipment features that will make the current BMW model range even more attractive. New power electronics in the all-electric BMW i4 result in even greater efficiency and increased range. The most powerful BMW i4 will also debut at the same time. Numerous BMW models will come as standard with Comfort Access and the BMW Digital Key, which has now become even easier to set up.

From summer 2025, the BMW X1, BMW X2 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will be available with new exterior and interior options. Standard equipment for the BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé now includes heated front seats. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant now offers an alternative voice.

BMW i4: reduced consumption, new range-topper with extra power.

From July 2025, the BMW i4 eDrive35 (WLTP combined (EnVKV): energy consumption 17.5 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class A; range 428 km) as well as the BMW i4 eDrive40 (WLTP combined (EnVKV): energy consumption 17.8 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class A; range 510 km) will come with silicon carbide semiconductor components in the power electronics (SiC inverter), which reduce consumption by around 4.5 per cent while adding up to 22 kilometres of range (depending on the model and equipment installed as part of an individual vehicle configuration).

From July 2025, the new range topper for the all-electric BMW i4 comes in the shape of the BMW i4 M60 xDrive (WLTP combined (EnVKV): energy consumption 20.9 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class A; range 433 km). Compared to the predecessor, it provides an additional 42 kW/57 hp of power, for a system output of 442 kW/601 hp. The new BMW i4 M60 xDrive takes 3.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. 

BMW Digital Key: smartphone used as key enables many additional functions.

The BMW Digital Key will soon become the tool of choice to unlock and lock many BMW models, courtesy of a simplified set-up process. The BMW iX was the first to be updated in March 2025, and many model series will follow from July 2025: the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW X1, BMW X2, BMW 5 Series Sedan, BMW 5 Series Touring, BMW M5, BMW M5 Touring and BMW 7 Series. The BMW X5, BMW X5 M, BMW X6, BMW X6 M, BMW X7 and BMW XM models will follow from August 2025. The BMW X3 will come with the new set-up process in the US from August 2025 and in South Africa from September 2025.

The feature will then include a physical key, a Setup Card and a Service Card. The new Setup Card makes it easier than ever to set up the BMW Digital Key on smartphones from all major manufacturers by simply holding the card to the mobile phone or scanning the QR code on the back. The next step takes the user straight into the My BMW app. After authorisation via the Setup Card, the BMW ID is linked to the vehicle and the BMW Digital Key is then activated. After activation, the customer can easily share the Digital Key with other people by sending them a text message. Activation is possible on up to 18 devices. Owners can define various roles and permissions for each vehicle user. A particularly useful function ideal for novice drivers is limiting acceleration and top speed, for example. If a physical key does need to be handed over, for example in the workshop or in the event of a breakdown, the new Service Card can be used. This should always be carried deactivated so it can be activated as a fully-fledged key when needed, via a click on the central display.

For all eventualities: tyre repair kit and tyre repair kit Plus.

From summer 2025, the tyre repair kit will come as standard for various BMW models. These include the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW 2 Series Coupé, BMW 3 Series Sedan, BMW 3 Series Touring, BMW 4 Series Coupé and the BMW 4 Series Convertible. The optional tyre repair kit Plus is available for the BMW X3 (excluding the BMW X3 30e xDrive).

Individual paintwork finishes at a glance, in the BMW Configurator.

Customers appreciate the BMW Individual paintwork colours as a way to add a personal touch to their new BMW. Special paintwork finishes which previously required looking up in the BMW Individual Visualiser can now be selected from within the BMW Configurator. This applies to all BMW models except for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer.

BMW BEV models: free extended warranty for high-voltage batteries.

Since 1 April 2025, BMW has offered a global complimentary extended warranty for the high-voltage batteries in all-electric BMW models. The new warranty applies up to a vehicle age of eight years or a maximum mileage of 160,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Should a high-voltage battery’s capacity drop below 70 per cent during the warranty period, BMW will remedy this loss of capacity at no extra cost to the customer. This applies to all new and used all-electric BMW models from 1 April 2025.

More equipment for BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé.

Standard equipment for the BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé will from summer 2025 be even more comprehensive and include heated front seats and an alarm system. The optional M Technology Package II available for the BMW M135 xDrive (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.3 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 188 g/km; CO₂ class G) and the BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.2 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 185 g/km; CO₂ class G) now includes M seat belts with M colours in the weave.

New colours for BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW X1 and BMW X2.

Summer 2025 will bring new exterior and interior options for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW X1 and BMW X2. New paintwork colours include Fire Red metallic and Night Dusk Blue for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer as well as Dune Grey metallic for the BMW X2. All three colours are also available for the BMW X1, along with BMW Individual Frozen Portimao Blue metallic. Veganza perforated upholstery in the colours Castanea, Smoke White and Atlas Grey/Smoke White is newly available for customising the interior of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and BMW X2. The Castanea and Smoke White colourways are available for the BMW X1. The Econeer Bicolour Blue upholstery can be ordered from summer 2025 in combination with front sport seats only. Another new option is the Brushed Aluminium Shadow interior trim.

More comprehensive equipment for BMW 7 Series, BMW X3 and BMW iX.

The BMW 7 Series and BMW i7 now feature laminated safety glass with contrast print as standard. From summer 2025, comfort glazing, sun protection glazing and the Heat Comfort package will also be available as individual options for the first time, enabling even more specific customisation.

A new equipment option for the BMW X3 is the attractive M door sill trim. It can be ordered for the M Sport package, M Sport package Pro and the BMW X3 M50 xDrive (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.3 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 189 g/km; CO₂ class G).

BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic is a new paintwork finish with a particularly distinctive character, available as an option for the BMW iX from summer 2025.

Ultimate Package for BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition.

The BMW X5 M Competition (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 12.9 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 292 g/km; CO₂ class G) and the BMW X6 M Competition (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 12.8 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 289 g/km; CO₂ class G) now benefit from the optional Ultimate Package. In addition to the M Carbon engine cover, this also includes M Carbon mirror caps, the Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof, active seat ventilation as well as the massage function at the front and the Comfort Package. The Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System ensures exceptional sound quality. The M Driver’s Package included as part of the package increases top speed to 290 km/h. In the BMW X6 M Competition, this is complemented by an exclusive M Carbon rear spoiler.

Comprehensively upgraded BMW iDrive.

Among the numerous innovations in the area of digital services is the upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant in BMW Operating System 9. It now offers customers in Turkey, Greece and Hungary natural-language voice control in their native languages.  

In the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé and BMW X3, customers in many countries* can now link their own Amazon Alexa account to the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. This enables them to use intuitive voice control to enjoy music via the “Hey BMW” command – courtesy of Alexa running in the background, just like at home. In addition, a second voice is now available for the assistant.** Further improvements in language understanding and faster processing speeds contribute to a more harmonious overall experience.

From summer 2025, BMW Digital Premium with BMW Operating System 9 will, subject to country-specific availability, enable customers to use the Zoom app on their Curved Display for videoconferencing when the vehicle is stationary. To avoid distractions, the app automatically deactivates the video while driving.

* US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy.

** In the US, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Switzerland, Austria, Iceland, Malta, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein.

Parking Assistant Plus upgrade.

From July 2025, the functions of the Parking Assistant Plus will be enhanced for many BMW models. It will now also use marker lines around parking spots to help identify available spaces and ensure parking precision. Previously, this feature was only available as part of the Parking Assistant Professional.

BMW Maps user interface upgrades in BMW Operating System 8.5.

BMW Maps offers intuitive destination entry and intelligent route guidance and will come with further user interface improvements from summer 2025. For faster access to frequently used functions, the home screen of the control display will feature direct touch buttons for “Home” and “Work” in the BMW Maps QuickSelect Widget, for example.

* Consumption and emissions data:
The figures for fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, energy consumption and range are for vehicles as offered on the German market. All data are based on the new WLTP test cycle. Energy consumption and emissions data refer to the German Passenger Car Energy Labelling Regulation (EnVKV).

** All new models due to enter production in July 2025.

In case of queries, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Cypselus von Frankenberg, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-30641

E-mail: Cypselus.von-Frankenberg@bmw.de

Alexandra Landers, Head of Product and Brand Communication BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-30871

E-mail: Alexandra.Landers@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. 

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees. 

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.  

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

Relentless progress at the core of the BMW brand.

Update for the global best-seller in the premium midsize class. 

For almost 50 years now, the BMW 3 Series has represented the core of the BMW brand. It epitomises sporty driving pleasure in the premium midsize class and has made significant contributions to design, driving dynamics and technological innovations in this segment time and again across what is now seven model generations. The character of the current-generation BMW 3 Series has likewise provided a case study in unwavering progress at work. The extensive revisions already introduced for model year 2022 in the areas of design, powertrain, digitalisation and equipment will now be followed up with a fresh package of updates that take the cars’ visual appeal and cutting-edge modernity to new levels. New high-voltage batteries increase the electric range of the plug-in-hybrid models to a maximum 101 kilometres (63 miles) in the WLTP cycle. New chassis tuning further enhances the balance between sporting potency and comfort. And when it comes to digitalisation in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring, BMW Operating System 8.5 provides the basis for extremely intuitive and comfortable operation – via the upgraded BMW iDrive with QuickSelect – and for extended navigation functions including Augmented View.

These new technological advances are accompanied by precise design modifications for the exterior and interior. New exterior paint finishes and light-alloy wheels accentuate the aura of sporting elegance radiated by the Sedan and Touring. In the interior, the newly designed steering wheels and instrument panel, plus sophisticated equipment features such as the CraftedClarity glass applications, deliver driving pleasure in an ambience of premium modernity.

The new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring will be launched worldwide with a production phase-in in July 2024. Both models will be built at BMW Group Plant Munich. The BMW 3 Series Sedan will also be produced at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí in Mexico. The new BMW 3 Series Sedan for the Chinese market will be produced at the Tiexi plant in Shenyang operated by the joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA).

BMW 3 Series is the market leader in the premium segment of its class.

The most important sales markets for the new BMW 3 Series are China, Germany, Great Britain and the other European countries, as well as the USA. This is especially true of the Sedan, while the Touring model is particularly in demand in Europe. Its distinctive design and the inherently more practical nature of the underlying concept mean it is also popular in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand.

The BMW 3 Series has embodied driving pleasure, elegantly sporty design and sustained technological progress ever since its debut in 1975. It therefore encapsulates the brand’s hallmark features in particularly concentrated form. More than 20 million examples of the BMW 3 Series have been sold around the world to date, with the current, seventh model generation now accounting for almost three million of these alone. Indeed, recent figures showed the BMW 3 Series to be the market leader in the premium segment of the midsize class in China, Europe and the USA. As things stand, one in every eight vehicles delivered by the brand worldwide is a 3 Series. And in some markets, the share of the total BMW sales accounted for by the 3 Series is as high as 25 – 35 per cent. 

One of the standout features of the BMW 3 Series range is the wide variety of power units available to customers. Both the Sedan and Touring can be specified with a choice of four petrol engines and four diesels. And both feature a range-topping pair of M Performance models with six-cylinder in-line engines. The plug-in-hybrid variants, meanwhile, have gained particularly strongly in popularity recently – a development that the latest upgrades in high-voltage battery and charging technology are set to continue. The 3 Series sales charts are headed by the BMW 320i Sedan. Around three quarters of the globally available Sedan variant are delivered with a petrol engine. By contrast, around 40 per cent of BMW 3 Series Touring models are specified with a diesel engine, with the remainder split equally between petrol and plug-in-hybrid variants.

A host of awards confirm the appeal of the BMW 3 Series.

Alongside its enduring popularity in car markets around the world, the BMW 3 Series has also amassed a steadily increasing number of prestigious awards decided on by juries and readers’ polls. In 2023 the BMW 3 Series earned both a class win in the “Auto Trophy” awarded by readers of German motoring magazine “Auto Zeitung” and victory in the “Best Cars“ competition conducted by fellow German title “auto, motor und sport”. And the Sedan and Touring also collected a series of distinctions in markets beyond Germany in recognition of their dynamic qualities, reliability and advanced equipment features.

An unwavering commitment to carbon footprint reduction.

Highly efficient drive systems, intelligent lightweight design and optimised aerodynamic attributes are key contributors to the fine balance between driving pleasure and low fuel consumption and emissions struck by the new BMW 3 Series. The 48V mild hybrid technology used in certain models both sharpens power delivery and enhances efficiency. The bonnet, front side panels, engine subframe, front spring struts and numerous chassis components are all made from aluminium. The proportion of secondary raw materials used in cast aluminium parts for the BMW 3 Series is around 50 per cent. And the aluminium wheel rims offered for the Sedan and Touring are made up of as much as around 70 per cent recycled aluminium.

The externally procured electricity used in production of the new BMW 3 Series at BMW Group Plant Munich is generated from renewable sources. The BMW 3 Series also plays its part in helping the BMW Group to meet its exacting CO₂ targets by consistently increasing vehicle efficiency. The BMW Group has set itself the goal of cutting life-cycle CO₂ emissions per vehicle by at least 40 per cent by 2030 compared to 2019. By 2050 at the latest, the company is aiming for net zero in terms of CO₂e emissions throughout the value chain.

The BMW Group continued the ongoing reduction in its fleet CO₂ emissions across the European car markets in 2023. Indeed, the company posted a provisional figure of 102.1 grams per kilometre in the WLTP cycle – 20 per cent below the target of 128.5 g/km set by the European Union.

Exterior design, interior and equimpent. 

Progressive aura, refined ambience. 

More than ever, sporting elegance and modernity define the design of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring. In the current model generation, their driving pleasure-focused character is expressed in clear lines and generously sculpted surfaces. The sophisticated design of the BMW kidney grille and twin circular headlights – both signature brand features – gives the front end an unmistakable appearance. Eye-catching front and rear aprons underscore the cars’ dynamic profile, which can be further accentuated by specifying the optional M Sport package or M Sport package Pro.

The BMW 3 Series can now also be ordered with new exterior paint finishes and light-alloy wheels to add an extra touch of individualisation. In the interior, the progressive aura of the cockpit with BMW Curved Display is further enhanced by new steering wheels, visual modifications for the instrument panel and modernised decorative elements. Seat surfaces in the new M Performtex variant come as part of the M Sport package or are included as standard in the M Performance models.

Fresh design updates enhance the sporting elegance of the exterior.

The spectrum of exterior colours available for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring comprises two solid and seven metallic paint finishes. New additions to the range include Arctic Race Blue metallic and Fire Red metallic.

The selection of optional light-alloy wheels also welcomes attractive new arrivals. Cars specified with the M Sport package will be available with new 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, giving their side view an even more dynamic appearance. Customers can order these wheels in either a Jet Black finish or a bi-colour variant. Meanwhile, the BMW Individual range for the Sedan and Touring models also includes new 19-inch light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design and a bi-colour finish. All the new light-alloy wheels are fitted with mixed-size tyres.

