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. 

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 (Fuel consumption combined: 7.3 – 6.5 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 165 – 147 g/km in WLTP cycle; CO₂ classes: F – E). 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 (Consumption weighted, combined: 23.4 – 20.7 kWh/ 100 km and 1.1 – 0.8 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions weighted, combined: 25 – 19 g/km (WLTP); petrol consumption with discharged battery, combined: 7.9 – 7.1 l/100 km (WLTP); CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G – F; weighted, combined B) and BMW 330e Touring (Consumption weighted, combined: 23.0 – 21.3 kWh/100 km and
1.1 – 0.9 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions weighted, combined: 24 – 20 g/km (WLTP); petrol consumption with discharged battery, combined: 7.8 – 7.2 l/100 km (WLTP); CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G – F; weighted, combined B) 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 (Consumption weighted, combined: 24.6 – 22.0 kWh/100 km and 1.2 – 0.9 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions weighted, combined: 27 – 21 g/km (WLTP); petrol consumption with discharged battery, combined: 8.4 – 7.4 l/100 km (WLTP); CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G – F; weighted, combined B), 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 (Consumption weighted, combined: 24.4 – 22.9 kWh/100 km and 1.2 – 1.0 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions weighted, combined: 26 – 23 g/km (WLTP); petrol consumption with discharged battery, combined: 8.3 – 7.8 l/100 km (WLTP); CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G; weighted, combined B) 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 (Fuel consumption combined: 8.5 – 7.8 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 192 – 177 g/km in WLTP cycle; CO₂ class(es): G) and BMW M340i xDrive Touring (Fuel consumption combined: 8.8 – 8.1 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 198 – 182 g/km in WLTP cycle;
CO₂ class(es): G) generates maximum output of 275 kW/374 hp and peak torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). The BMW M340d xDrive Sedan
(Fuel consumption combined: 6.6 – 6.0 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 173 – 158 g/km in WLTP cycle; CO₂ class(es): F) and BMW M340d xDrive Touring (Fuel consumption combined: 6.8 – 6.1 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 177 – 161 g/km in WLTP cycle;
CO₂ class(es): G – F), 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.}

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Munich. New model variants and innovations in the areas of electrification and digitalisation are set to further increase the appeal and diversity of the BMW product range from summer 2023. At the pinnacle of the model portfolio, the arrival of a third variant of the all-electric BMW i7 expands the brand’s offering in the luxury segment. At the same time, the Multi-Contract Plug & Charge and MAX RANGE functions will now be available for all BMW i7 and BMW iX model variants, making electric mobility even more convenient. And from August 2023, customers will have the choice of a second, extremely powerful six-cylinder in-line diesel engine for the new BMW X5 and BMW X6.

The highlight as far as digitalisation is concerned is the introduction of the upgraded BMW iDrive featuring QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 8.5 for a large number of current models. The capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will also be enhanced once again for these models in summer 2023. The new exterior colours and upholstery variants for several of the current models will offer additional scope for customisation. Meanwhile, the M Sport package Pro will be added to the choice of optional extras for the BMW X1 and BMW iX1.

BMW i7 eDrive50: an extra boost for electric mobility in the luxury segment.

It has taken just a few months for the all-electric BMW i7 to establish itself as the epitome of progressive drive technology in the luxury segment worldwide. From July 2023, the new BMW i7 eDrive50 (electric power consumption combined: 20.3 – 19.1 kWh/100 km in the WLTP cycle) will offer customers another way to enjoy supreme long-distance comfort combined with trailblazing innovations and emission-free driving pleasure. The third model variant in the BMW i7 line-up comes with the latest BMW eDrive technology in the form of a highly integrated electric drive unit delivering maximum output of 335 kW/455 hp and peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft).

This enables the new BMW i7 eDrive50 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 205 km/h (127 mph). Thanks to its highly efficient electric motor and the outstanding energy density of its high-voltage battery, the new BMW i7 eDrive50 achieves a WLTP-calculated range of 575 – 611 kilometres (357 – 380 miles).

Multi-Contract Plug & Charge and MAX RANGE: new functions for making electric mobility even more convenient.

To coincide with the ongoing expansion of the all-electric model line-up, new functions are being made available for all BMW i7 and BMW iX variants in summer 2023 that will make enjoying locally emission-free driving pleasure even easier and more convenient. The Multi-Contract Plug & Charge function will be added to the BMW Charging portfolio, enabling automatic vehicle authentication at public charging points. The exchange of data between vehicle and charging point does away with the need for a charging card or app. As the amount of electricity fed into the high-voltage battery is also billed automatically, Plug & Charge makes recharging even more straightforward than refuelling conventionally powered vehicles. The BMW Group is the first carmaker in the world to incorporate multi-contract functionality into this new feature. Customers are able to store their individual vehicle electricity contracts from multiple suppliers in digital form in their car, allowing them to use the charging points of these operators with the greatest of ease. The new Multi-Contract Plug & Charge function can be made available via Remote Software Upgrade for all BMW i7 models manufactured since July 2022 and all BMW iX models built since March 2023.

The MAX RANGE function for the electric drive system in the BMW i7 and BMW iX is also new and gives drivers greater flexibility when looking for a public charging station. It is operational in the My Mode Efficient and can be used to increase range by up to 25 per cent by both limiting drive power and top speed and scaling back comfort functions. The MAX RANGE function was mainly devised for situations where drivers are unable to recharge mid-journey as originally planned because, for example, the charging station they were heading for is out of service. Activating the MAX RANGE function extends the range by a comfortable margin for the journey to an alternative charging point for the high-voltage battery. This is achieved by, among other things, limiting the vehicle’s top speed to 90 km/h (56 mph) at the same time as disabling features such as the climate control, seat heating and steering wheel heating. The new MAX RANGE function can be made available via Remote Software Upgrade for all BMW i7 models manufactured since July 2022 and all BMW iX models built since March 2023.

The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX can now also be charged more efficiently thanks to the same upgraded charging software already used in the BMW i7. Here, careful control of the charging rate results in shorter charging times. The new charging software can also be imported into all BMW iX models manufactured since March 2023 via Remote Software Upgrade.

In addition to this, the various digital services offered for charging the high-voltage battery will be enhanced for all electrified BMW models in summer 2023. When searching for charging points in the navigation system, for instance, the entries for several stations within a single charging park will now be combined. In the future, the charging history will also show the total costs for a month and allow charging operations to be filtered by location.