Progressive cockpit with new sports leather steering wheels.

Advanced new features have also been introduced in the interior of the Sedan and Touring models. These help to give the cockpit a clean and pared-back look. Newly designed steering wheels add further intensity to the driving experience. The progressive premium character of the cars is also showcased by high-quality materials and new interior trim elements. The optional instrument panel Luxury in Sensatec has a further refined surface structure and decorative stitching in a contrasting colour.

The latest-generation steering wheels in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring stand out with their modern and sporty design. Both models come as standard with a fundamentally redesigned sports leather steering wheel with a polygonal rim in two-spoke design. The M Sport package brings a new M leather steering wheel with three spokes, a flat-bottomed rim and a discreet centre marking in the 12 o’clock position. Both of the newly designed steering wheels have illuminated multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles. Fitted as standard, the paddles enable particularly swift manual interventions in the gear selection process and underscore the sporting profile of the new BMW 3 Series.

Digital climate control, selectable light moods.

The introduction of the latest-generation BMW iDrive with QuickSelect based on BMW Operating System 8.5 in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring also brings optimised operation of the ventilation and climate control functions. An operating concept focused squarely on touch control and natural language enables a further reduction in the number of physical buttons and controls in the cockpit. Temperature selection, intensity of ventilation, seat heating and – if specified – steering wheel heating can now be adjusted on the BMW Curved Display or by voice command with the help of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. New adjustment controls for the air vent grilles in the centre of the instrument panel and on the driver’s and front passenger side of the cockpit allow the intensity and direction of airflow to be adjusted using rotating and tilting movements.

The interior lighting now includes cascade lighting integrated into the trim around the central seam vents as standard. It can be adjusted for colour and brightness according to personal preference, with users able to select from nine colour worlds. Their choice of colour and brightness settings are stored as part of their profile. If the optional ambient lighting (standard in the M Performance models) is specified, the individually adjustable light mood also extends to the front footwells, the storage compartment in the front section of the centre console and the contour lines of the door panel trims. The functionality of the interior lighting also includes an atmospheric Welcome and Goodbye Animation and light signals indicating an incoming phone call and optionally also an open door.

New seat surfaces in M Performtex.

As an alternative to the black cloth seat surfaces fitted as standard, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring can also be ordered with sport seats in Sensatec perforated. These are available in Black, Tacora Red or Cognac. The optional Vernasca leather trim is now offered in four colour variants.

The black surfaces of the sport seats in new M Performtex trim embody progressive sporting appeal. They are included in the M Sport package or as part of standard equipment for the M Performance models. This innovative velours covering combines high material quality and a sporty design with low weight and a sustainability-optimised production method. Cars with the M Sport package and the M Performance models can also be ordered with sport seats and M sport seats in Vernasca leather with black surfaces and blue contrast quilting.

New interior trim elements, exclusive accents with CraftedClarity.

Extensive revisions have also been made to the range of interior trim elements. Dark Graphite matt comes as standard in the new edition of the BMW 3 Series, while Fineline Light open-pored and Grey Blue Ash open-pored fine-wood trim, plus the Carbon Fibre and Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite variants, can all be found on the options list.

The use of extremely high-quality materials also allows distinctive touches to be included in other areas of the interior to enhance its modern premium character. For example, customers can now specify CraftedClarity glass applications – another new addition to the options list. These give the gear selector lever, BMW iDrive Controller and Start/Stop button a particular air of exclusivity, both visually and in how they feel to the touch.

Extensive standard equipment, high-quality options.

Standard specification for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring includes 17-inch (plug-in-hybrid models: 18-inch) light-alloy wheels, M High-gloss Shadow Line, a rear-view mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function and the Parking Assistant including Park Distance Control (PDC) with sensors at the front and rear. Also fitted as standard are three-zone automatic climate control and BMW Live Cockpit Plus with the fully digital BMW Curved Display including the BMW Maps navigation system.

The Touring model comes as standard with automatic tailgate operation and a 40 : 20 : 40 split/folding rear seat backrest, which is available as an option for the Sedan. Among the highlights on the list of individual options allowing customers to adapt the interior to their requirements and tastes are – alongside sport seats and ambient lighting – the Harman Kardon surround sound system, pre-heating, an electrically operated glass roof for the Sedan and a panoramic glass sunroof for the Touring model.

Powertrain and driving experience.

Greater electric range for plug-in-hybrid models and improved ride comfort. 

With a choice of four petrol and four diesel engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology – including exceptionally powerful six-cylinder in-line units for the M Performance models – as well as plug-in-hybrid technology and the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system for numerous model variants, the BMW 3 Series offers a greater variety of drive systems than any other model range in the brand’s portfolio. All new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring models come equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard, complete with shift paddles on the steering wheel for quick manual interventions in the gear selection process.

The various engines available for the BMW 3 Series produce outputs ranging from 110 kW/150 hp up to 210 kW/286 hp. These are joined by the 275 kW/374 hp six-cylinder in-line petrol engine and the 250 kW/340 hp straight-six diesel found under the bonnet of the M Performance models (see separate chapter). Both the six-cylinder in-line petrol unit and all diesel engines come with mild hybrid technology for more dynamic power delivery and greater efficiency. To this end, their 48V starter generator puts an extra 8 kW/11 hp on tap.

New high-voltage battery for plug-in-hybrid models.

The plug-in hybrids in the new BMW 3 Series range take electrification a step further. The condensed line-up now consists of the BMW 330e Sedan and BMW 330e Touring models, which are both available with a choice of classical rear-wheel drive or BMW xDrive. Their drive technology comprises a four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, which generate a combined system output of 215 kW/292 hp.

The plug-in-hybrid representatives from the latest edition of the BMW 3 Series boast even greater efficiency and a considerably longer electric range. This has been made possible by the switch to a new high-voltage battery with 19.5 kWh of usable energy. The product of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, it has a much higher energy density than the battery previously fitted in BMW 3 Series plug-in-hybrid models.

The new BMW Gen5 high-voltage battery represents a leap forward, bringing an improvement in all the relevant technical statistics. The high energy density at both cell and battery pack level combines with higher voltages to bring about a major increase in system efficiency. This ultimately results in a much longer electric range for the driver. Although the high-voltage battery’s usable energy has nearly doubled, the amount of space in the interior and load compartment remains unchanged, as does fuel tank capacity.

These latest advances in battery technology open up greater scope for experiencing pure-electric driving pleasure in a BMW 3 Series. Electric range figures of 85 – 101 kilometres (53 – 63 miles) for the new BMW 330e Sedan, 81 – 96 kilometres (50 – 59 miles) for the new BMW 330e xDrive Sedan, 87 – 98 kilometres (54 – 61 miles) for the new BMW 330e Touring and 84 – 91 kilometres (52 – 57 miles) for the new BMW 330e xDrive Touring allow drivers to complete not only urban journeys and the daily commute with zero local emissions, but longer trips too.

More advanced charging technology is also on hand to help drivers use all-electric drive power as extensively as possible. The new charging unit supports three-phase AC charging at up to 11 kW, the first time that such a high rate has been available for a plug-in hybrid from BMW. This enables the high-voltage battery to be fully recharged from empty in 2 hours 15 minutes. The plug-in-hybrid models in the new BMW 3 Series range are also now compatible with the latest offering from BMW Charging: the Connected Home Charging option provides the basis for solar-optimised and load-optimised charging.

Chassis offers an even better blend of sportiness and comfort.

The chassis technology of the new BMW 3 Series also benefits from rigorous development work. Both the Sedan and Touring variants have always set the standard for driving dynamics in their respective segments. The blend of sporting flair and ride comfort for which the 3 Series is renowned has now been further refined across all model variants with a series of targeted updates. The stiffer mounting connecting the rear dampers to the body is just one of the measures used to achieve this.

Thanks to these relentless development endeavours, drivers will enjoy a notable increase in comfort across all driving situations – regardless of the road surface conditions and the selected driving mode – without any loss of the customary 3 Series dynamic prowess. This also has a positive impact on acoustics when the car is handling peak forces triggered by the road surface. As a result, its handling exudes even greater overall precision, composure and controllability. The force needed to turn the steering wheel has also been reduced in Comfort mode to achieve superior steering comfort in everyday driving.

Available as an alternative to the standard variant is the M Sport suspension included as part of the M Sport package. Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and variable sport steering is also available on models with the M Sport package.

Advanced assistance systems for driving and parking.

A wide selection of assistance systems enhance comfort and safety when driving and parking in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring. The front collision warning system with brake intervention, Cruise Control with brake function and the new Intelligent Speed Assistance function are some of the features that come as standard. The standout optional extra is the Driving Assistant Professional package comprising the Steering and Lane Control Assistant and Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, plus automatic Speed Limit Assist, route speed control, traffic light recognition, the Evasion Assistant, Crossroads Warning with city braking function, Wrong-way Warning and Front Crossing Traffic Warning.

Besides Park Distance Control, the standard Parking Assistant also enables automated manoeuvring into and out of parking spaces, as well as featuring a Reversing Assist Camera and the Reversing Assistant. There is also the option of the Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View and Remote 3D View functions.

The M Performance models in the new BMW 3 Series range. 

Elite sporting models with a distinctive character. 

The sporting character of the new BMW 3 Series can be experienced in a highly concentrated format with the range-topping Performance models from BMW M GmbH. Featuring powerful six-cylinder in-line engines, a bespoke chassis set-up and signature M design cues both inside and out, the distinctive personality of these elite sporting models clearly shines through in both the driving experience and their looks. And there is now a new steering wheel and new seat upholstery to freshen up the cockpit.

The M Performance models from the new 3 Series range are available with a petrol and a diesel engine, each with a displacement of 3.0 litres and endowed with M‑typical performance attributes. Their healthy appetite for revs and instantaneous power delivery are the result of the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology – which is tailored individually to each engine – and 48V mild hybrid technology, whose output of 8 kW/11 hp produces an electric boost effect. The straight-six power units in the M Performance models are partnered by an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with an ultra-sharp shift action. The BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system is also on hand as standard to enhance agility and traction.

The six-cylinder in-line petrol engine in the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring generates maximum output of 275 kW/374 hp and peak torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). The BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring, meanwhile, are powered by a straight-six diesel unit delivering 250 kW/340 hp and peak torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). M Sport suspension with variable sport steering, the M Sport differential and M Sport brakes are also included as standard to deliver the blend of dynamic longitudinal and lateral performance, precision and exhilaration at the wheel for which M models are renowned.

Individual look with M-specific design features.

The performance capabilities of these elite athletes are clearly flagged by M‑specific design features crafted to meet technical requirements in terms of aerodynamics and cooling air supply. These include the large air intakes in the front apron, along with the M exterior mirror caps in Black high-gloss and the rear apron with its prominently styled diffuser. The BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Sedan models also sport a body-coloured M rear spoiler.

A mesh-design BMW kidney grille, exclusive 18-inch M light-alloy wheels and trapezoidal exhaust tailpipe trim further add to the individual appearance of the range-topping sporting quartet. They are also available with the option of the M Sport package Pro.

Modern sports car ambience in the cabin.

Inside the M Performance models, M-specific equipment details help to deliver a focused driving experience in a modern sports car ambience. Black sport seats trimmed in the new M Performtex upholstery are now fitted as standard, while there is also the option of M Sport seats covered in Vernasca leather that come in Black with blue contrast quilting.

A new version of the M leather steering wheel dials up the intensity of the performance experience with its flat-bottomed rim, red centre marker and contrast stitching in BMW M GmbH colours. Interior trim strips in the new Aluminium fine-brushed finish, M door sill trim, M pedals, an M driver’s footrest and M-specific graphics for the BMW Curved Display are further standard features that help to imbue the flagship sporting models with their distinctive personality.

Display and control/operation system, connectivity. 

The new BMW Operating System 8.5 and innovative digital services. 

The latest version of the BMW iDrive display and control/operation system with QuickSelect is fitted in the new edition of the BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring, enabling vehicle functions to be controlled intuitively and providing access to digital services. It is now based on BMW Operating System 8.5 and features a new-look home screen and QuickSelect rapid-access tech, bringing an improved menu structure that takes its cue from consumer electronics devices.

Working in tandem with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the new BMW iDrive is geared even more rigorously to operation using touch control and natural language. The climate control functions, including the seat heating and – if fitted – the steering wheel heating, are also now controlled digitally.

BMW iDrive with QuickSelect allows functions to be selected directly from the home screen with rapid-access tech.

The BMW iDrive home screen now continuously displays the navigation system’s map view in a large format or another individually selectable view. The system’s QuickSelect functionality also paves the way for a flatter menu structure, enabling the driver to select the desired function directly from the home screen without any need to enter submenus.

On the driver’s side of the control display, there is a bar of widgets for accessing e.g. media or phone functions, which can be navigated by swiping vertically. Swiping a widget horizontally then displays additional related information and settings options. The widget bar can be customised by installing new widgets, removing existing ones or changing their arrangement.

And the home icon at the lower edge of the control display makes it possible to return to the home screen from any application with a simple tap of the finger. Icons for direct access to the climate control menu, All Apps menu and, if activated, Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^TM can also now be found next to the home icon.

Enhanced navigation with BMW Maps and Augmented View.

The BMW Maps navigation system forming part of the standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus in the new 3 Series range makes it easier to input destinations and can offer additional information while driving. Further new features include better usability of filters, a flatter menu structure with touch buttons shown directly on the map view and proactive route recommendations.

The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional adds not only the BMW Head-Up Display, but also the Augmented View function. This supplements the navigation system’s map display by showing a live video stream of the driver’s view on the information display or control display and augmenting it with contextual real-time information. At confusing junctions, for instance, an animated directional arrow is integrated into the video image to help the driver take the best turn-off for the planned route.

Individual user experience with the BMW ID and My BMW App.

The arrival of BMW Operating System 8.5 makes it even easier to personalise the user experience in the BMW 3 Series by simplifying the process for linking the vehicle with the BMW ID and My BMW App. Customers initially sign in to the vehicle with their BMW ID by scanning a QR code with their smartphone. The personal user profile is then imported automatically. Synchronisable settings are loaded and the key detected in the vehicle is associated with the BMW ID.

At the same time, the vehicle is added to the My BMW App – the universal interface that serves as a gateway to BMW’s digital ecosystem. It provides information on the vehicle’s status, its remaining range and any servicing and maintenance requirements. Depending on the car’s specification, it also enables access to various remote functions, such as locating the vehicle or locking and unlocking the doors. The optional Remote 3D View function gives drivers the ability to call up a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle’s immediate vicinity on their smartphone.

It is also possible to control the charging process for the plug-in-hybrid models from the My BMW App. This means that charging of the high-voltage battery can be started and stopped again either immediately or at a specified time. Pre-conditioning can likewise be activated remotely using a smartphone. The My BMW App additionally offers an overview of the charging history.

Besides this, the My BMW App also lets users send destination addresses from their smartphone to the vehicle’s navigation system for route planning, or access the online BMW ConnectedDrive Store where upgrades and additional functions for the new BMW 3 Series can be initiated, purchased or extended over the air. The “My Trips” feature including Efficiency Trainer and monthly review provides the user with valuable data and evaluations for distance travelled, consumption and average speed, as well as offering helpful tips for driving efficiently.

Optimum connectivity with Personal eSIM and 5G mobile standard.

In addition to the vehicle’s built-in mobile SIM, customers can also use the Personal eSIM included in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring as standard. Linked to the user’s BMW ID rather than the car, this fully integrates the vehicle into the customer’s digital ecosystem. The Personal eSIM makes it possible to use the communications and connectivity functions covered by a separate mobile phone contract from the car with ease – even in situations where the smartphone itself isn’t actually in the vehicle.

The Personal eSIM enables use of the 5G mobile communications standard. It also allows data streaming via a WiFi hotspot by means of a low-radiation connection to the vehicle’s exterior antenna. All phone functions can be operated with the BMW iDrive system or the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The Personal eSIM can be used in all countries where BMW ConnectedDrive services are available. It extends the customer’s existing mobile phone contract, which may result in additional costs.

Parking fees and fuel bills can be paid directly from the vehicle.

Drivers of the latest edition of the BMW 3 Series are now able to pay parking fees directly from their vehicle in many European countries. The vehicle automatically detects whether the service is available upon arrival in a parking zone and, if so, displays the payment function. The parking booking can be paid for quickly and simply using the credit card registered in the My BMW App.

And drivers in Germany also have the option of settling fuel bills digitally from their car as soon as they have refuelled at participating filling stations. As with the parking fee payment service, this is done using the credit card information first registered in the vehicle apps.

BMW M Performance Parts. 

Distinctive additions express the passion for motor sport. 

The BMW 3 Series epitomises driving pleasure in the premium segment of the midsize class – in both sporty Sedan and dynamic Touring form. In addition to the M Sport package and M Sport package Pro available from the factory, the products included in the BMW M Performance Parts range offer further scope for bringing even greater dynamic appeal to the appearance and driving properties of all the model variants.

These model-specific retrofit options from the Original BMW Accessories list were developed using the proven expertise of BMW M GmbH in motor sport. The specific aerodynamics and exterior components for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and new BMW 3 Series Touring underscore the dynamic aura of the two models, as do the light-alloy wheels in the BMW M Performance Parts line-up.

Munich. With a brace of victories in the “Best Cars” competition, BMW has backed up its successful end to 2023 with a similarly fruitful beginning to 2024. The BMW 2 Series Coupé wrapped up class victory in the compact segment for the third time in succession, while the BMW X1 led the way in the “compact SUV” category. The “Best Cars” award – voted on by readers of German motoring magazine “auto, motor und sport” and in its 48th edition this year – is one of the most prestigious in the European automotive industry. Almost 100,000 respondents took part in the survey, selecting one overall winner and one “imported car” champion from a field of 455 models across 13 vehicle categories.

The start of 2024 was also marked by class victory for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan in the “Large Car” category of the “Women's Worldwide Car of the Year” award. 75 female automotive journalists from 52 countries picked out their favourites from a total of 62 vehicles in five categories. Intended to showcase the influence of women in the automotive industry and presented for the 14th time this year, this prize takes into account factors such as safety, quality, price, design, ride comfort, everyday usability and environmental impact. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan won over the jury members with its electrified drive system line-up (including the fully electric BMW i5), as well as its spaciousness, advanced technology and now fully vegan interior.

This successful beginning to the year saw BMW building on its run of success in a large number of awards in 2023. Models from the premium brand’s current range claimed numerous prizes in both its home market of Germany and its most important sales regions internationally. The winners stretched across all the relevant categories, with compact models, luxury vehicles and high-performance sports cars from BMW M GmbH all making waves. As well as vehicles powered by combustion engines, the readers and juries also recognised a strikingly high number of representatives from BMW’s constantly expanding electric mobility range.

“We’re very proud that our various BMW vehicles have won awards in so many national and international competitions. This also shows that we have attractive models in all segments that excite people,” says Jochen Goller, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Customer, Brands, Sales. “The response to our models with all-electric drive systems is particularly pleasing. This ties in with the strong demand from customers and supports the BMW Group’s commitment to ramping up electric mobility in all areas.”

Newcomer to the ranks of high-performance models and a fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle both win a “Golden Steering Wheel”.

The “Golden Steering Wheel” presented by German publications “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag” is one of the most prestigious distinctions in the European car industry. BMW took two of these coveted trophies back to Munich in 2023. The BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive (fuel consumption, combined: 10.4 – 10.1 l/100 km [27.2 – 28.0 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 235 – 229 g/km in the WLTP cycle) ranked first in the “sports cars” category and the fully electric BMW iX1 topped the “compact class”.

Both models added a string of other international awards to their collections over the course of 2023. For example, the first ever BMW M3 Touring – which combines the dynamic prowess of a high-performance car with impressive levels of practicality – was elected sports car of the year in the category for vehicles costing up to 120,000 euros by readers of “Auto Bild Sportscars” magazine. And acclaimed British TV programme “Top Gear” honoured the BMW M GmbH newcomer with the title “All The Car You'll Ever Need” in its “Car of the Year” awards.

The BMW iX1 collected a trio of awards in China, including “All-Electric Premium SUV of the Year”. It also won the French “Automobile Award 2023” in the “Green Tech” category and the “autonis Award” bestowed by readers of “auto, motor und sport” to the year’s most attractive new design.

Fully electric BMW i5 enjoys immediate success around the world.

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW i5 also claimed an “autonis” prize. Now also available with a fully electric drive system for the first time, the new edition of the world’s most successful business sedan was also named “Car of the Year” by Portuguese magazine “Frontline”. The BMW i5 was also presented with equivalent awards in Norway and Denmark, both particularly important markets for electric vehicles. Norwegian daily “Dagbladet” teamed up with online portals “DinSide” and “Elbi24” to celebrate the BMW i5. While in Denmark, the i5 fought off competition from six other models to gain the most votes for “Car of the Year” in a final round made up exclusively of fully electric models. The jury of 20 Danish motoring journalists chose the BMW i5 as their winner by a large margin.

Chinese publication “Auto World” crowned the BMW i5 as “Most Anticipated Premium Executive Sedan of the Year”, and the fully electric business sedan also collected three awards in Great Britain: “The Car Expert” put the BMW i5 in top spot in its “Best Large Car Award”, it was named “Premium Car of the Year” in the “2024 Electrifying.com Awards” and the “Comfortable Cruiser” topped its class in Carwow’s “Car of the Year Awards 2024”.

The awards underscore the ability of the new BMW i5 Sedan to win people over with numerous different qualities: from character-rich design, a unique balance between sportiness and comfort, innovative equipment features and progressive digital services to a drive system whose power is matched by its capability over long distances. And it also uses latest-generation BMW eDrive technology to transfer the brand’s signature dynamic ability to the road with zero local emissions. In addition, adaptive recuperation and an intelligent combination of heat pump technology for heating and cooling the interior, drive system and high-voltage battery help to give the BMW i5 eDrive40 Sedan (electric power consumption, combined: 18.9 – 15.9 kWh/ 100 km in the WLTP cycle) a range of 498 – 582 kilometres (309 – 362 miles) in the WLTP cycle.

BMW’s electric mobility offensive is recognised with awards.

The BMW brand’s fully electric model line-up as a whole enjoyed a successful year worldwide in 2023. As well as the BMW iX1 and BMW i5, this was particularly true of the BMW i7 and BMW i4. In Great Britain alone, these two models were both among the winners in seven awards. Both won the “Auto Express New Car Award” in their respective vehicle classes. The BMW i4 also claimed the “Pocket-lint Award” and “Business Car Award”, and the BMW i7 celebrated success in both the “What Car? Electric Car Awards” and the “What Car? Car of the Year Awards”. The fully electric luxury sedan racked up five prizes in China, too, including the “Car of the Year” distinction from leading online magazine “sohu.com”.

There was also much to celebrate in France and the USA, where the BMW i7 was given the “Best Overall and Best Value” rating from “Money” magazine and praised by “wards auto” magazine for its standout luxury ambience and digital user experience with BMW Theatre Screen in the rear compartment. Renowned US magazine “car and driver” named both the BMW i4 M50 (electric power consumption, combined: 22.5 – 18.0 kWh/ 100 km in the WLTP cycle) and BMW i4 eDrive40 M50 (electric power consumption, combined: 19.1 – 16.1 kWh/ 100 km in the WLTP cycle) among the “Best 10” of 2023.

Top marks and distinctions for the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series ranges, the BMW M2 and the BMW X3.

BMW set the seal on a successful year in Germany with a two-pronged triumph. The BMW 3 Series and BMW X3 closed out 2023 with class victory in the coveted “Auto Trophy”. The BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring, for example, took clear victories in the hotly contested midsize segment of the readers’ survey conducted by German title “Auto Zeitung”, racking up 19.0 per cent of the vote. This was the seventh class win in a row for the 3 Series. Meanwhile, the rugged aura, interior spaciousness and commitment to electrification of the BMW X3 helped it account for 15.3 per cent of the votes cast and therefore the highest points total in the high-volume vehicle segment of “SUVs costing 30,000 – 60,000 euros”.

The BMW 3 Series was a particularly prolific award-winner in Great Britain. In the “Business Car Awards”, the 3 Series won the “Best Premium Car” prize, and it also gained entry to the “Hall of Fame” of “Fleet News” magazine as the “Most Reliable Company Car”. The BMW 3 Series won twice in the “What Car? Used Car Awards”, topping both the “Used Executive Car” category and overall “Used Car of the Year”. And then there was the “Best Used Hybrid Executive Car” distinction for the BMW 330e Sedan (fuel consumption, combined: 1.9 – 1.4 l/100 km [148.7 – 201.8 mpg imp]; electric power consumption, combined 20.1 – 18.1 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 43 – 32 g/km in the WLTP cycle). The plug-in hybrid model also tasted success in the USA, where “Money” magazine described it as “Best for Handling”.

Adding to the wave of success enjoyed by the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 4 Series – with its standout sporting appeal – also enriched the brand’s glittering international reputation in the premium midsize segment. The best example of this came in the BMW 4 Series Coupé and BMW 4 Series Convertible’s showing in the “What Car? Car of the Year Awards” in Great Britain. The closed-roof two-door won the “Coupe of the Year” for the third year in succession in 2023. And this year its open-top sister model also won the “Convertible of the Year” award.

Two other British awards were claimed by the BMW M2. It was voted “Best Performance Car” in “The Car Expert Awards”, and the compact high-performance sports car also took the title of “Performance Car of the Year” in the “Auto Express New Car Awards”.

_{Official fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures were determined based on the prescribed measurement procedure in accordance with European Regulation (EC) 2007/715 in the version applicable. Where a range is shown, the WLTP figures take into account the impact of any optional extras.}

_{Only official figures based on the WLTP procedure are available for new models that have been type tested since 01.01.2021. In addition, according to EU Regulation 2022/195, the NEDC values will no longer be included in the EC certificates of conformity as of 01.01.2023. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.}

_{Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen ' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2.}

In the event of enquiries please contact:

Corporate Communications

Cypselus von Frankenberg, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-30641

E-mail: Cypselus.von-Frankenberg@bmw.de

Alexandra Landers, Head of Product and Brand Communication BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-30871

E-mail: Alexandra.Landers@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

_{With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.}

_{In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.}

_{The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.}

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Please find attached on location pictures of the International Media Launch of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and the new BMW 3 Series Touring. 

Munich. The ongoing commitment of BMW to transformation and digitalisation has earned the brand several awards once again this year. The readers of motoring magazines Auto Bild & Computer Bild and auto, motor und sport / Moove singled out innovative connectivity features and digital services for special praise. They were particularly impressed by BMW’s strategic development of digital products and services, as well as the brand’s seamless integration of smart devices and its intuitive operating concept. 

The BMW Digital Key topped the rankings in this year’s Connected Car Awards presented by Auto Bild & Computer Bild. The smartphone-based digital car key allows owners to lock and unlock their vehicle easily and safely. They can also send a Digital Key for their car to as many as five other people. And there is also the option of releasing a special Digital Key with limited rights (e.g. restricted maximum speed and acceleration, stereo volume, etc.), which is ideal for novice drivers, for example.

More than 11,000 of the readers who cast their votes in the Car Connectivity Award 2020 poll conducted by the auto, motor und sport / Moove magazines judged the BMW 3 Series to be the car with the most innovative connectivity features in the “Connected Cars” category. The BMW 3 Series was the first model range to be equipped with the voice-controlled BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant based on the digital operating concept BMW Operating System 7.0. Another connectivity highlight is Remote Software Upgrade, which enables customers to keep their vehicles supplied with the latest software updates. Here, new functions can be imported into the car quickly and easily over the air. 

Meanwhile, BMW Driving Assistant Professional collected the most votes from readers in the “Driver Assistance Systems Safety” category. This tech package features Steering and Lane Control Assistant including the new Active Navigation and Emergency Lane Assistant functions. And Assisted View allows the workings of the individual Driving Assistant Professional assistance systems to be shown in real time in the instrument cluster through 3D visualisation of the surrounding area.

Christoph Grote, Senior Vice President Digital Car, BMW Group, expressed his appreciation for the awards: “On behalf of the whole team at BMW I would like to sincerely thank all the readers involved for the three awards,” he said. “For us, these distinctions represent the best reward and motivation – above all, because the readers have decided the outcome. This vote of confidence from you confirms to us that we are heading in the right direction, and we will continue to do everything we can to delight our customers over and over again.”

The ongoing expansion of connectivity towards a digital, emission-free future is – alongside automated driving – one of the central areas of activity through which the BMW Group is driving forward its strategic transformation of the mobility sector.

Please find attached on location pictures of the BMW 330e Touring.

Munich. Two extremely efficient high-performance models are joining the BMW M line-up in the premium midsize segment. The six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology fitted in the BMW M340d xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 5.7 – 5.3 l/100 km [49.6 – 53.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 149 – 139 g/km) and BMW M340d xDrive Touring (fuel consumption combined: 5.8 – 5.4 l/100 km [48.7 – 52.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 153 – 143 g/km) produces exceptional pulling power while attaining similarly impressive levels of efficiency. The 3.0-litre unit generates maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp and peak torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). The inclusion of 48V mild hybrid technology, meanwhile, has led to a further reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to their comprehensive arsenal of exhaust gas treatment technologies, including an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection, the most powerful diesel variants of the new BMW 3 Series also comply with the future Euro 6d emissions standard.