The BMW Maps navigation system will also offer improved functions for calculating a charging-optimised route in the all-electric BMW i7, BMW iX, BMW i4 and BMW iX1 models. The driver’s preferred minimum charge level for when the vehicle reaches mid-journey stops and the final destination can now be adjusted in increments of five per cent and incorporated into the route planning. In the future, the system will also be able to give preference to charging stations operated by selected providers and exclude others from the route planning at the customer’s request. In addition, the user is given even more detailed information on their selected charging stations, including availability at that moment in time, the connector types supported and payment options, plus the presence of sanitary facilities, food outlets or playgrounds in their vicinity. The new charging-optimised route planning functions can also be retrofitted via Remote Software Upgrade.

Highly efficient and big on torque: the new six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with 48V mild hybrid technology for the BMW X5 and BMW X6.

A second six-cylinder in-line diesel engine will be added to the line-up of drive systems for the BMW X5 and BMW X6 in August 2023. The unit in the new BMW X5 xDrive40d (fuel consumption, combined: 8.4 – 7.3 litres/100 km [33.6 – 38.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 221 – 190 g/km in the WLTP cycle) and new BMW X6 xDrive40d (fuel consumption, combined: 8.2 – 7.3 litres/100 km [34.5 – 38.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 214 – 191 g/km in the WLTP cycle) is the most powerful diesel variant in the new modular generation of Efficient Dynamics engines.

New steel pistons enable a higher combustion pressure, and the effectiveness of the oil separation process has also been enhanced. The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a two-stage turbocharging system and a common-rail direct injection system with new solenoid valve injectors. These send the fuel into the combustion chambers with up to 12 injections per power stroke and maximum pressure of 2,500 bar. 48V mild hybrid technology in the form of a crankshaft-driven starter generator integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission gives the 3.0-litre engine even sharper power delivery and increases its efficiency.

The drive system generates maximum output of 259 kW/352 hp and peak torque of 720 Nm (531 lb-ft). The impressive pulling power of the new six-cylinder in-line diesel engine, the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and the intelligent all-wheel-drive system join forces to produce potent sprinting ability. The new BMW X5 xDrive40d and new BMW X6 xDrive40d both accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds.

BMW iDrive with QuickSelect for further BMW models.

The upgraded BMW iDrive with QuickSelect is being rolled out with BMW Operating System 8.5 across additional models*. The latest generation of BMW iDrive brings a newly designed home screen and QuickSelect functionality to make selecting and operating numerous functions and digital services even more intuitive and comfortable. This also brings an improved menu structure that takes its cues from consumer electronics devices plus a range of new digital services and apps.

By showing the right information in the right place, the new BMW iDrive helps to deliver a focused, assured driving experience. BMW iDrive with QuickSelect also teams up with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, and so focuses squarely on operation using the touchscreen and natural language.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with additional skills.

In all BMW models that are equipped with BMW Operating System 8.5 or can be upgraded with the system*, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will gain additional skills from summer 2023. Depending on the vehicle specification and the driving situation, the digital companion will be able to suggest deactivating the speed limiting function, switching to Sport mode or activating the Assisted Driving Modes. Naturally formulated spoken instructions can also be used to adjust the seat position. In fully electric models with the relevant specification, the MAX RANGE function can be activated and the BMW IconicSounds Electric controlled with just a single spoken command.

Added to which, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will now be able to proactively explain previously unused functions to the driver, including storing favourite radio stations and using spoken commands to adjust the air conditioning or the brightness of the BMW Curved Display. The graphic depicting the digital companion during exchanges with the car’s occupants now gains ten additional transformation symbols.

M Sport package Pro now also available for the new BMW X1 and new BMW iX1.

From July 2023, the range of optional equipment available for the new BMW X1 and new BMW iX1 will now include a model-specific M Sport package Pro. This option will be offered as an extension of the M Sport package and helps to shine an even brighter spotlight on the dynamic character of the compact Sports Activity Vehicle.

This new option includes extended M High-gloss Shadowline trim, the M rear spoiler, the M Sport braking system with red or – if desired – dark blue callipers, plus M seat belts. Specifying the optional Adaptive LED Headlights also brings M lights Shadowline.

New for the BMW X1, BMW iX1 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer: seat surfaces in Veganza perforated.

New upholstery variants available from July 2023 will underscore the premium character inside the new BMW X1, new BMW iX1 and new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. Seat surfaces in Veganza perforated trim can be ordered as an option for these models.

This vegan surface material with leather-like properties can be specified in Black, Mocha or Oyster. The M Alcantara/Veganza combination in Black with blue contrast stitching is also available for cars with the M Sport package.

New exterior colours for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, BMW 2 Series Coupé and BMW M2.

The introduction of new exterior colours for current BMW models gives customers additional scope for individualising the exterior of their car. The BMW Individual paint finishes Frozen Pure Grey metallic and Frozen Portimao Blue metallic will be available for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, BMW 2 Series Coupé and high-performance BMW M2 (fuel consumption, combined: 9.8 – 9.6 litres/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 222 – 218 g/km in the WLTP cycle) from July 2023.

At a glance: The new BMW models for summer 2023*

*All new models due to enter production in July / August 2023. All figures relating to fuel/electric power consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional. All of the stated model variants, equipment features, technical data and fuel/electric power consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market.

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. 

Please find attached specifications of the BMW 3 Series Sedan, valid from 03/2021.

Munich. Pioneering energy efficiency, impressive economy and hallmark driving pleasure are combined in the new entry-level plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 3 Series and the BMW 5 Series. Both model series will be supplemented by two further models each with electrified drive from March 2021. The new model variants of the BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring as well as the BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW 5 Series Touring feature the fourth generation of BMW eDrive technology.

In this way the BMW Group is consistently continuing its model offensive in the field of vehicles with electrified drive systems. It is already quite clear that electromobility is increasingly becoming a key driver of sustainable growth for the company. For the financial year 2021, the BMW Group is aiming to increase sales of vehicles with electrified drive systems by around 50 per cent compared to the already very successful year 2020.

The new plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series offer ideal prerequisites for inspiring additional target groups for electric mobility. In the BMW 3 Series alone, there will already be four plug-in hybrid models to choose from in future, three of which will also be optionally available with BMW xDrive. The BMW 5 Series will then comprise as many as five models that combine characteristic sportiness, everyday and travelling suitability with the option of locally emission-free driving. Three of them feature intelligent all-wheel drive as standard or as an option.

In total, the BMW Group will be offering 15 BMW models and one MINI model with plug-in hybrid drive from March 2021. The current expansion of the range represents the next logical step on the way to a model range that will already include 25 electrified vehicles by 2023.