The arrival of the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring in April 2020 bring that inimitable M feeling to a diesel-fuelled BMW 3 Series for the first time. The potent engine in the new BMW M models teams up with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, bespoke chassis technology and intelligent all-wheel drive. M Sport suspension – including variable sport steering – and M Sport brakes are fitted as standard on both models, likewise the M Sport differential. M-specific exterior features with optimised aerodynamic properties are part of an overall package that leaves no stone unturned in the provision of supreme performance. The new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.6 seconds, while the new BMW M340d xDrive Touring completes the same sprint in 4.8 seconds. The combination of pulsating driving characteristics and a cockpit focusing squarely on the enjoyment of intense driving pleasure guarantees an enthralling experience of high performance at work.

Exceptional power delivery meets exemplary efficiency: the six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and 250 kW/340 hp.

The new M models in the BMW 3 Series line-up owe their unmistakable character in no small part to outstanding power delivery coupled with rock-bottom fuel consumption and emissions given the performance at hand. Their 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line diesel engine features a crankcase and cylinder head both made from aluminium. Frictional losses in the base engine are reduced by measures including a wire-arc sprayed steel coating for the cylinder bores.

The power unit’s BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a two-stage turbocharging system with optimised thermodynamics and direct charge air cooling, along with common-rail direct injection using piezo injectors. To ensure exceptionally sharp turbocharger response, the system’s high-pressure and low-pressure stages both feature variable turbine geometry. The further developed direct injection system, whose injectors now operate at a maximum 2,700 bar, ensures a precisely metered supply of fuel and extremely clean combustion. Integral pressure sensors enable up to ten injections per stoke. Engine response and efficiency also benefit from an intake system with optimised air routing, whose upgraded design enhances the power unit’s acoustics as well. Extensive engine encapsulation measures ensure the straight-six is particularly easy on the ears – and at the same time helps to optimise warm-up behaviour. Specially developed for the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring, the diesel unit’s peak torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) is on stream from just 1,750 rpm, while maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp arrives at 4,400 rpm.

Mild hybrid technology with a 48V starter-generator increases dynamism and efficiency.

The inclusion of mild hybrid technology allows the engine to build power with an even greater sense of urgency. The 48V starter-generator fitted in the new BMW M models creates an electric boost effect that instantly puts an additional 8 kW/11 hp on tap. This extra input augments power delivery under hard acceleration and increases efficiency at regular speeds. The electrical power required here is stored in a 48V battery that is charged by recuperating energy under braking or on the overrun. Plus, additional energy can be supplied to the 48V battery by raising the engine’s load point.

The power generated in this way assists the engine when travelling at a constant speed, too, meaning it can operate within an efficiency-optimised load range as often as possible. As a result, there are fewer spikes in fuel consumption. The mild hybrid technology has the additional benefit of improving the operation of the Auto Start Stop and coasting functions. The 48V generator allows the engine to be deactivated with very little vibration and restarted smoothly during brief stops at junctions or in traffic jams. When braking, the engine can be switched off at speeds below 15 km/h (9 mph) already. The coasting function available when the Driving Experience Control switch is set to ECO PRO or COMFORT mode also shuts the engine down completely, creating further potential for lowering fuel consumption.

M Sport exhaust system generates stirring soundtrack, exhaust gas treatment complies with the Euro 6d emissions standard.

The straight-six diesel engine in the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring backs its exhilarating power delivery with a highly distinctive aural accompaniment. Both models are equipped as standard with an M Sport exhaust system whose rear silencer culminates in a pair of trapezoidal tailpipes.

With a view to minimising emissions, the diesel engine in the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring includes an efficient low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation circuit and an extremely powerful three-way high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation circuit. Added to which, the two-stage NOX exhaust re-treatment system fitted as standard by BMW in diesel-engined models since 2012 has been further developed. The close-to-engine component of the exhaust gas treatment system with BMW BluePerformance technology comprises a diesel oxidation catalyst and an SCR coating in the diesel particulate filter. A second SCR catalyst has been integrated at the exit of the close-to-engine system to minimise nitrogen oxide emissions (NOX). The new BMW M models in the BMW 3 Series range therefore comply with the requirements of the Euro 6d emissions standard not due to come into force until 2021.

Sublime power transfer: eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, BMW xDrive and M Sport differential as standard.

The powerful straight-six diesel hooks up as standard with the latest-generation eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, whose ratio spacing is perfectly attuned to the power unit’s performance characteristics. As well as super-sharp gear shifts, the transmission stands out with its optimised hydraulic control system, low converter slip and effective damping of rotational irregularities. Shift paddles on the steering wheel enable lightning-fast manual interventions in the gear selection process. There is also a Launch Control function for accelerating off the line with full dynamic intent.

The intelligent all-wheel-drive system in the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring enables fully variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear wheels using an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case. Working in tandem with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, BMW xDrive reacts to changes in the driving situation with great precision and in a fraction of a second, maximising traction, agility and handling stability in all weather and road surface conditions, and when the driver explores the car’s sporting capabilities. The system’s rear-biased setup helps to produce the driving experience expected of an M car, and is especially pronounced with the Driving Experience Control switch set to SPORT or SPORT+ mode. Judicious apportioning of even more power to the rear wheels increases turn-in agility, in particular.

The M Sport differential for the rear axle – another standard feature linked with both DSC and the all-wheel-drive system – ensures power is transferred to the road with even greater precision. The fully variable locking function is able to limit speed equalisation between the inside and outside wheel through corners so that the car’s agility and cornering prowess rise to new levels under hard driving. This helps the driver to power out of bends with extra dynamic verve. In situations where the road surface offers differing levels of adhesion for the left and right rear wheels, the M Sport differential increases traction and handling stability by preventing slip at the wheel struggling for grip.

Standard: M Sport suspension and variable sport steering.

Like the engine and power transmission tech, the chassis systems on board the BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring are designed to deliver supreme performance. Both models are equipped as standard with M Sport suspension, which extracts the full dynamic handling potential offered by the double-joint spring strut front axle / five-link rear axle combination on the new BMW 3 Series to exhilarating effect. The M Sport package brings a ten-millimetre drop in ride height, M-specific elastokinematics and lift-related dampers. The latter combine extra hydraulic damping on rebound at the front axle with a compression-limiting system at the rear, enabling continuously variable, progressive adjustment of damper firmness in response to spring travel. Vibrations experienced during dynamic cornering or on bumpy road surfaces can therefore be smoothed out with unruffled assurance.

Alternatively, customers can opt for Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers. This system of damper control offers extremely finely metered spring and damping responses and adapts constantly to both driving style and road surface conditions. The compression and rebound stages are tweaked independently of one another to match the situation at hand. The damping characteristics can be adjusted using the Driving Experience Control switch. SPORT and SPORT+ modes optimise dynamic driving and create a noticeable contrast to the more comfort-oriented damper responses in COMFORT and ECO PRO modes.

Both the standard M Sport suspension and optional Adaptive M suspension join forces with variable sport steering, whose Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance helps to give the cars unshakable straight-line poise and accurate turn-in through dynamically taken corners. The variable ratio adjusts to changes in the steering angle, further enhancing comfort. It allows drivers to perform low-speed manoeuvres with minimal steering wheel movement and without changing their grip on the wheel, at the same time as increasing agility on twisty sections of road.

M Sport brakes and M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres.

Outstanding stopping power and a pointedly sporty setup – headlined by short pedal travel and a distinct pressure point – are the defining characteristics of the M Sport brakes (also standard). Four-piston fixed callipers and 348-millimetre discs at the front wheels and single-piston floating callipers with 345-millimetre discs at the rear form the basis for safe, supremely assured handling, while blue-painted callipers bearing the M logo add a visual flourish.

Rounding off the chassis highlights on the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring are 18‑inch M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres measuring 225/45 R 18 at the front and 255/40 R 18 at the rear. 19‑inch M light-alloy wheels in three designs can be found on the options list alongside 19‑inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels, again with mixed-size tyres. The 19‑inch M light-alloy wheels are also available with high-performance tyres.

M‑specific design features for the exterior and interior.

Signature BMW M exterior design features help to give the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring a distinctive look that re-asserts their outstanding performance capabilities. The front apron, side skirts and rear styling of both models have been crafted to fulfil functional requirements in terms of cooling air supply and aerodynamics. The new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan adds a body-coloured M rear spoiler to the mix. The bespoke design elements on both models also include a mesh-design BMW kidney grille and trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes. BMW Individual High-gloss Shadowline trim and a Cerium Grey metallic finish for the exterior mirror caps, the air intake trim in the front bumper, the surface of the BMW kidney grille mesh and its surround, the tailpipes, and the model badge add to the exclusive appearance of the BMW M duo.

The interior’s styling and equipment are focused entirely on maximising enjoyment of the intense driving experience served up by the car. The standard sports seats for the driver and front passenger are upholstered in an M-specific combination of Sensatec and Alcantara with contrast quilting in Blue, while an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and shift paddles, M pedals, M-specific floor mats and interior trim strips in Aluminium Tetragon with accent strips in Pearl-effect Chrome bring further touches of sporting flair to the interior.

As well as bespoke powertrain / chassis technology and M-specific design features, the standard equipment roster for the BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring also includes three-zone automatic climate control (with separate operation of the temperature and ventilation settings both for the driver and front passenger side and the rear compartment), ambient lighting, extended storage and an automatically dimming rear-view mirror. Also featured as standard in the new BMW M models are Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, BMW Live Cockpit Plus complete with navigation system and 8.8-inch Control Display, and the Connected Package Plus including Real Time Traffic Information, Remote Services, Concierge Services and Apple CarPlay preparation.

Update of the technical data of all BMW series:

The values are already based on the test cycle according to the new WLTP regulation and are translated back into NEDC-equivalent values in order to allow a comparison between vehicles.

Please find attached specifications of the BMW 3 Series Sedan M340d xDrive, valid from 02/2020.

Munich. The new BMW 3 Series range has taken on a more sporting flavour than ever before, as the presence of two top-class athletes at the sharp end of the line-up clearly illustrates. From November 2019, the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 7.4 – 7.0 l/100 km [38.2 – 40.4 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 168 – 160 g/km) will be joined in the range by the BMW M340i xDrive Touring (fuel consumption combined: 7.6 – 7.2 l/100 km [37.2 – 39.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 172 – 163 g/km). Powertrain and chassis technology developed with race track expertise from BMW M GmbH, distinctive design cues, exclusive standard specification and a cockpit created for the enjoyment of driving pleasure at its most intense treat those on board to a performance experience head and shoulders above anything else in the midsize premium segment. From November 2019, the Sedan and Touring models will also be available in BMW M340i First Edition guise. Limited to 340 units in each case, the First Edition will include particularly enticing design and equipment features.

The new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring represent a highly concentrated distillation of the sporting essence that enshrines the 3 Series as the definitive BMW and has set it apart from the competition for over 40 years. The original BMW 3 Series made its mark at launch in 1975 with its strikingly agile handling qualities. And the Touring model – which took to the stage for the first time with the arrival of the second-generation “3” – combined its trailblazing versatility with signature BMW dynamics. Powerful engines (most notably of the six-cylinder in-line variety), consistently upgraded chassis technology and the all-wheel-drive system first introduced on the 3 Series have been serving up a matchless driving experience ever since.

In the model’s latest incarnation, BMW M adds extra depth to the dynamic potency at hand. A 275 kW/374 hp straight-six unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology, an M Sport differential, M Sport suspension including variable sport steering and M Sport brakes, plus bespoke M exterior features with optimised aerodynamic properties form a flawlessly composed overall package designed to maximise performance. The new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan powers from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds, the new BMW M340i xDrive Touring in 4.5 seconds. This makes both models half a second quicker than the range-topping variants of the outgoing 3 Series.

Exceptional power: six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops 275 kW/374 hp.

The six-cylinder in-line engine developed exclusively for the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring stands out with its instantaneous power delivery and appetite for revs, combined with the smoothness for which BMW engines are renowned and unrivalled levels of efficiency for its output class. The 3.0-litre power unit features an aluminium crankcase with a closed-deck construction and a likewise alloy cylinder head. Weight-minimised pistons and con rods and a crankshaft made from forged steel increase internal engine efficiency. Frictional losses are reduced through a process known as ‘form honing’ for the cylinder bores in the crankcase and by means of their wire-arc sprayed steel coating.

The new straight-six generates 275 kW/374 hp, an increase of 35 kW/48 hp on the engine powering the previous range-topping models, while peak torque is up by 50 Nm (37 lb-ft) to 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). Its M TwinPower Turbo technology includes a twin-scroll turbocharger with indirect charge air cooling integrated into the intake system, latest-generation High Precision Injection direct petrol injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing for the intake and exhaust sides. Integrating the turbocharging system into the cast-steel manifold results in a remarkably compact design and, at the same time, means the exhaust flow only has to travel a short distance, allowing charge pressure to develop rapidly from low revs. The turbine’s responsiveness is further enhanced by a reduction in the mass moment of inertia of some 25 per cent. And a wide-opening, electrically controlled wastegate helps to keep emissions down. The maximum operating pressure of the direct injection system, with its cantilevered injectors, has been increased from 200 to 350 bar. This optimises fuel metering and minimises the engine’s emissions. 

M Technic Package with optimised cooling system available as an option for the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan.

The highly efficient cooling system in the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring keeps the engine, transmission and brakes at their ideal operating temperature not only in everyday driving, but also when the cars are pushed to their sporting extremes. It comprises a high-temperature and a low-temperature circuit, plus indirect charge air cooling. A split-cooling valve makes it possible to temporarily shut off crankcase cooling, thereby optimising warm-up behaviour. Also available as an option for the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan is the M Technic Package, which adds two remote coolant radiators to meet the particularly high demands placed on temperature management at the outer limits of sporty driving – especially in high ambient temperatures.

Standard M Sport exhaust system generates emotionally rich soundtrack.

The new six-cylinder in-line engine delivers its prodigious power to a highly distinctive backing track afforded even greater resonance by the standard M Sport exhaust system. The flap-controlled system hits a particularly rich and thrilling note when SPORT or SPORT+ mode is engaged using the Driving Experience Control switch. The sound accompanying the burgeoning swell of engine power creates a spine-tingling acoustic experience for the occupants of the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring. The dual-branch, twin-tailpipe exhaust system incorporates two petrol particulate filters, enabling the BMW M duo to satisfy the stipulations of the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard.

Eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, intelligent all-wheel drive and M Sport differential as standard.

The new straight-six power unit teams up as standard with the latest-generation eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, standout features of which include an optimised hydraulic control system, low converter slip, effective damping of rotational irregularities and extremely sporty gear shifts. The ratio spacing is perfectly attuned to the engine’s performance characteristics, and so lends itself to pulsating bursts of speed, while enhancing both driving comfort and efficiency. The selector lever and standard shift paddles on the steering wheel can both be used to assume manual control of the gear selection process. There is also a Launch Control function for accelerating off the line with maximum dynamic intent.

The intelligent all-wheel-drive system in the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring enables fully variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear wheels using an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case. BMW xDrive works in tandem with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system and reacts to changes in the driving situation with great precision and in a fraction of a second, maximising traction, agility and handling stability in all weather and road surface conditions, and when the cars’ sporting capabilities are put to the test. The system’s rear-biased setup helps to produce the driving experience expected of an M car, and is especially pronounced with the Driving Experience Control switch set to SPORT or SPORT+ mode. The strategic apportioning of even more power to the rear wheels increases agility when turning into corners, in particular.

The new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and new BMW M340i xDrive Touring are also equipped with the M Sport differential as standard. The electronically controlled, fully variable locking function in the rear differential brings about an appreciable improvement in traction and cornering prowess and also boosts directional stability and agility. The locking effect generated by an electric motor limits speed equalisation between the inside and outside rear wheel when cornering, allowing the driver to power out of bends with extraordinary dynamic verve. Governed by the DSC system, the locking function for the rear differential also improves traction and power transmission when driving on road surfaces with differing levels of grip for the left and right rear wheels by preventing a wheel from spinning when it is struggling for purchase. Together with BMW xDrive all-wheel drive, this ensures power is channelled onto the road to maximum agility- and dynamism-enhancing effect.

M Sport suspension and variable sport steering.

The chassis technology developed for the new BMW 3 Series range has all the tools to deliver extremely sporty handling characteristics. With their minimised weight and maximised rigidity, the components of the double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle sharpen cornering dynamics and steering precision, as do the wide tracks and optimum wheel camber settings. The M Sport suspension included as standard on the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and new BMW M340i xDrive Touring lowers their ride height by ten millimetres, and features M-specific elastokinematic properties and lift-related dampers. The damper control configuration making its debut in the new BMW 3 Series reduces body movement perceptibly when smoothing out vibrations caused by bumpy road surfaces and dynamic cornering. The result is sporty, authoritative handling. This setup adds extra hydraulic damping on rebound at the front axle and a compression-limiting system at the rear. It is continuously variable and adjusts the damper firmness progressively according to changing spring travel.

Customers also have the option of Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers. These dampers respond adaptively to road surface conditions and driving style in order to eliminate undesired body movement. To this end, the compression and rebound stages are both adjusted continuously and independently of one another. This enables finely metered spring and damping responses, supplying the driver with only relevant information about the road surface. Damping characteristics can be adjusted via the Driving Experience Control switch. SPORT and SPORT+ modes optimise the cars’ ability to provide dynamic handling, creating a noticeable contrast to the more comfort-oriented damper responses in COMFORT and ECO PRO modes.

Variable sport steering is another element of the M Sport suspension and Adaptive M suspension packages. Combining Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance with a variable ratio that adjusts to changes in the steering angle, it helps to give the cars superb straightline poise while also lending itself to effortless low-speed turning and manoeuvring. The variable sport steering’s sharp, precise response enhances agility on turn-in, too.

M Sport brakes and M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres.

Outstanding stopping power is delivered by the likewise standard M Sport brakes, whose extremely sporty setup is headlined by short pedal travel and a distinct pressure point. This braking system features a particularly direct pedal ratio together with a special hydraulic configuration comprising four-piston fixed callipers and 348-millimetre discs at the front wheels and single-piston floating callipers with 345-millimetre discs at the rear. The blue-painted callipers bear the M logo. When specified with the optional M Technic Package, the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan comes equipped with bespoke M Sport brakes, whose four-piston fixed callipers at the front wheels exert their stopping power on larger 374-millimetre discs.

The new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring ride as standard on bespoke 18-inch M light-alloy wheels shod with mixed-size tyres measuring 225/45 R 18 at the front and 255/40 R 18 at the rear. Likewise model-specific 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in three designs can be found on the options list along with 19-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels, again with mixed-size tyres. The high-performance tyres available as an option for the 19-inch M light-alloy wheels enable highly effective transmission of longitudinal and lateral forces.

M-specific design features with optimised aerodynamic properties, top-class standard specification.

The new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and new BMW M340i xDrive Touring waste no time in showcasing their superior performance qualities with a number of standalone, M-specific design features. The front apron, side skirts and rear end have all been crafted to optimise supply of cooling air and the cars’ aerodynamic properties. The bespoke design elements also include the mesh-design BMW kidney grille and trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes. The new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan also sports a body-coloured M rear spoiler. BMW Individual High-gloss Shadowline trim and the Cerium Grey metallic finish for the exterior mirror caps, the air intake trim in the front bumper, the surface of the BMW kidney grille mesh and its surround, the tailpipes and the model badge all add to the exclusive look.

M-specific design and equipment features inside both models help to focus the occupants’ attention on the dynamic driving experience laid on for them. Standard appointments include sports seats for the driver and front passenger upholstered in an M-specific combination of Sensatec and Alcantara with contrast quilting in Blue, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and shift paddles, a BMW Individual headliner in Anthracite, M pedals, M-specific floor mats and interior trim strips in Aluminium Tetragon with accent strips in Pearl-effect Chrome. ‘M340i’ lettering appears in the digital instrument cluster and also adorns the front door sill plates.

As well as their bespoke powertrain and chassis technology and model-specific exterior and interior design features, the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan and BMW M340i xDrive Touring are also equipped as standard with three-zone automatic climate control (including separate control of the temperature and ventilation settings both for the driver and front passenger side and the rear passenger compartment), ambient lighting, extended storage and an automatically dimming rear-view mirror. Other items on the standard equipment roster for the high-performance siblings include Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, BMW Live Cockpit Plus complete with navigation system and an 8.8-inch Control Display, and the Connected Package Plus including Real Time Traffic Information, Remote Services, Concierge Services and Apple CarPlay preparation.

Taking pole position: the BMW M340i First Edition.

An exclusive special-edition version of the two range-topping models will also be offered from the launch of the new BMW M340i xDrive Touring in November 2019. The BMW M340i First Edition will be available in both Sedan and Touring guise and offered in selected markets – including Italy, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, the Middle East, Canada, Mexico and Brazil. The limited run of 340 units of each model version will come with a selection of exceptionally attractive design and equipment features.

The BMW Individual paint finish in Frozen Dark Grey metallic, BMW Individual High-gloss Shadowline trim with extended features and 19-inch M light-alloy wheels mark the Edition models out clearly as the pinnacle of sportiness and exclusivity. Moving inside, BMW Individual Merino full leather trim in an exclusive Fjord Blue/Silverstone bi-colour variant, a leather-covered BMW Individual instrument panel and M seat belts create an inimitable cabin ambience. BMW Individual interior trim elements in High-gloss Aluminium weave and with “M340i First Edition 1/340” badging add the finishing touches.

The new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 10.0 - 6.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 229 – 162 g/km)*, the new BMW 3 Series Touring (combined fuel consumption: 7.5-4.5 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 170–118 g/km)* and the revised BMW X1 (combined fuel consumption: 6.8-4.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 155–107 g/km)* are three new members that supplement the BMW model family. As different as the three series might appear at first glance, they share the sporty, elegant look and outstanding driving dynamics that are typical of BMW. An extensive range of M Performance Parts is available to choose from as Original BMW Accessories right from market launch in order to be lend emphasis to these features based on individual preferences. Customers can further enhance the sporty character of their vehicle with components directly inspired by and derived from motor racing.

The extensive racing expertise and long-standing experience of BMW M GmbH feeds into the development of all M Performance Parts. All components are perfectly matched – both with each other and with the specific properties of each model. In this way, they not only give the vehicle concerned a more striking, dynamic appearance: the M Performance Parts also meet functional criteria in many cases, for example impacting positively on the car's aerodynamic properties or supporting lightweight construction.

M Performance Parts for the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé.
Exclusive sporty flair and thrilling dynamic performance.

The new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé is the latest model of the BMW 8 Series to be premiered. After the successful market launch of the BMW 8 Series Coupé and the BMW 8 Series Convertible, BMW now continues its model offensive in the luxury performance segment. The distinctive character of this sports four-door sports model is reflected in particular in its elegant and extravagant design. An extended wheelbase gives the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé generous space at the rear as well as a boost in terms of ride comfort. What is more, the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé combines dynamic lines and athletic proportions with impressive performance properties. In order to give the car's sporting qualities even greater emphasis, a range of model-specific M Performance Parts are available from market launch.

Exterior components made of carbon fibre for a refined appearance.
The M Performance carbon fibre front ornamental grille and M Performance carbon fibre side ornamental grille in exposed carbon fibre look ensure an individually striking front view in the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé, enhancing the car’s sporty, exclusive impression overall.

Another visual highlight is provided by the M Performance carbon fibre exterior mirror caps, crafted elaborately by hand: these are coated several times before being given a high-gloss polish to obtain their distinctive look.

20-inch wheels and matching wheel bags.
Both the appearance and the driving dynamics of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé benefit from the 20-inch M Performance light alloy wheels offered in two designs. The 20-inch M Performance forged wheel Multi-Spoke 732 M is offered exclusively in the bicolor look Night Gold burnished and gloss-milled. The likewise weight-optimised, forged 20-inch M Performance wheel 763 M in Frozen Gold has a milled M Performance inscription on the rim flange and is supplied as a complete wheel set with sports tyres. The latter boost driving dynamics precision, thereby enhancing the car’s sporty drive feel. Meanwhile, the M Performance wheel bags are recommended for wheel transport and storage – and they recreate a racing atmosphere in home garage, too. They not only provide protection from soiling but also guarantee clear allocation of tyres on the vehicle due to their markings.

M Performance 19-inch brake system with red brake calipers.
The M Performance 19-inch brake system with its large inner-vented and perforated brake discs in lightweight construction ensure an even further improved deceleration effect in extreme conditions. The 4-piston brake calipers made of aluminium on the front axle are designed consistently for optimised weight. The configuration and resilience of the brakes emphasise the sporty flair of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé in dynamic and demanding situations on the road. The M Performance 19-inch brake system can be recognised visually by the brake calipers finished in red.

Sporty, elegant look in the interior too.
A wide range of M Performance components is available to choose from for the interior of the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé as well, ensuring an even sportier and more personal feel on the inside of the vehicle. The M Performance steering wheel with extremely pronounced Alcantara grip area including thumbrests and special underlay creates a pure race track feeling, for example. It also has a red central marking in the 12 o’clock position as well as a silver-grey, hand crafted cross-stitch seam. The M Performance steering wheel can be additionally fitted with the M Performance carbon fibre steering wheel trim, and M Performance carbon fibre shift paddles are also available to boost the car’s motor racing look. They feature carbon fabric instead of the standard chrome surface. In the footwell of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé, M Performance floor mats likewise underscore the sporty character of the car with an M Performance inscription and a pennant in the hallmark M colours. A surround in leather look with a decorative seam in contrasting colours rounds off their high-end appearance. With their asymmetrical, three-dimensional rubber profiles, the stainless steel pedal rests and stainless steel footrest are also derived from motor racing.

BMW LED door projectors are available to replace the standard entry light. In addition to the BMW logo and the BMW M logo, the slide set also includes three different M Performance logos. These can be interchanged at will. The stylish M Performance key holder ensures the key of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé is excellently protected at all times. At the same time, the material mix of Alcantara and carbon fibre ensures a high-quality feel.

M Performance Parts for the new BMW 3 Series Touring.
Technology inspired by motor racing and a striking look.#

An extensive programme of M Performance Parts is available for the market launch of the BMW 3 Series Touring – the latest generation of the sporty premium five-door mid-range model. They are offered as part of the range of Original BMW Accessories.

Optimised aerodynamics for an even sportier drive response.
A package of M Performance aerodynamic and exterior components is available for the new BMW 3 Series Touring that consists of six items. While the M Performance exterior mirror caps are offered solely in carbon fibre, the M Performance rear diffuser is available in either carbon fibre or high-gloss black. All other components in the package have an exclusive high-gloss black finish, permanently underscoring the five-door model's sporty appearance. Components such as the M Performance rear spoiler and the M Performance rear diffuser optimise the air flow around the car. This results in reduced uplift and an improved drive response. One particularly attractive feature is the M Performance carbon fibre exterior mirror caps with their characteristic look in motor racing style. The car’s sporty character is further underscored by the M Performance side sill wrapping Frozen Black with M Performance inscription. A distinctive visual accentuation for the exterior is also provided by the M Performance front ornamental grille Iconic Glow: when the vehicle is opened and closed, it lights up the radiator grilles and front area in a unique manner.

Wheels in 18 inches and M Performance 18-inch brake system.
The 18-inch M Performance light alloy wheel Double Spoke Styling 796 is weight-optimised, ensuring even further improved driving dynamics in the new BMW 3 Series Touring. Meanwhile, M Performance wheel bags offer optimum protection when transporting and storing the wheels. The brake caliper of the M Performance 18-inch brake system provides a perfect visual match for the light-alloy wheel finished in black matt. At the same time, the sports brake enhances the braking effect in extreme conditions.

Carbon fibre components on the inside, too.
The M Performance steering wheel with Alcantara grip area, red central marking at the 12 o’clock position and silver-grey, hand-sewn cross-stitch seam offers motor racing feeling you can touch. Various carbon fibre components are also available for the interior: the M Performance carbon fibre shift paddles, the M Performance carbon fibre steering wheel trim with Alcantara insert and the M Performance carbon fibre interior trims. The M Performance gear lever knob with Alcantara gaiter is a sporty highlight in the central console that provides distinctive emphasis for the manual transmission. The knob has been completely redesigned in ergonomic style, offering functional grip surfaces and an illuminated shift scheme.

The M Performance floor mats with decorative seam in contrasting colours are another attractive interior feature available for the new BMW 3 Series Touring, while the stainless steel pedal rests and stainless steel footrest likewise underscore the car’s sporty character.

LED door projects and key holder.
Thanks to the BMW LED door projectors, even getting into the car is a distinctive experience. With the M Performance slide set it is possible to have the BMW M logo or other sports-style graphics projected onto the ground next to the vehicle. One stylish and functional accessory is the M Performance key holder for the BMW 3 Series Touring. The key holder is made of Alcantara with carbon insert and ensures the vehicle key is permanently protected from scratching and damage.

M Performance Parts for the new BMW X1.
Individual look and sporty driving dynamics.

The latest revision of the new BMW X1 carries forward the success story of this model. Its design has been refined and is now considerably more striking, powerful and sporty. Customers who wish to emphasise the vehicle’s sporty character even further can choose from an extensive programme of M Performance Parts for the BMW X1.

Enhanced appearance with wrapping and carbon parts.
The dynamic charisma of the new BMW X1 is given significant visual emphasis by the M Performance side sill wrapping. The wraps extend the car’s proportions, giving the new BMW X1 an extremely dynamic look. Another eye-catcher is the M Performance carbon fibre exterior mirror caps, which are elaborately crafted by hand. Their high-tech character conveys a sense of individualism and sporty flair at the same time. The M front ornamental grille in high-gloss black lends an even more striking touch to the front section.

Weight-optimised light alloy wheels.
One highlight among the M Performance Parts available for the new BMW X1 is the 20-inch summer complete wheel set Styling 717 M, available solely as an accessory. Weight-optimised by means of flowforming technology, this light alloy wheel comes in a matt black finish. The M Performance wheel bags protect the wheels during transport and storage.

M Performance steering wheel inspired by motor racing.
In the interior, the M Performance steering wheel highlights the dynamic qualities of the new BMW X1. The steering wheel has pronounced grip areas covered with Alcantara. A red marking in the 12 o'clock position emphasises the link with motor racing, as does the hand-sewn cross-stitch seam. M Performance steering wheel trim elements are also available in carbon fibre/Alcantara or carbon fibre/leather. In the footwell, the M Performance floor mats add a touch of sporty flair. A discreet customisation option for the BMW X1 is provided by the BMW LED door projectors, which replace the standard entry light and project motifs from the M Performance slide set onto the ground. Finally, the M Performance key holder provides elegant and functional damage protection for the vehicle key of the new BMW X1.

Please find attached on location pictures and footage of the International Media Launch of the all-new BMW 3 Series Sedan in Portimao, Portugal.

Munich. The new BMW 3 Series Sedan is picking up more speed on its way to its market launch in the spring of 2019. The BMW M GmbH is now presenting an extremely dynamic model variant of the new sports sedan. The BMW M340i xDrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 7.5 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 172 g/km*) is powered by a newly developed straight six-cylinder petrol engine with 275 kW/374 hp. Together, high engine performance, M-specific suspension technology and intelligent four-wheel drive provide for outstanding driving dynamics that are unparalleled in the midsize segment. The exceptional sporty character is underscored by model-specific design and equipment features. The Los Angeles Auto Show (30 November – 9 December 2018) will serve as the setting for the world premiere of the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan. The market launch will commence in the USA in July 2019, followed by Europe in July.

Acceleration, cornering dynamics, agility, precision, braking – the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan is setting new benchmarks in all areas relevant to driving dynamics. It makes consistent use in particular of the vehicle concept of the BMW 3 Series Sedan, which is oriented towards sporting driving pleasure and comprises a low centre of gravity, optimised weight, well-balanced axle load distribution as well as increased body rigidity and uprated suspension mountings. Moreover, the suspension technology and aerodynamics are precisely tuned to the new power unit’s high performance characteristics. In addition, the M Sport suspension, variable sports steering, an M Sport differential, the M Sport brake system and 18-inch M light alloy wheels with mixed tyres are all standard equipment features for the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan.

Straight six-cylinder engine with superior power development and characteristic sound.
The power plant developed for the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan raises the vehicle’s characteristics in areas of performance, response, revving power, running smoothness and efficiency, so typical of BMW straight six-cylinder engines, to a new level. The 3-litre engine features an aluminium crankcase and an aluminium cylinder head. The turbocharging system, which was constructed according to the TwinScroll principle, has also been redeveloped. The integration of the compact steel exhaust manifold and turbocharger effectuates rapid boost pressure development. A mass moment of inertia reduced by around 25 percent enhances turbine response and a wide opening, electrically controlled waste gate contributes towards better emission values. Fuel supply is performed by means of High Precision Injection technology, the injectors of which now operate at an injection pressure increased to up to 350 bar. The current version of M TwinPower Turbo technology is complemented by fully variable valve control VALVETRONIC and variable camshaft control Double VANOS.

The drive technology, which has been extensively redeveloped and numerous details of which have been completely renewed, provides the six-cylinder with an increase in output by 35 kW/48 hp to 275 kW/374 hp vs. the most powerful engine previously used for the BMW 3 Series, as well as an increase in maximum torque by 50 Nm to 500 Nm. As a result, the car has also clearly gained in sporting prowess. The BMW M340i xDrive Sedan completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds – half a second faster than the top-of-the-range model of the previous generation of the BMW 3 Series Sedan.

Power development and speed increase are accompanied by the characteristic sound of the straight six-cylinder engine, which has gained additional presence thanks to the M Sport exhaust unit. Above all in the SPORT and SPORT+ modes, which can be activated via the Driving Experience Control switch, the valve-controlled exhaust system generates a particularly distinctive sound. The sound development that accompanies the engine’s dynamic power delivery is also intensively perceptible inside the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan. The dual-pipe M Sport exhaust system is fitted with two petrol particulate filters, enabling the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan to meet the requirements of the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard. Combined fuel consumption is 7.5 litres per 100 kilometre* and CO₂ emissions are172 grams per kilometre.*

Munich. To coincide with the presentation of the new BMW 3 Series Limousine (combined fuel consumption: 6,1 – 4,1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 139 – 108 g/km) * an extensive range of M Performance Parts is also being introduce as Original BMW Accessories for the new edition of this premium middle class car. With components directly inspired by and derived from motor racing for the interior and exterior as well as for the drive system and chassis engineering, customers will be able to systematically enhance the sports feel of their BMW 3 Series vehicle as they wish. The development of M Performance Parts always draws on the vast racing expertise of BMW M GmbH. All components are perfectly matched – both with each other and with the specific properties of each model. On the one hand, they give the vehicle a more dynamic and striking appearance, but they also have a functional advantage, for example, positively influencing the car’s aerodynamic properties or augmenting its lightweight construction concept.

Exterior package for a sharper appearance and optimised aerodynamics.
The varied package of M Performance aerodynamic and exterior components for the new BMW 3 Series Limousine comprises no fewer than ten items. The individual components in high-gloss black or carbon-fibre not only underline the vehicle’s sporty appearance but also enhance the four-door car’s talents in terms of driving dynamics. For example, the M Performance front splitter or the M Performance front splitter pro, the M Performance rear spoiler and M Performance rear diffuser – available in a choice of carbon, black high-gloss or black matt – optimise the air stream around the vehicle while reducing uplift. This leads to improved road holding and a more dynamic driving response. The M Performance exterior mirror caps made of carbon fibre are a particularly attractive eye catcher in the way they display the typical texture of carbon-reinforced plastic. As with all carbon-fibre components, they are made by hand, sealed with clear lacquer, and then mirror-polished to give them their impressive depth effect. Their sporty flair is further enhanced by the M Performance side sill films. They stretch over the entire lower sill and contain the M Performance branding inscription. The back lights, grey tinted when viewed from the rear, and in the side section reminiscent of M Performance graphics, represent a particularly striking highlight, as do the M Performance tailpipes. They also feature high corrosion resistance and a long service life, thanks to their material mix of titanium and carbon fibre.

M Performance 18" braking system and 18-inch and 20-inch wheels.
The M Performance 18" braking system is recognisable from the red colour of the brake calipers. Not only does this give it an attractive appearance, but the sports brakes also feature considerably enhanced deceleration performance. Compared to the serial-production brakes, the 18-inch brake discs are bigger, perforated, grooved, and of lightweight construction. They have a higher thermal resistance, for which reason they remain extremely stable even under extreme conditions. The four-piston brake calipers are made of aluminium, in line with the consistent lightweight construction concept of the vehicle.

To start with, the range of M Performance wheel sets will comprise four designs in two sizes at the market launch of the new BMW 3 Series Limousine. The 18-inch matt black M Performance light alloy double spoke 796M wheels are suitable for use both in summer and winter. In 20-inch size, the choice is between the M Performance forged cross-spoke 794 M bicolor wheels (jet black, burnished) and the 20" M Performance forged Y-spoke 795 M wheels, in either bicolor (ferric grey matt, gloss lathed) or jet black matt or black matt.

For storing and transporting the wheels, M Performance tyre bags are recommended. They provide protection against soiling, their markings ensure clear identification, and they radiate an extra motor racing atmosphere into the home garage.

Visual and tactile interior highlights.
Of course, motor racing sensations can be generated in the interior of the new BMW 3 Series Limousine as well. For example, the M Performance steering wheel, with its highly distinctive grip areas and large thumb rests, red centre marking at the ‘12 o’clock’ position, and silver-grey, hand-sewn cross-stitch seam. The racing look can be further enhanced by the carbon-fibre shift paddles (for models with Steptronic sport transmission) and the M Performance steering wheel trim panel made of carbon fibre with an Alcantara insert and M Performance inscription. To match this there is also the M Performance carbon-fibre interior trim, also with an open-pored structure.

In the footwell of the new BMW 3 Series Limousine, the M Performance foot mats emphasise sportiness, with the M Performance inscription and a flag in typical M colours, along with a leather-look surround including a decorative seam in contrasting colours. 

Drive analyser and camera holder for data and video recording
With the M Performance drive analyser, the driver of the new BMW 3 Series Limousine can record a range of driving data for subsequent analysis -  a function that is particularly useful above all on the race track. The system consists of an OBD stick that is plugged into the on-board diagnosis interface, and a smartphone app. The drive analyser is derived directly from motor racing and supplies the driver with all important driving dynamics data, as well as offering extensive professional recording and analysis capabilities. It is also possible to record trips with a smartphone video camera, including cumulative driving data and route calculation using GPS positioning data. BMW provides M Performance holders for action cameras, to enable optimum recording from a spectacular perspective when driving on the race track. For external recording, these are simply mounted to the front or rear towing ring; to make recordings in the vehicle interior, it is snapped into place in the base support of the Travel & Comfort system on the headrest of the drive or front passenger seat. It allows the camera to be turned through 360 degrees, to enable images to be made from numerous perspectives.

Attract attention with door projectors with BMW M motifs
Every time you enter or exit the vehicle, the BMW M logo or other M Performance-related motif can be projected onto the tarmac with an M Performance slide set for BMW LED door projectors. Just as stylish is the M Performance key wallet made of high-quality Alcantara with carbon-fibre insert, which can be permanently fixed to the car key with a socket head screw in M light blue to protect it from scratching or other damage.

In case of queries please contact:

Christophe Koenig,

Media Relations Manager

BMW X-Modelle, BMW Original Zubehör, Allrad Systeme.

Tel.: +49-89-382-56097

E-mail: Christophe.koenig@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2017, the BMW Group sold over 2,463,500 passenger vehicles and more than 164,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2017 was € 10.655 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.678 billion. As of 31 December 2017, the BMW Group had a workforce of 129,932 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview

Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

Munich. The new BMW X3 will be released in November, shortly after its world premiere at the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt. An extensive global campaign entitled “On a Mission” will accompany the launch of this successful model. Campaign highlights include a rousing TV spot with extreme athletes and a 360° virtual reality test drive on Mars, with continuation of the campaign in digital channels.

The “On a Mission” campaign presents the BMW X3 as free-spirited and independent, always ready to push the boundaries. The theme of venturing off the beaten track and discovering new horizons is underlined by the off-road character of the SAV and its ground-breaking innovations. A key idea is the passion that transforms a job or a hobby into a mission. This appeal to the emotions is a common thread throughout the campaign: BMW celebrates people who pursue their dreams with relentless passion – people who are on a mission.

“‘On a Mission’ pays tribute to a life full of passion, inner drive and true dedication. The BMW X3 brings this dynamic to the automotive world and guarantees a thrilling driving experience, no matter where your passion takes you,” explains Hildegard Wortmann, Senior Vice President Brand BMW.

From idea to media: Big data supports campaign development.

Campaign development started out with a widescale interdisciplinary big data analysis that gathered and evaluated information about different BMW X3 buyer groups. This allowed BMW to consider the interests and media use of its future customers already in the creative phase of the campaign. As a result, the BMW X3 campaign delivers highly-relevant content that appeals to a young and dynamic digital target audience and fits perfectly into their world of experience. However, rollout through the appropriate channels is just as important as the content itself. Social media and the brand’s own online presence will therefore be a priority for “On a Mission”.

On a mission to Mars.

The communications highlight of the campaign is clearly a very special test drive: Using virtual reality, the BMW X3 takes customers and fans on the world’s first test drive through the breath-taking scenery of Mars – quite literally pushing the boundaries. Spectacular images and evocative sounds transform the trip to Mars into an immersive experience. During a virtual reality drive across the atmospheric and ever-changing surface of the planet – reminiscent of a Hollywood film – different features of the BMW X3 are presented as part of the “BMW Personal Co-Pilot”.

The 360° experience can be enjoyed on all widely-available smartphones through YouTube or using VR glasses, and will be integrated into the BMW brand’s own online channels. The Mars mission will also be shown at selected BMW dealers and branches and integrated into brand events and mailings using Google Cardboard.

“With the BMW X3 Mars mission we once again offer our customers and fans a unique experience – something completely new they have never seen before,” says Uwe Dreher, head of Brand Communications BMW, BMW i, BMW M. “For me, that is how marketing should be: surprising, modern, with an entertaining wow effect.”

www.missiontomars.bmw (for VR devices)

TV spot and launch film with real-life extreme athletes.

The TV commercial features protagonists who live for their mission: The BMW X3 accompanies Swede Freddie Meadows as he ice-surfs in the Arctic; free mountain rider Martin Söderström on his daredevil ride across rocky ridges; and extreme campers Fatima Gil and Vicky Vega perched on the slopes of steep rock walls. The stunning natural surroundings showcase the off-road character and dynamic performance of the new BMW X3. That the TV spot uses only real-life extreme athletes, not actors, underlines the authenticity and passion of the powerful SAV.

The launch film, which will primarily be used for online communications, shows photographer Pablo Durana on a tour through the Chilean Andes with extreme mountain-biker Trond Hansen. As well as highlighting many aspects of the new BMW X3, it also features the SPECIALIZED for BMW Turbo Levo FSR 6Fattie mountain bike, an exclusive cooperation between BMW and premium bike manufacturer SPECIALIZED.

The TV commercial and launch film also provide the basis for a series of short clips that will run in all BMW-brand social media channels and digital advertising spaces. In this way, the activities “surfing”, “mountain biking”, “camping” and “art” can be targeted towards users with those interests to amplify the reach of the BMW X3.