The new range includes the following model variants:         

BMW 320e Sedan: Fuel consumption weighted, combined: 1.8 - 1.3 l/100 km (WLTP), 1.8 - 1.5 l/100 km (NEDC); power consumption weighted, combined: 18.1 - 16.1 kWh/100 km (WLTP), 14.8 - 14.2 kWh/100 km (NEDC), CO2 emissions weighted, combined: 41 - 29 g/km (WLTP), 41 - 35 g/km (NEDC),

BMW 320e Touring: Fuel consumption weighted, combined: 1.9 - 1.4 l/100 km (WLTP), 1.9 - 1.7 l/100 km (NEDC); power consumption weighted, combined: 18.6 - 16.7 kWh/100 km (WLTP), 15.3 - 14.3 kWh/100 km (NEDC), CO2 emissions weighted, combined: 44 - 32 g/km (WLTP), 44 - 38 g/km (NEDC),

BMW 320e xDrive Touring: Fuel consumption weighted, combined: 2.2 - 1.5 l/100 km (WLTP), 2.1 - 1.9 l/100 km (NEDC); power consumption weighted, combined: 19.5 - 17.3 kWh/100 km (WLTP), 16.4 - 16.0 kWh/100 km (NEDC), CO2 emissions weighted, combined: 49 - 35 g/km (WLTP), 49 - 43 g/km (NEDC),

BMW 520e Sedan: Fuel consumption weighted, combined: 1.8 - 1.3 l/100 km (WLTP), 1.9 - 1.7 l/100 km (NEDC); power consumption weighted, combined: 18.2 - 16.3 kWh/100 km (WLTP), 15.1 - 14.5 kWh/100 km (NEDC), CO2 emissions weighted, combined: 41 - 30 g/km (WLTP), 43 - 39 g/km (NEDC),

BMW 520e Touring: Fuel consumption weighted, combined: 1.9 - 1.5 l/100 km (WLTP), 2.0 - 1.8 l/100 km (NEDC); power consumption weighted, combined: 18.4 - 17.0 kWh/100 km (WLTP), 15.6 - 15.0 kWh/100 km (NEDC), CO2 emissions weighted, combined: 43 - 34 g/km (WLTP), 46 - 42 g/km (NEDC).

Economic entry into the world of electrified driving pleasure.

The new additions to the range of plug-in hybrid models create the opportunity to combine the comprehensive qualities of the new BMW 3 Series and the new BMW 5 Series with the advanced character of an electrified drive in a particularly economical fashion. The model-specific plug-in hybrid system of the new entry-level variants consists of a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with 120 kW/163 hp and an electric motor. Together they generate a system output of up to 150 kW/204 hp.

The intelligently controlled interaction of the combustion engine and electric motor delivers brand-typical hybrid-specific driving pleasure as well as outstanding efficiency. The two engines transmit their drive torque to the rear wheels via the 8-speed Steptronic transmission or, to all four wheels as required with the help of the xDrive system. In addition to 150 kW/204 hp of system output, the spontaneous power delivery of the plug-in hybrid drive and the maximum system torque of 350 Nm ensure high-level sprint capacity and sporty driving characteristics.

The new BMW 320e Sedan accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 225 km/h. The corresponding figures for the new BMW 320e Touring are 7.9 seconds and 220 km/h, while for the new BMW 320e xDrive Touring they are 8.2 seconds and 219 km/h. The new BMW 520e Sedan accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, and its top speed is 225 km/h. The new BMW 520e Touring completes the standard sprint in 8.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 218 km/h. In purely electric driving mode, the new plug-in hybrid models of both series can reach a top speed of 140 km/h.

High electric ranges thanks to state-of-the-art battery cell technology.

Due to the exemplary efficiency of their electric motor and the high storage capacity of their high-voltage battery, the new plug-in hybrid models are ideal for handling a large part of everyday driving, such as commuting between home and work, with pure e-drive and thus locally emission-free. Developed on the basis of most recent battery cell technology and manufactured by the BMW Group, the lithium-ion batteries offer a gross energy content of 12.0 kWh and a capacity of 34 Ah.

The values for the electric range according to the WLTP test cycle are 52 to 61 kilometres for the new BMW 320e Sedan, 50 to 59 kilometres for the new BMW 320e Touring, 46 to 57 kilometres for the new BMW 320e xDrive Touring, 53 to 61 kilometres for the new BMW 520e Sedan and 52 to 57 kilometres for the new BMW 520e Touring.

On the road, the high-voltage battery is particularly efficient thanks to brake energy recovery. Comprehensive charging equipment will be received by the customer in the scope of delivery of the vehicle: for charging at home and on the go, the charging cables are already included as well as the BMW Charging Card, which can be easily activated. BMW customers enjoy special conditions here, which also exempt from the monthly basic fee in the first year. Other products and services, such as wall boxes including professional installation, can also be selected from BMW Charging's wide range of products as required. The high-voltage battery can be charged with a maximum of 3,7kW from 0 to 80 per cent of its total capacity in 2.6 hours and from zero to 100 per cent in 3.6 hours.

Due to their long ranges and low CO2 emissions, the new plug-in BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series hybrid models meet the criteria which have been stipulated for the classification as an electric vehicle in Germany and the associated special rights on public roads. As a result, they are also subject to a 50% reduced company car taxation. In addition, the new models also meet the requirements for Euro 6.750 combined incentives in Germany for the BMW 320e versions and Euro 5.625 for the BMW 520e versions.

Digital services support locally emission-free driving.

BMW Live Cockpit Plus including Connected Package Professional, which is standard equipment in the new plug-in hybrid models, enables drivers to use numerous digital services, some of which are specially designed for electric mobility. With the BMW eDrive Zone and BMW Points digital services, drivers of plug-in hybrid BMW models are given additional incentives and opportunities to make particularly intensive use of the potential of locally emission-free mobility and thus contribute reducing CO2 and noise emissions in inner-city areas.

As soon as the vehicle enters an inner-city core area recognised as an eDrive Zone by means of geo-fencing via GPS, the control system of the plug-in hybrid drive automatically activates the purely electric driving mode. In addition to the official urban environmental zones in Germany, the eDrive Zones also include city areas in numerous other European countries. In total, the BMW eDrive Zone service can already be used in more than 80 European cities.

The increase in the distance covered electrically not only helps optimise efficiency and reduce emissions, it also reduces operating costs for the customer. This applies particularly to city traffic, where electric power consistently achieves a higher level of efficiency than a petrol or diesel engine.

Locally emission-free driving is also rewarded with BMW Points, the world's first rewards programme for drivers of BMW plug-in hybrid models. For each purely electric kilometre travelled, the driver is credited with one point. Within areas defined as a BMW eDrive Zone, using purely electric driving mode is even rewarded with double points. The points collected can then be converted into credit that can be redeemed when charging the high-voltage battery at public BMW Charging Stations. The BMW eDrive Zones and BMW Points services are also standard for the new new BMW 3 Series and the new BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrid models.

Unrestricted everyday and travelling suitability, extensive level of standard equipment.

The high-voltage battery of all nwe BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrid models is installed below the rear seat bench to save space. This means that the luggage compartment volume of the Sedan and Touring models is almost fully available. It is 375 litres in the new BMW 320e Sedan and 410 litres in the new BMW 520e Sedan. In the new BMW 320e Touring, storage space can be increased from 410 to 1 420 litres and from 430 to 1 560 litres in the new BMW 520e Touring. The maximum permissible trailer load is 1 500 kilograms for the BMW 3 Series models and 1 700 kilograms for the BMW 5 Series models.

The generous amount of space contributes to the attractive versatility of the plug-in hybrid models, as does the drive concept with two engines. Thanks to a fuel tank that holds 40 litres in the BMW 3 Series models and 46 litres in the BMW 5 Series models, a high range is ensured, emphasising the electric vehicles’ travelling suitability.

The BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrid models are also equipped with active pedestrian protection as standard. When driving electrically at speeds of up to 30 km/h, an unmistakeable sound designed specifically for electrified BMW models is generated to alert other road users to the approaching car without impairing the acoustic comfort of the vehicle occupants.

The sporty characteristics of the new plug-in hybrid models are enhanced by model-specific tuning and targeted transmission of the drive sound via the audio system into the interior, a direct yet precise accelerator pedal characteristic and a specific 8-speed Steptronic transmission shift programme including brake downshifts.

Standard equipment also includes automatic air conditioning with extended features (BMW 520e Sedan, BMW 520e Touring) or automatic air conditioning (BMW 320e Sedan, BMW 320e Touring) and auxiliary heating and air conditioning. The interior of the vehicle can preheated or precooled as required. This ensures pleasant temperatures before starting off even if the battery has a low state of charge. The interior can be pre-conditioned remotely via the My BMW App using a smartphone.

Munich. The market launch of the BMW M5 CS is the absolute highlight among the innovations that will enrich the BMW model range in spring 2021. The first special model based on the BMW M5 Competition takes on the top position in the BMW M GmbH range in terms of engine power, performance and exclusivity, underlining the brand's close ties with racing. Model diversity in the premium segment of the compact and mid-size class will be expanded from March 2021 with additional drive variants for the BMW 4 Series Coupé and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé. What is more, attractive additions to the standard or optionally available equipment in numerous BMW model series enhance driving pleasure, comfort, individuality and safety.

A feature previously only available for high-performance BMW M GmbH automobiles will also be featured on the most powerful variants of the BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 4 Series Coupé from March 2021. For the first time, an M carbon fibre roof will be offered for the top models of both model series. Exclusive lightweight components also optimise the driving experience in the BMW M8. Newly developed M Carbon bucket seats will be available as an optional extra for the three high-performance models in the luxury segment from March 2021. The luxury sedans of the BMW 7 Series will be equipped with Integral Active Steering as standard. In addition, a nanoparticle filter will now be a new component of the standard or optional 4-zone automatic air conditioning in the BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series as well as in the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7 models. BMW Individual Shadow Line lights complement the equipment range for the BMW X5 and BMW X6. The BMW News app will be added to the range of digital services for selected BMW models from April 2021.

High-performance sedan with exclusive racing characteristics: The BMW M5 CS.
Following the BMW M3 CS, the BMW M4 CS and the BMW M2 CS, a special model of the BMW M5 will be launched for the first time in March 2021. The most powerful and exclusive version of the high-performance sedan bears the name BMW M5 CS (combined fuel consumption: 11.3 - 10.9 l/100 km (WLTP), 11.3 - 11. 1 l/100 km (NEDC); combined CO2 emissions: 257 - 248 g/km (WLTP), 258 - 253 g/km (NEDC).

The special model is powered by the most powerful engine ever to be used in a BMW M GmbH production vehicle. The V8 engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology generates a maximum output of 467 kW/635 hp and is thus 7 kW/10 hp more powerful than the drive unit in the BMW M5 Competition. Weighing in with 70 kilograms less weight, the BMW M5 CS completes the sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, beating the BMW M5 Competition by 0.3 seconds.

The racetrack potential of the BMW M5 CS also goes hand in hand with unrestricted suitability for everyday use. In addition to design elements for the exterior in Gold Bronze, standard equipment also features M Carbon seats for the driver and front passenger. In the rear of the BMW M5 CS, two passengers can be seated on individual seats and enjoy the outstanding driving experience.

New in the BMW 4 Series: Inline 6-cylinder diesel engines and exclusive optional extras.
The sporty character of the new BMW 4 Series Coupé will be underlined by an additional BMW M automobile and a further model variant with a particularly powerful engine from March 2021. In both cases, an inline 6-cylinder diesel engine and intelligent all-wheel drive provide efficient driving pleasure. The new BMW M440d xDrive Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 6.3 – 5.7 l/100 km (WLTP), 5.7 - 5.3 l/100 km (NEDC); combined CO2 emissions: 164 - 150 g/km (WLTP), 149 - 140 g/km (NEDC), with its 250 kW/340 hp drive featuring BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology is also combined with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, an M sports package and an M sports differential. Thanks to the outstanding performance of the 3.0-litre engine and its maximum torque of 700 Nm, the new BMW M440d xDrive Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds.

With a maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp generated from a 3.0 litres of capacity and a maximum torque of 650 Nm, the powerplant of the new BMW 430d xDrive Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 5.9 – 5.2 l/100 km (WLTP), 5.1 - 4.8 l/100 km (NEDC); combined CO2 emissions: 155 - 137 g/km (WLTP), 134 - 126 g/km (NEDC) also enables dynamic acceleration manoeuvres. It takes just 5.1 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h.

In both inline 6-cylinder diesel models, mild hybrid technology with a 48-volt starter generator provides a further increase in dynamics and efficiency. The system enables particularly intensive energy recovery in braking and thrust phases. The energy is stored in a 48-volt battery and used both for the onboard network and to generate additional drive power. The dynamic power delivery when starting off and accelerating is enhanced by the additional power of 8 kW/11 hp spontaneously provided by the 48-volt starter generator. In other load ranges the electric drive can relieve the combustion engine and thus increase its efficiency.