The films’ protagonists are an integral part of all elements of the campaign and also appear in the print motifs. In this way, “On a Mission” creates a consistent presence with high recognition value across all channels. The campaign will also make use of the many protagonists’ own social media channels and their vast fan communities.

Unique vehicle configurator for Facebook.

Based on the Facebook Canvas ad, BMW has developed an extensive interactive vehicle visualiser, with a level of detail and range of functions not previously seen on this platform. Users have fun creating their own individual BMW X3 directly in the Facebook app, choosing their preferred design line, paint colour, wheel rims and interior configuration.

The visualiser consists of 64 nested individual Canvas ads. This was a major challenge for both planning and realisation. The visualiser will be rolled out through the international BMW Facebook account and local BMW markets. The interactive experience ends with an invitation to test-drive the new BMW X3.

“The visualiser on Facebook represents a totally new way for us to generate leads through social media,” explains Uwer Dreher. “Implementation with so many individual Canvas ads was definitely complex and challenging. But we are very proud to be able to offer our fans this unique feature.”

Mountain bikes and expeditions.

Exciting product collaborations and the BMW brand’s popular winter-sports activities, under the name “BMW Mountains”, will further enrich the campaign.

BMW Lifestyle and premium bike manufacturer SPECIALIZED will be presenting an exceptional mountain bike: a limited special edition of the Specialized Turbo Levo, the SPECIALIZED for BMW Turbo Levo FSR 6Fattie. The two premium brands share a unique passion for sporty dynamics, a love of innovative design and technologies, and constantly strive to reinvent themselves.

Under the “BMW Mountains” banner, the BMW X3 is supporting the “No Man’s Land” expedition of extreme skiers Matthias Mayr and Matthias Haunholder, as they attempt to become the first to ski down Mount Tyree in the Antarctic. The BMW X3 will be their trusty companion on the journey from Buenos Aires to Punta Arenas. Once they reach Antarctica, they will cover several hundred more kilometres on skis and by kite. BMW will follow the expedition with live feeds and stories in its own digital channels. A film about the adventures of the two extreme skiers will be released to the general public in 2018.

Successful member of the X family.

BMW created the mid-sized SAV (Sports Activity Vehicles) segment in 2003 with the BMW X3. More than 1.5 million units of the first two model generations have since been sold worldwide. The new BMW X3 is now set to continue this success story, with even more striking and dynamic styling and a luxurious interior. Like all members of the successful X family, it combines outstanding ride quality in all terrains with unlimited everyday practicality. The new BMW X3 also offers the highest level of connectivity and driver assistance systems. Ground-breaking innovations, which BMW combines under the name “BMW Personal CoPilot” and which are usually reserved for the business and luxury segments, are available in the mid-size class for the first time in the new BMW X3. The interior finish has also been significantly upgraded. Inside, the new X3 boasts nearly all the features of the new 5 Series and impresses with the high level of workmanship more familiar from the BMW 7 Series.

Agencies:

Lead – Kirshenbaum (US)

Mars Mission – Serviceplan

Canvas Ad – Jung von Matt

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Julian Hetzenecker
Communications BMW Group Sales Germany and BMW Group Marketing
BMW Group Business and Financial Communications
Telephone: +49 89 382 39229
Email: julian.hetzenecker@bmw.de

Micaela Sandstede
Press spokesperson BMW Group Sales Germany and BMW Group Marketing
BMW Group Business and Financial Communications
Telephone: +49 89 382 61611
Email: micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 31 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2016, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.367 million cars and 145,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax was approximately € 9.67 billion on revenues amounting to € 94.16 billion. As of 31 December 2016, the BMW Group had a workforce of 124,729 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview

Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

Contents.

1. BMW Connected – the personalised digital mobility companion from BMW – celebrates its premiere. European launch in August 2016
2. A commitment to development delivers ongoing reductions in emissions: The new-generation Efficient Dynamics engine family.
3. Battery technology – a core capability of the BMW Group.
4. Competence centre for eDrive technology : The BMW Group’s Dingolfing plant is the main production centre for electric motors and high-voltage batteries.
5. Paving the way for the mobility of the future: The list of achievements keeps on growing. The BMW i3 (94 Ah).
6. The best of two worlds: The BMW iPerformance models. The BMW 740e iPerformance, BMW 740Le iPerformance and BMW 740Le xDrive iPerformance.
7. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo.

Please find attached on location pictures of the international press event of the new BMW 330e in Garching/Munich from 25 - 29 January, 2016.

The presskit (SOC 03 September 2015) will be attached, too.

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.

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.

BMW has always been synonymous with driving pleasure in all vehicle classes. The fact that customers and fans also agree with this summation is once again confirmed by the readers’ poll conducted by German motoring magazine “sport auto”. Cars from the BMW Group received the top scores in four classes. The BMW 335i was voted the best sedan car up to € 50,000 for the third time in three years. The BMW M3 Sedan was the favorite among readers for the second year in a row in the sedans/estates up to € 100,000 class.

Also for the second time in a row, the BMW M235i took pole position in the category for coupés up to € 50,000. In the compact cars class, the BMW M135i easily succeeded in fighting off the competition. As in the previous year, the BMW M550d xDrive took second place in the diesel class, once again underlining the leading role of the BMW Group as a supplier of vehicles that combine sporty performance with maximum efficiency.

Double victory for M Performance automobiles.
In the compact class and in the coupés up to € 50,000, the BMW M135i (26.7 percent of the votes cast) and the BMW M235i Coupé (38.3 percent of the votes cast) once again beat off the competition. Both vehicles have a six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower turbo technology, ensuring spontaneous responsiveness, an exceptional thirst for revs and outstanding refinement (fuel consumption combined BMW M235i: 8.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 189 g/km; BMW M135i: 8.0 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 188 g/km*).

Triple win for the BMW 335i Sedan.
For the third time in a row, the readers of “sport auto” put the BMW 335i in top place in the sedans up to € 50,000 category. The key factor for the continuing success of the sports sedan is its in-line six-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower turbo technology. The 225 kW/306 hp in-line six-cylinder engine makes particularly impressive play with the typical BMW virtues of instantaneous responses, an exceptional thirst for revs and outstanding refinement. The combination of a turbocharger that operates according to the twin scroll principle with direct high precision injection and VALVETRONIC guarantees an unbeatably efficient balance between driving pleasure and fuel consumption (fuel consumption combined BMW 335i: 7.9 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 186 g/km*).

The defending title-holder BMW M3.

Garnering 39.4% of reader votes, the BMW M3 had no difficulty defending its title as best sedan up to € 100,000, actually managing to increase its share of the vote in its second year on the market. The fifth generation of the BMW M3 (fuel consumption combined: 8.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 204 g/km*) is powered by a newly developed six-cylinder in-line engine. The high-revving unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology offers maximum output of 317 kW/431 hp. Peak torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) is available across a broad rev band and exceeds the maximum offered by the previous BMW M3 by almost 40 percent. A rigorously applied lightweight design concept has brought about a weight reduction of around 80 kilograms. Fuel consumption and emissions are down by 25 percent. The BMW M3 Sedan takes just 4.1 seconds to sprint from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) – when fitted with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission – and also catches the eye as a strong performer out on the track as well as in everyday use.

The “sport auto Award” has been presented by German motoring magazine “sport auto” since 1980. It is one of the leading German awards for sporting cars and is highly coveted by manufacturers. In 2015 a total of 230 models were nominated in 30 series-production categories and a further 10 tuning classes. In this, the 23rd year of the awards, 13,601 readers took part in the poll via survey postcard, online survey or one of the “sport auto” digital channels.

Placings at a glance:

Winner – Compact Cars: BMW M135i.

Winner – Coupés up to € 50,000: BMW M235i Coupé.

Winner – Sedans/Estates up to € 50,000: BMW 335i.

Winner – Sedans/Estates up to € 100,000: BMW M3.

Second place – Diesel Cars: BMW M550d xDrive.

Second place – Convertibles up to € 50,000: BMW M235i Convertible

Second place – Convertibles up to € 100,000: BMW M4 Convertible

Second place – Coupés up to € 100,000: BMW M3 Coupé

Third place – Sedans up to € 100,000: BMW M5 30 Years

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2 emissions und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html. LeitfadenCO2 (GuidelineCO2) (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB).

* Fuel consumption figures were calculated based on the ECE test cycle, dependent on tire format.

Munich. Six wins thanks to Efficient Dynamics: with its current range of models and engines, BMW has achieved outstanding success in the 2014 "Green Mobility Trophy" awards presented by the automobile magazine "Auto Zeitung". Based on a reader survey, the awards were won by the Munich premium automobile manufacturer in six out of a total of seven categories. Three of these class victories were achieved by automobiles of the new BMW i brand, while two others went to the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition and the 4-cylinder petrol engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. The triumph was rounded off with BMW being voted the "Most environment-friendly brand" of the year. The vote recognises both consistent development work and the courage to pursue innovative concepts aimed at reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels on an ongoing basis by means of Efficient Dynamics.

13 733 "Auto Zeitung" readers took part in this year's vote. The BMW i3 achieved an especially impressive result. The purely electrically powered 5-seater won in two categories and attracted the highest share of the vote in the entire competition. It was named "Best electric car" with a clear 30 per cent share of the vote. And it won the "Best lightweight construction car" with a remarkable 31.1 per cent. These two results show that both BMW eDrive technology and the lightweight construction concept featuring a passenger cell made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and an aluminium chassis are regarded as sound solutions for sustainable mobility.

The plug-in hybrid sports car BMW i8 - developed according to the same engineering principle - likewise finished first. Having achieved third place in its class last year, this time round the BMW i8 was named "Best hybrid car" with 20.9 per cent of the vote - just a few weeks after its market launch.

BMW achieved two more class victories with conventional drive technology. The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition prevailed against 20 competitors to win the title of "Best economical diesel". The mid-range sedan is powered by a 120 kW/163 hp 4-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, accelerates in 8.0 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and has an average fuel consumption of 4.1 litres per 100 kilometres and a CO2 figure of 109 grams per kilometre on the EU test cycle. The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition impressed survey participants with this combination of driving pleasure and efficiency to gain 19.3 per cent of the vote, defending its title from last year. The current 4-cylinder petrol engines in the BMW engine portfolio secured an award with similarly unambiguous results. In the vote for the "Best downsizing engines", 18.7 per cent of readers chose the 2.0-litre engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and an output of up to 180 kW/245 hp.

Finally the diverse range of successful concepts and technologies for sustainable mobility is reflected in the result of the vote for the "Most environment-friendly brand". BMW clearly led the way in this category, too, with a share of 22.6 per cent of the vote. The combination of sporty flair and efficiency that is characteristic of the entire model program produced by the Munich-based premium automobile manufacturer thus gained BMW its sixth title of the 2014 "Green Mobility Trophy".

For further details on official fuel consumption figures, official specific CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at all sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/angebote/verlagsprodukte/leitfaden-kraftstoffverbrauch.html. ManualCO2 (PDF - 2.7 MB)

Munich. All good things come in threes: BMW picked up three titles at the "Auto Trophy 2013" - and did so for the third time in succession. This year's winning trio that impressed readers of the automobile magazine "Auto Zeitung" were the BMW 3 Series, the BMW i3 and the third generation of the BMW X5, all of which attracted the most votes in their respective category. The winners were announced yesterday at a festive award ceremony held at the "Classic Remise" in Düsseldorf. TV presenter Judith Rakers and "Auto Zeitung" editor-in-chief Volker Koerdt presented the three trophies to Dr. Ian Robertson, BMW AG Director of Sales and Marketing, and Dr. Herbert Diess, BMW AG Director of Development.

The BMW 3 Series was able to defend its title from last year, being voted once again by "Auto Zeitung" readers as the most popular mid-range automobile. Now available as a sedan, a Touring and a BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, this latest prize means the model continues its impressive series of prestigious distinctions and comparative test achievements. More than ever before, the BMW 3 Series has come to embody the very essence of driving pleasure, elegant design, comfort and innovative technology in the premium segment of its vehicle category.

The list of winners also featured two new models made by the premium Munich-based automobile manufacturer which were launched on the market just a few days ago. The BMW i3 was quick to assert itself in the "Electric cars" category, while the new BMW X5 won in the category "SUV over 30,000 euros" . Both models had already received distinctions just a few weeks beforehand at the "Golden Steering Wheel 2013" awards presented by "Bild am Sonntag" and "Auto Bild"

The BMW i3 has now also impressed "Auto Zeitung" readers with its revolutionary vehicle concept and visionary design. It is the first ever premium automobile in the world designed entirely to be run on electricity only. BMW eDrive technology, a passenger cell made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic and numerous innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services ensure that the BMW i3 makes sustainable, locally emissions-free mobility an experience defined by characteristic BMW driving pleasure that is perfectly suited to everyday travel.

The new BMW X5 also holds a powerful fascination with its distinctive interpretation of Sheer Driving Pleasure. In its latest model generation, the Sports Activity Vehicle once again sets standards in driving dynamics within its competitive environment. The new BMW X5 also offers a range of other strong points including optimised weight, further enhanced efficiency, extended space, unique versatility and the luxurious ambience of its interior. And by winning an "Auto Trophy 2013" award, the new BMW X5 perpetuates the tradition of its predecessors: the latter also gained instant success in the "Auto Zeitung" reader's vote.

Now in its 26th season, over 103,000 "Auto Zeitung" readers took part in this year's vote.  Favourites were selected in a total of 15 vehicle categories, with a total of 400 models to choose from. The excellent showing of current BMW models was likewise reflected in numerous top-3 rankings - these included the BMW 5 Series, the BMW X1 and the BMW 1 Series Convertible. The success of the BMW i8 in the "Sports car" category was especially impressive. The plug-in hybrid sports car does not go on sale until spring 2014, but the public at large are clearly already fascinated by the 2+2-seater's pioneering drive concept and its expressive, aerodynamically refined design. The BMW i8 was up against 29 conventionally powered competitors in its rating category and secured second place.

Munich. Starting in the autumn of 2012, BMW will be sending out highly attractive signals in the areas of sportiness, versatility and efficiency with new engine variants and equipment features for the latest models within the compact and midrange segments. For the very first time, the intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive will be available for the BMW 1 Series. Furthermore, the remarkably economical BMW 114d will be making its debut. The BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition Sedan will be available as the first petrol-driven model with additionally enhanced technology for reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. In future, there will be a choice of four diesel and two petrol engines for the new BMW 3 Series Touring. Latest additions to the vehicle range are the models BMW 320i Touring, BMW 318d Touring and the BMW 316d Touring.

At market launch of the new BMW 3 Series Touring, the new generation of the navigation system Professional will be offered as an option. The comprehensively developed system, which now comprises among other things three-dimensional graphic representation for all menu displays, further optimised operational comfort and speech recognition designed for use with all Office functions is also being simultaneously introduced for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan in the autumn of 2012. Also new for the BMW 3 Series: The Active Protection option now also includes the Attentiveness Assistant.