For both the new BMW 4 Series Coupé and the new BMW 4 Series Convertible, the BMW Individual Brilliant White metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Portimao Blue metallic and BMW Individual Frozen Deep Grey metallic exterior paint finishes will also be available from March 2021. The extended BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery or the BMW Individual Merino full leather upholstery will be available in six or four colour variants respectively to ensure exclusive flair in the interior.

Dynamic charisma increased, centre of gravity lowered: M Carbon roof in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series.
The new BMW M440d xDrive Coupé, just like the BMW M440i xDrive Coupé and the two corresponding top models of the BMW 3 Series Sedan, will add further touches of sporty flair by means of an exclusive lightweight construction feature. The M Carbon roof, available for these four models from March 2021, emphasises dynamic charisma and at the same time lowers the vehicle's centre of gravity further to make it even more agile.

In future, the new interior trims will be available in the M Carbon Fibre version to match. They will also be available for the BMW M440i xDrive Convertible and for all other model variants of the new BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series, in each case in conjunction with the M Sport Model equipment.

Additional all-wheel drive model variant for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé.
The added traction, driving stability and sportiness associated with intelligent all-wheel drive can be experienced in a further model variant of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé from March 2021. The new BMW 220i xDrive Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 7.3 - 6.5 l/100 km (WLTP), 6.4 - 6.1 l/100 km (NEDC); combined CO2 emissions: 165 - 149 g/km (WLTP, 147 - 139 g/km (NEDC), generates 131 kW/178 hp from a 4-cylinder petrol engine, the power being distributed between the front and rear wheels as required. The 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is in charge of power transmission. With this drive technology, the new BMW 220i xDrive Gran Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds.

The range of optional extras for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé will be supplemented by additional light-alloy wheels in spring 2021. 18-inch M light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design and bicolour finish are new to the range.

BMW 7 Series now features Integral Active Steering as standard.
The superior ride comfort, cornering dynamics and agility of the BMW 7 Series luxury sedans will be enhanced from March 2021 with the help of Integral Active Steering as standard. This system optimises both agility and superior handling at higher speeds as well as comfort when manoeuvring through precisely controlled steering of the rear wheels. The latest version of the Integral Active Steering system triggers counter-steering of the rear wheels even at a particularly low speed of less than 3 km/h. This further enhances the manoeuvrability of the luxury sedans when parking and backing out, as well as when passing slowly through narrow spaces.

Nanoparticle filter as a new component of the 4-zone automatic air conditioning.
In many current BMW models, a nanoparticle filter will be part of the range of functions of the 4-zone automatic air conditioning. The system, which is unique in the competitive environment, is able to remove tiny impurities from the air flowing into the interior. The 4-zone automatic air conditioning with nanoparticle filter is part of the standard equipment in the BMW X7 and is offered as an option for the BMW 7 Series luxury sedans, the BMW 8 Series luxury sports cars and the BMW X5 and BMW X6 models.

BMW Individual Shadow Line lights for the BMW X5 and BMW X6.
The range of optional equipment for the BMW X5 and BMW X6 models is supplemented by the BMW Individual Shadow Line lights. They are available in conjunction with the optional BMW laser light and feature black inlays on the upper edge of the headlights ensuring a particularly expressive front view.

Pure race-track feeling: M Carbon bucket seats in the BMW M8.
A particularly attractive addition to the range of optional extras for the BMW M8 models allows customers to experience the fascinating performance characteristics of the high-performance sports cars even more intensively. M Carbon bucket seats will be available for the BMW M8 Competition Coupé, the BMW M8 Competition Convertible and the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé from March 2021. With their novel, structure-based design, visible carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) surfaces, integrated headrests, openings in the backrests and side sections as well as guides for multi-point seat belts, they combine racing functionality with long-distance comfort and luxurious quality of workmanship.

The M Carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger are electrically adjustable for height, tilt and forward/back positioning. In addition, the inclination and width of their backrests can be adjusted at the touch of a button. They feature leather and alcantara seat surfaces and are also heated. Illuminated "M8" lettering on the headrests and a memory function on the driver's side are also part of the equipment package of the M Carbon bucket seats. Their lightweight construction concept leads to a significant weight reduction compared to the standard M sports seats.

Exclusive special equipment for other BMW M automobiles.
The range of optional extras available for numerous other BMW M automobiles will also be expanded in spring 2021. For the BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé, the new Skyscraper Grey metallic exterior paint finish and the extended BMW Merino leather upholstery are available in a choice of five additional colour variants.

The BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition models can also be equipped with BMW Individual Shadow Line lights in conjunction with the optional BMW laser light from April 2021. In addition, the optional 4-zone automatic air conditioning will also include a nanoparticle filter in the BMW M8 models.

New addition to the range of digital services: BMW News app.
The BMW Operating System 7, which is available in conjunction with BMW Live Cockpit, BMW Live Cockpit Plus or BMW Live Cockpit Professional in numerous current BMW models, enables the use of a growing number of digital services. The latest innovations in this area include the BMW News app, which will be available from April 2021 as part of BMW Connected and provides the driver with selected audio content. This is precisely tailored to the wishes and needs of the driver. Based on the driver’s individual interests, current online news is selected from publisher offerings and broadcast in the form of naturally spoken language via the vehicle's audio system.

* all new models available from start of production in March 2021

Please find attached specifications of the BMW 3 Series Sedan 330d and the BMW 3 Series Sedan 330d xDrive, valid from 11/2020.

Munich. Increased efficiency through consistent electrification, optimised emissions and innovations in the areas of driver assistance and digital services are the focus of the model revision measures for numerous BMW model series that will take effect in autumn 2020. From November 2020, all models of the premium brand will meet the requirements of the currently strictest exhaust emission standard Euro 6d. In the BMW 5 Series, the range of plug-in hybrid models has been extended by three new variants. New inline 6-cylinder diesel engines and 48-volt mild hybrid technology lower fuel consumption and emissions of selected models in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 8 Series. In addition, further engines will supplement the drive portfolio of the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé.

Active speed control with Stop&Go provides an added comfort and safety thanks to the new additional feature of traffic light recognition, which will be part of the Driving Assistant Professional option in numerous current models from November 2020.

The latest digital services for models equipped with BMW Operating System 7 increase driving pleasure even further. BMW News provides the driver with personalised audio news. New options when creating the driver profile make it easier to personalise the vehicle. The range of functions of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will also be expanded further. New body finishes and optional extras will be available for numerous models from November 2020.

Efficiency becomes more diverse: World premiere for five plug-in hybrid models in the BMW 5 Series.

The range of BMW models with electrified drive systems will also be consistently expanded in autumn 2020. The expanded range of the following electrified models is especially attractive: BMW 545e xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 2.3 – 2.2 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.3 – 15.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 53 – 49 g/km; electric range: 47 – 57 km), BMW 530e Touring (combined fuel consumption: 2.0 – 1.8 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.1 – 15.4 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 46 – 42 g/km; electric range: 52 – 57 km (WLTP)) and BMW 530e xDrive Touring (combined fuel consumption: 2.4 – 2.2 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.7 – 16.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 54 – 50 g/km; electric range: 48 – 53 km (WLTP)). The BMW 5 Series model range now already includes five plug-in hybrid variants. In the upper mid-size class, BMW offers the largest selection of models with electrified drive.

In the new BMW 545e xDrive Sedan, an inline 6-cylinder petrol engine and an electric drive integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission deliver impressive driving dynamics in a particularly efficient manner. The power of the two drive units adds up to a maximum system output of 290 kW/394 hp and is distributed between the front and rear wheels as required by the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive. The brand’s hallmark combination of energy efficiency and sportiness also characterises the new Touring models, whose plug-in hybrid system consists of a 4-cylinder petrol engine and an electric drive system also integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. Together they generate a system output of up to 215 kW/292 hp in the XtraBoost mode when load requirements are particularly high.

Increased dynamic performance and reduced fuel consumption: New inline 6-cylinder diesel engines with 48-volt mild hybrid technology in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 8 Series.

With the introduction of 48-volt mild hybrid technology in additional models, BMW continues to consistently reduce fuel consumption and emissions in its current vehicle fleet. This is linked to the introduction of a new generation of inline 6-cylinder diesel engines. As of autumn 2020, four mid-size models of the BMW 3 Series and three luxury sports cars of the BMW 8 Series will offer noticeably more dynamic performance and increased efficiency.

This twofold and BMW typical progress is achieved through further advanced BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and additionally with the aid of a particularly powerful starter generator and an additional battery. The dynamic power delivery when starting off and accelerating is enhanced by the additional power of 8 kW/11 hp spontaneously provided by the 48-volt starter generator. In other load ranges the electric drive can relieve the combustion engine and thus increase its efficiency. The power required for this is generated by intensive recuperation in braking and thrust phases and stored in a 48-volt battery, which also supplies the vehicle’s electrical system.

The 48-volt mild hybrid technology will be used in four further BMW 3 Series models from November 2020. In the new BMW 330d Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 4.7 – 4.4 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 125 – 116 g/km*) and the new BMW 330d Xdrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 5.0 – 4.7 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 132 – 123 g/km*) and the new BMW 330d Touring (combined fuel consumption: 4.8 – 4.5 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 128 – 119 g/km*) and the new BMW 330d Xdrive Touring (combined fuel consumption: 5.2 – 4.8 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 136 – 127 g/km), it supports the new inline 6-cylinder diesel engine, which already provides additional driving pleasure with its maximum output increased by 15 kW/21 hp to 210 kW/286 hp. Thanks to a two-stage turbocharging system and an advanced common rail injection system whose piezo injectors now inject the fuel with up to ten injections per working cycle and a maximum pressure of 2 700 bar into the combustion chambers, engine response and efficiency of the 3.0 litre engine are optimised. The new diesel engine generates its maximum torque, which has been increased by 30 to 650 Nm, between 1 500 and 2 500 rpm. The increased power of the combustion engine and the additional electrical power noticeably improve the car’s sprint capacity. For example, the new BMW 330d Sedan improves its acceleration from zero to 100 km/h by 0.2 seconds to now 5.3 seconds.

In the BMW 8 Series, 48-volt mild hybrid technology is combined with an equally new and even more powerful 3.0-litre diesel engine. The BMW 840d xDrive Coupé models (fuel consumption combined: 5.8 – 5.6 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 154 - 146 g/km), BMW 840d xDrive Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 6.0 – 5.7 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 159 – 151 g/km) and BMW 840d xDrive Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 5.9 – 5.6 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 155 - 148 g/km) will be powered by a 250 kW/340 hp inline 6-cylinder engine in the future. The 15 kW/20 hp increase in top-level output also results from further advanced BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. It now includes a multi-stage turbocharger with variable turbine geometry for the high-pressure and low-pressure stages. The maximum torque of 700 Nm is generated alreadybetween 1 750 and 2 250 rpm. In the luxury sports car model range, the new drive technology enables the BMW 840d xDrive Coupé, for example, to improve its acceleration figure from a standing start to 100 km/h by 0.1 seconds to 4.8 seconds. The optimised performance characteristics of the diesel engine are accompanied by precisely adapted fine tuning of the chassis and its control systems.

The new diesel engines for the BMW 3 Series and the BMW 8 Series also represent the latest state of the art with regard to emissions. They feature exhaust gas treatment technology, whose engine-proximate components consist of a diesel oxidation catalytic converter and an SCR coating on the diesel particulate filter. In order to optimally reduce nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions, a second metering unit is additionally integrated at the outlet of the engine-proximate SCR system.

BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé: Additional engines and new optional extras.

New engines will be available from November 2020 for the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé. The new BMW 116i (combined fuel consumption: 5.8 – 5.4 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 133 – 124 g/km) is powered by a 3-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 80 kW/109 hp and a maximum torque of 190 Nm. It is equipped as standard with a manual 6-speed transmission and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 10.6 seconds. A 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available. In addition, the model range will be expanded to include the new BMW 120i (fuel consumption combined: 5.8 – 5.5 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 134 – 126 g/km). Its 4-cylinder petrol engine generates a maximum output of 131 kW/178 hp and a maximum torque of 280 Nm and is combined as standard with a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch. The new BMW 120i accelerates from a standing start to 100 km/h in 7.0 seconds.

Outstanding economy is the hallmark of the new entry-level diesel engine for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé. The 3-cylinder diesel engine of the new BMW 216d Gran Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 4.1 – 3.8 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 108 – 99 g/km) provides a maximum output of 85 kW/116 hp and a maximum torque of 270 Nm. It transmits its power to a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch as standard and enables acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 10.3 seconds.

The range of optional equipment for the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé is supplemented by the BMW Individual Shadow Line lights. With the black inserts at the upper edge of the headlamps they make the front view even more powerfully expressive.

Active speed control with Stop&Go: new with traffic light recognition: Increased comfort and optimised safety in urban traffic.