Furthermore, the number of BMW Models that conform with EU6 exhaust emission requirements will increase. As early as in the autumn of 2012, further model variants of the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 3 Series as well as the BMW X1 will comply with this classification due to come into effect as from 2014.

BMW 120d xDrive and BMW M135i xDrive: Intelligent four-wheel drive featured for the first time also in the BMW 1 Series.

Intelligent four-wheel drive BMW xDrive guarantees optimised stability, maximum traction and a noticeable increase in sportiness. Electronically controlled power distribution between the front and rear wheels also ensures supreme handling characteristics even in adverse weather and road conditions as well as the highest level of precision and agility when taking bends at high speeds.  This system is available for the first time for the BMW 1 Series.

−   xDrive is being offered both for the five-door and the three-door BMW 1 Series, each in two model variants. Featured in the BMW 120d xDrive, it distributes the power of a 135 kW/184 hp four-cylinder diesel engine between the front and rear wheels. This interaction facilitates acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h. Average fuel consumption of the BMW 120d xDrive is between 4.7 and 4.8 litres per 100 km and the CO2 emission level between 123 and 126 grams per km (figures as per the EU test cycle, depending on selected tyre format).

The four-wheel drive system forms an integral part of an exceptionally fascinating combination in the compact segment’s first BMW M Performance automobile. The interaction between xDrive and the 235 kW/320 hp straight six-cylinder petrol engine featured in the BMW M135i xDrive ensures an exceptionally high level of dynamics, traction and stability. The BMW M135i xDrive, which comes as standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission, sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in a mere 4.7 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. The BMW M135i xDrive combines outstanding sportiness and handling supremacy with an average fuel consumption of 7.8 litres/100 km and a CO2 emission level of 182 grams per km in the EU test cycle.

New entry model: The BMW 114d.

−   The range of diesel engines available for the BMW 1 Series is also being further extended as from the autumn of 2012. The new BMW 114d assumes the position of a remarkably economical entry version. The new model is powered by a 1.6-litre version of the four-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. The engine features a supercharging system with variable turbine technology and Common Rail direct fuel injection with solenoid valves operating with a maximum pressure of 1,600 bar. It delivers its maximum power output of 70 kW/95 hp at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 235 Nm between 1,500 and 2,750 rpm. This facilitates acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.2 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h. Average fuel consumption is between 4.1 and 4.3 litres/100 km, with respective CO2 emissions being between 109 and 112 grams per km (levels as per the EU test cycle, depending on selected tyre format).

Like all other model variants of the new BMW 1 Series, the new BMW 114d is also equipped as standard with comprehensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology. The package comprises among other things brake energy regeneration, shift point indicator, Auto Start Stop function, electronic power steering, on-demand ancillary components and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.  Moreover, the new BMW 114d features the ECO PRO mode, which can be activated by means of the Driver Experience Control switch fitted as standard, facilitating both a relaxed and economical driving style.

Extended model range for the new three-door BMW 1 Series:
BMW 120d and BMW 118i.

Like the two four-wheel drive models, the BMW 114d is being simultaneously introduced both as a five-door and a three-door version. The new three-door BMW 1 Series is being launched parallel to the BMW 120d and the BMW 118i, which both feature rear-wheel drive. Therefore, there is now a choice of five petrol and six diesel power units for the two compact models.

Consistent reduction in fuel consumption: The BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition Sedan.

The additional model variants of the BMW 3 Series Sedan available as from the autumn of 2012 will also offer exceptionally favourable fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. The BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition Sedan in particular will set benchmarks in this field. Similar to the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition Sedan, this model is resolutely oriented towards a highly consistent reduction in fuel consumption. The BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition Sedan is powered by a 1.6-litre, 125 kW/170 hp four-cylinder combustion engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. The engine delivers a maximum torque of 250 Nm and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds. The BMW EfficientDynamics measures, which are also fitted as standard on the other variants, are complemented on this model by an optimisation of the engine management, gear ratios, aerodynamics and rolling resistance. This results in an average fuel consumption of 5.3 litres/100 km and a CO2 emission level of 124 grams per km in the EU test cycle. Consequently, in terms of efficiency the BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition Sedan places itself in the forefront of BMW’s range of petrol-driven models.

Spirited midrange entry model: The BMW 316i Sedan.

The new entry model in the series offers a further particularly economical way of experiencing the new BMW 3 Series Sedan’s fascinating charisma and promise of driving pleasure. The new BMW 316i Sedan is also powered by a 1.6-litre, four cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, mobilising a maximum power output of 100 kW/136 hp and a maximum torque of 220 Nm. Power transfer is effected by a six-speed manual transmission featured as standard, an eight-speed automatic transmission being offered as an option. The BMW 316i Sedan takes just 8.9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (automatic: 9.2 seconds), top speed of both variants being 210 km/h. This model also combines a sporting temperament with exemplary efficiency. In the EU test an average fuel consumption of 5.8 to 5.9 litres/100 km and a CO2 emission level of 134 grams to 137 grams per km were ascertained for either of the transmission variants (identical figures both for manual and automatic transmission, depending on selected tyre format). 

BMW 3 Series Touring: Greater engine diversity, better fuel economy.

Immediately following the European market launch, the engine portfolio of the new BMW 3 Series Touring is also being extended. The BMW 328i Touring with 180 kW/245 hp, which was already available from the start, is now being complemented by a second petrol-driven variant - the 135 kW/184 hp BMW 320i Touring, which also fulfils the EU6 emission standard. The range of diesel models, which previously comprised the BMW 330d Touring with 190 kW/258 hp and the BMW 320d Touring with 135 kW/184 hp, is being supplemented by the BMW 318d Touring and the BMW 316d Touring. The new models are all fitted with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, with the option of an eight-speed automatic transmission for each model. 

The 2-litre engine featured in the new petrol-driven model is also equipped with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, maximum torque being 270 Nm. The new BMW 320i Touring accelerates from 0 to 100 km in 7.5 seconds and has a top speed of 233 km/h (automatic: 228 km/h). With average fuel consumption between 6.1 and 6.2 litres/100 km and CO2 emission between 143 and 145 grams per km, levels are even lower in conjunction with the automatic transmission than those of the model with a manual transmission, which are between 6.4 litres and 6.5 litres/100 km and between 149 and 152 grams per km (figures as per the EU test cycle, depending on selected tyre format).

Powerful and efficient: Two further diesel models for the new BMW 3 Series Touring.

The portfolio of diesel models, which has so far consisted of the BMW 330d Touring with 190 kW/258 hp and the BMW 320d Touring with 135 kW/184 hp, will be complemented by the BMW 318d Touring and the BMW 316d Touring. The new models feature as standard a six-speed manual transmission. They can optionally be fitted with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Adapted to suit each version of the BMW 318d Touring and the BMW 316d Touring, a 2-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology ensures a precise and economical fuel supply resulting in spontaneously delivered tractive power. The engine under the bonnet of the new BMW 318d Touring delivers 105 kW/143 hp and a maximum torque of 320 Nm, the BMW 316d Touring mobilising 85 kW/116 hp and 260 Newton metres of torque.

In both transmission versions, the new BMW 318d Touring has identical acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and a top speed of  210 km/h. Fuel consumption and emission levels are also the same, these being  between 4.5 and 4.7 litres/100 km and 119 and 123 grams per km respectively (figures as per the EU test cycle, depending on selected tyre format).

The new BMW 316d Touring accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 11.2 seconds (automatic: 11.1 seconds) and has a top speed of 200 km/h (198 km/h). Average fuel consumption as per the EU test cycle is 4.5 to 4.7 litres/100 km, the CO2 level being between 119 and 123 grams per km for each version (figures depend on selected tyre format).

Brilliantly displayed graphics, innovative functions, optimised operational comfort: New generation of the navigation system Professional for the BMW 3 Series.

The optionally available navigation system Professional is one of the most attractive ways to enhance the experience of driving the new BMW 3 Series. The new generation of the system is, thanks to an exceptionally powerful processor, even faster, offering additional functions for route representation and fascinating at first sight with three-dimensional graphics in brilliant resolution for all menu displays. The new navigation system Professional has been presented for the first time in the new BMW 7 Series and has meanwhile become available for the BMW 5 Series. It is available at market launch for the new BMW 3 Series Touring and will be on offer for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan as from the autumn of 2012.

The directly selectable function bar for fast changing of map displays as well as for spontaneous access to weather information and Real Time Traffic Information is one of the features designed to ensure further optimised operational comfort. Furthermore, split-screen representation now also offers the possibility to display High Guiding information with detailed representation of road junctions, including an accurate direction guidance by means of the Lane Guiding feature. In addition, the display of 3D city models ensuring maximum orientation in city traffic by means of perspective and realistic imaging of streets and buildings has also been upgraded.

Furthermore, a new speech recognition function has been added to the Mobile Office Services by BMW ConnectedDrive accessible using the new generation of the navigation system Professional. Previously, it was possible to display calendar entries, text messages (SMS, e-mail) tasks and memos on the on-board monitor and have them read out via speech output (Text to Speech). Consequently, the driver was able to get messages and information synchronised inside the car without being significantly distracted from the job of driving. The current innovation consists of a dictation function that simply writes down the spoken word by means of speech recognition. A text that has been created in this way can then be sent via SMS or e-mail.

Likewise, voice memos of up to two minutes in length can be recorded and sent per e-mail as a written text or saved to hard disk. Moreover, the new and more efficient speech recognition function renders the operation of virtually all functions offered by the BMW navigation system Professional even easier more comfortable, faster and above all safer.

Further BMW models with optimised emission behaviour in compliance with EU6.

Moreover, the number of models that already conform with the EU6 emission requirements coming into effect in 2014 will continue to increase further in the autumn. For example, the BMW 125i, both in the 3-door and 5-door versions, will in future also comply with this stringent classification. In the BMW 3 Series two additional engines offer the required optimised emission behaviour. The Sedan and Touring versions of the BMW 328i and the BMW 320i are both ready for the EU6 exhaust emission standard. From the autumn of 2012, the same will apply to all petrol versions of the BMW X1.

Four award-winners spanning a displacement range of 1.6 to 4.0 litres – BMW Group again emerges as the most successful auto manufacturer in the internationally renowned engine contest.

Munich / Stuttgart. Unbeaten titleholders and triumphant newcomers have secured the BMW Group’s renewed pre-eminence at the 2012 International Engine of the Year Awards. Powerplants guaranteeing efficient power delivery in current BMW and MINI models topped no fewer than four out of eight displacement categories. The quartet of trophy-winners comprised two four-cylinder engines, a straight-six and an eight-cylinder. Scooping up best-in-class wins were the 1.6-litre turbo unit of the MINI John Cooper S, the four-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology that drives the new BMW 328i, among others, the straight-six with M TwinPower Turbo of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, and the V8 under the bonnet of the BMW M3. This year’s winners were selected by an international panel of judges made up of 76 motoring journalists from 36 countries. The Engine of the Year Awards were presented against the backdrop of the Engine Expo trade fair in Stuttgart.

With these latest accolades, the BMW Group continues its winning streak in the world’s foremost engine competition. Thanks to the Group’s outstanding development expertise in this area, it has managed to notch up more than 50 class and overall wins at the International Engine of the Year Awards since 1999. In 2012, yet again, engines of widely differing design created for BMW and MINI models dominated a large number of displacement categories. Moreover, the latest title-winners span an unusually broad output spectrum ranging from 135 kW/184 hp to 309 kW/420 hp.

The 2012 competition saw the prize in the 1.4-litre to 1.8-litre displacement class handed to the engine that drives the MINI Cooper S, in a reprise of its success last year. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder develops peak output of 135 kW/184 hp with the help of a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct petrol injection and variable valve control based on the BMW-patented VALVETRONIC technology. Among the key attributes of this unit are not only its eager power delivery but also exemplary efficiency for its class.

Likewise providing enhanced driving pleasure coupled with extremely low fuel consumption and emission figures is the new 2.0-litre engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The 180 kW/245 hp four-cylinder turbocharged unit with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC instantly won over the judges to capture the trophy in the 1.8-litre to 2.0-litre category. This engine is currently powering the new BMW 328i Sedan, BMW 528i and BMW Z4 sDrive28i, as well as the BMW X3 xDrive28i and BMW X1 xDrive28i models.

The top accolade in the 2.5-litre to 3.0-litre class went to a six-cylinder in-line engine whose technology has already wowed the judges several times previously. Both in 2007 and in 2008, this 3.0-litre powerplant with twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection and Double-VANOS took the overall prize in the Engine of the Year Awards. It serves as the basis for both the M TwinPower Turbo unit inside the BMW 1 Series M Coupe and the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is. Delivering 250 kW/340 hp, this thrillingly high-revving straight-six has reached its highest output level. The upshot is truly outstanding performance that has garnered it a further Engine of the Year Award.

An achievement of this calibre is only exceeded by the string of successes claimed by the fourth BMW Group award-winner in 2012. For the fifth time in a row, the V8 engine of the BMW M3 high-performance sports car provides the measure of all things in the 3.0-litre to 4.0-litre displacement class. Bolstering the undiminished appeal of the 4.0-litre naturally aspirated engine are its hallmark M high-revving concept, peak output of 309 kW/420 hp and outstanding thrust. Beyond this, the eight-cylinder is compelling for its remarkable efficiency thanks to the Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration and other Efficient Dynamics technologies.

Munich. The BMW X3 continues to set the standard in the "mid-size
segment for off-road vehicles and SUVs". Europe's most widely sold
all-wheel drive car magazine "Auto Bild Alles Allrad" invited
readers to chose their favourite vehicles out of nine categories. With
a 24.6 % share of the votes, the BMW X3 seized victory well ahead of
the17 rival competing in its class, thereby repeating its success
achieved last year. Only a few weeks ago the compact BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle was voted "Off-road Vehicle of the Year" by
readers of the car magazine "Offroad".
A second place for the BMW 3 Series in the category "mid-size
all-terrain vehicles" and a third place for the new BMW X5 in the
category "high-end class off-road vehicles and SUVs"
underlined the outstanding overall result achieved by BMW. The award
will be presented to BMW during the motor show Auto Mobil International
(AMI) 2007 in Leipzig.
The all-terrain vehicle of the year award for the BMW X3 also reflects
the model's present success in terms of sales. 113,997 vehicles of this
model were sold worldwide during 2006 - an increase of around 3%
compared to last year. In Germany alone there were more than 23,000
newly registered BMW X3s, meaning that the vehicle managed to acquire a
market share of 10.3 percent in the off-road segment.