The comfort and safety gains that can be achieved by combined speed and distance control can be experienced from autumn 2020 in numerous current BMW models, including when driving in urban traffic. In combination with the optional Driving Assistant Professional and the optional BMW Head-Up Display, the BMW 3 Series, BMW 4 Series and BMW 5 Series Series, the BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo, the BMW 7 Series and 8 Series as well as the BMW iX3, BMW X5, BMW X6, BMW X7, BMW M3, BMW M4, BMW M5, BMW M8, BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M in Germany the function of active speed control with Stop&Go now also a traffic light recognition available. In addition to vehicles and traffic signs in front, the signals of light signals registered by the front camera are also taken into account.

In the case of simple traffic light systems, these are automatically transferred to the speed and distance control. If the traffic light shows a red light, the system delays the vehicle to a standstill, a green light signal leads to the continuation of the journey. In a more complex intersection situation, the driver is offered the traffic lights for manual transfer in the instrument combination.

The driver can now confirm the light signal shown and thus continue to use the automatic speed and distance control or take control of the speed himself. The start-up reminder provides additional comfort in city traffic. During a stop at simple traffic lights, the current traffic light phase is displayed in the instrument combo, and at the beginning of the green phase, the driver also receives a signal to restart.

The function of traffic light recognition can also be retrofitted into the vehicle via remote software upgrade. With the exception of the BMW 8 Series models, this option is available for vehicles of all mentioned series, which were produced from July 2020 and are equipped with the Driving Assistant Professional and Head Up Display. Vehicles of the BMW X5, BMW X6, BMW X7 series include this option from August 2020 production.

New digital services for more driving pleasure: BMW News, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with new functions, personal profile picture and simple log-in.

The latest generation of the display and control system makes it possible to use new digital services in numerous current BMW models. The BMW Operating System 7, which is available in conjunction with BMW Live Cockpit, BMW Live Cockpit Plus or BMW Live Cockpit Professional, allows the driver to customise what is displayed to a very high degree. From November 2020, audio content will also be tailored to the driver’s wishes and needs with BMW News. Based on the driver’s individual interests, current online news is selected from publisher offerings and broadcast in the form of naturally spoken language via the vehicle's audio system.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is one of the particularly innovative services that features in current models with BMW Operating System 7. The digital companion, which enables intuitive operation of numerous vehicle functions via voice control (“Hey, BMW”), is constantly gaining new capabilities. From autumn 2020, the operating modes MAX eDrive and AUTO eDrive or ELECTRIC and HYBRID can also be activated in the appropriately equipped plug-in hybrid models by means of a naturally spoken instruction. In addition, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will be able to play back the drive sounds of other BMW models via the audio system when asked a corresponding question such as ("What does a BMW M3 sound like?") in cars delivered to the German market.

Optimised options for creating a driver profile allow further customisation opportunities. From November 2020, the driver can no longer only login by entering the BMW ID manually, but also via the My BMW App as well, making the process very convenient. A QR code generated for this purpose can be displayed on the Control Display, which can be scanned using a smartphone. The personal driver profile data can then be transferred to the vehicle. Also new: The driver can add a photo of his choice to his individual profile.

BMW X1 and BMW X2: New headlamp variants and BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line with extended features.

Adaptive LED headlights will be available for the compact BMW X2 Sports Activity Coupé from November 2020. They optimise visibility when driving at night, among other things by means of a high beam matrix function. This feature is able to increase the range of vision while at the same time avoiding any dazzle effect on other road users. To achieve this, the high beam is divided into several LED segments that can be activated and deactivated independently of each other to adapt how the road is illuminated to the respective traffic situation.

In addition, the striking BMW Individual Shadow Line lights are available as a new option for the BMW X2 and the BMW X1. The sporty appearance of the BMW X2 can be further enhanced by the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line with extended features. In addition to the high-gloss black side window surrounds, this option includes a black frame for the BMW kidney grille and tailpipe trims in chrome black.

New paint finishes allow for expressive individualisation.

New additions to the range of paint finishes for numerous models will be introduced in autumn 2020 allowing for even greater levels of individualisation. The new San Remo Green metallic paint finish will also be available for the new BMW 4 Series Coupé in future. For the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7, the colours Dravit Grey metallic and Sparkling Brown metallic have been added to the range. In addition, the BMW Individual special paintwork finishes Grigio Telesto metallic, Urban Green metallic, Frozen Black metallic, Petrol Mica metallic, Ruby Red metallic, Avus Blue metallic and British Racing Green metallic are also available for the large BMW X models. 

For the BMW i3 (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) and BMW i3s (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) new paint finishes will also be available from November 2020. The purely electrically driven models will be available with paint finishes in Cashmere Silver with accents in BMW i Blue and Galvanic Gold with accents in Frozen Grey metallic and Fluid Black with accents in Frozen Grey metallic.

* all new models available with start of production in November 2020

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

Munich. With the introduction of 48-volt mild hybrid technology in additional model series from summer 2020, BMW continues to consistently reduce fuel consumption and emissions in its current vehicle fleet. From July and August 2020, both efficiency and dynamic performance will be optimised in 51 models with the use of a particularly powerful starter generator and an additional battery. This also applies to the new in-line 6-cylinder diesel engines in the BMW 7 Series and in the BMW X3, BMW X4, BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7. Two additional engine variants are available for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé from July 2020 onwards. In numerous plug-in hybrid models, the new BMW eDrive Zone function will ensure an automatic switch to purely electric operating mode when entering inner city areas such as low emission zones.

The extension of the range of standard and optional equipment features in the areas of driver assistance systems, operation and networking contributes to an increase in driving pleasure. A new display and control system will be part of the standard trim in the new BMW 3 Series from July 2020. Among other things, BMW Operating System 7 enables use of the optional BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Furthermore, in the BMW 3 Series and other model series the range of functions of the optional Driving Assistant Professional is supplemented by Active Navigation Guidance and the Emergency Lane Assistant. With the optional smartphone integration, numerous current BMW models will enable use of Android Auto in addition to Apple CarPlay as of summer 2020.

Increased dynamic performance and reduced fuel consumption: 48-volt mild hybrid technology now in 51 BMW models.
From summer 2020 onwards, mild hybrid technology will be used in numerous additional BMW models to provide support and relief for the combustion engine. It consists of a 48-volt starter generator that enables particularly intensive braking energy recuperation along with an additional battery to store the electricity that is generated in this way. The 48-volt battery not only supplies the electrically operated vehicle functions, it also makes its energy available to generate additional drive power. For this purpose the current flows back to the starter generator, which now takes on the role of an electric drive. This reduces the load on the combustion engine, allowing it to run as often as possible in an efficiency-optimised load range. What is more, the generator creates an electric boost during acceleration. This instantly available additional output of 8 kW/11 hp supports dynamic power delivery during start and acceleration.

The 48-volt mild hybrid technology was first introduced in selected model variants of the BMW 5 Series in autumn 2019. This was followed by the BMW 3 Series models and several BMW X models. From July and August 2020, it will be available as standard in 37 further model variants of the BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series and BMW 7 Series as well as the BMW X3, BMW X4, BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7. All in all it will ensure efficiency and dynamic performance in 51 current BMW models.

More power, less emissions: the new in-line 6-cylinder diesel engines with optimised BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology.
A new generation of in-line 6-cylinder engines will make its debut in numerous BMW model series in summer 2020. These highly efficient aluminium power units, each with a capacity of 3.0 litres, combine their extensively further developed BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology with the new 48-volt mild hybrid system, thereby achieving particularly significant progress within the context of BMW EfficientDynamics. In addition to optimised turbocharging systems, the latest version of common rail direct injection with piezo injectors ensures that both performance and efficiency are significantly increased in the new diesel engines. The injectors now transport fuel to the combustion chambers in up to ten injections per cycle and at a maximum pressure of 2,700 bar.

With maximum output increased by 15 kW/21 hp to 210 kW/286 hp, the new diesel engine for the models BMW 730d (combined fuel consumption: 4.9 – 4.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 128 – 123 g/km) and BMW 730d xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.2 – 5.0 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 138 – 133 g/km), BMW 730Ld (combined fuel consumption: 5.0 – 4.8 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 130 – 126 g/km), BMW 730Ld xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.3 – 5.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 139 – 133 g/km), BMW X3 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 5.6 – 5.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 147 – 137 g/km), BMW X4 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 5.6 – 5.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 146 – 136 g/km), BMW X5 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 6.2 – 5.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 164 – 150 g/km) und BMW X6 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 6.2 – 5.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 162 – 149 g/km) demonstrates a perceptibly enhanced temperament. Its particularly spontaneous power delivery is due to the multi-stage turbocharging used for the first time in this version of the in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine, along with variable turbine geometry for the low-pressure stage of the system. Increased by 30 to 650 Nm, the maximum torque of the new drive unit goes on stream at between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm – a power boost that especially results in enhanced sprint capacity. For example, the BMW 730d and the BMW 730d xDrive have improved their acceleration from zero to 100 km/h by 0.2 seconds each to 5.9 and 5.6 seconds respectively.

The new diesel engine now also used in the BMW 740d xDrive models BMW 740d xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.4 – 5.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 142 – 136 g/km), BMW 740Ld xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.4 – 5.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 143 – 137 g/km), BMW X3 M40d (combined fuel consumption: 6.0 – 5.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 157 – 148 g/km), BMW X4 M40d (combined fuel consumption: 5.9 – 5.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 156 – 147 g/km) und BMW X7 xDrive40d (combined fuel consumption: 6.6 – 6.4 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 173 – 167 g/km) generates even greater pulling power. Its multi-stage turbocharging system comprises a high-pressure and a low-pressure turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. As a result, a maximum torque of 700 Nm is delivered between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm. The engine reaches its peak output of 250 kW/340 hp at 4 400 rpm. In the BMW 740d xDrive, for example, this increased power helps achieve a sprint from standstill to 100 km/h that is also improved by 0.2 seconds to 5.0 seconds.

The two new engines are feature exhaust gas treatment technology with engine-related components consisting of a diesel oxidation catalytic converter and an SCR coating on the diesel particulate filter. For optimum reduction of nitrogen oxide (NO_X) emissions, a second dosage unit is additionally integrated at the outlet of the engine-related SCR system. As a result, the models powered by the new in-line 6-cylinder diesel engines meet the Euro 6d emissions standard.

Expansion of the model range for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé.
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé model range will be extended from July 2020 with the addition of two new engine variants. A new entry-level diesel engine and an additional all-wheel drive model variant are available for the sporty, elegant four-door model in the premium compact segment. The new BMW 218d Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 4.5 – 4.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 118 – 109 g/km) is powered by the latest version of a 4-cylinder diesel engine. The BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology in the 2.0-litre power unit now includes a two-stage turbocharging system as well as a likewise further developed common rail direct injection featuring solenoid valve injectors. The new engine delivers its maximum torque of 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, reaching a maximum output of 110 kW/150 hp at 4,000 rpm. The new BMW 218d Gran Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual transmission and in 8.5 seconds with the optional 8-speed Steptronic transmission.

The second diesel engine available for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé delivers a maximum output of 140 kW/190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. In the new BMW 220d xDrive Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 4.9 – 4.5 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 129 – 119 g/km) it is now combined with intelligent all-wheel drive and an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. This enables the new model variant to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. Thanks to state-of-the-art exhaust gas treatment including SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection, both new models meet the Euro 6d emissions standard.

Green light for BMW eDrive Zone: locally emissions-free travel in the city on an automated basis.
Innovative technology from the fields of electrification and digitalisation is combined in the new BMW eDrive Zone function available in the premium car manufacturer’s plug-in hybrid models. This globally unique digital service offers additional options for making optimum use of the capabilities of emissions-free driving. The BMW eDrive Zone function triggers an automatic switch to purely electric operating mode as soon as the vehicle enters selected urban areas such as low-emission zones.

BMW eDrive Zone will be a standard feature of all plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series as well as the BMW X5. The digital service uses geo-fencing technology via GPS to identify designated areas. eDrive zones of this kind are currently designated in some 80 cities throughout Europe. When the service is activated, each available eDrive Zone on the navigation map is graphically highlighted in the Control Display: a message appears to inform the driver that the vehicle will automatically switch to electric driving mode as soon as it enters an eDrive Zone.

From summer 2020, the above-mentioned plug-in hybrid models will also be fitted with an integrated drive-ready sound for electric power as standard. This means that both starting and stopping the electric drive will be accompanied by a distinctive acoustic signal. In addition there has been an expansion of the range of preconditioning functions, which is also a standard feature. Depending on the equipment fitted, more functions will be available that can be activated remotely by smartphone, in addition to interior cooling and heating. In future it will also be possible to activate the seat climate control before the start of a journey, for example. In the same way it will be possible to include the seat, steering wheel, exterior mirror and rear window heating systems in the preconditioning for heating the interior, as well as heating of the cameras for the driver assistance systems.

BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring now fitted with BMW Operating System 7 as standard.
In the new BMW 3 Series, the latest generation of the display and control system will be a standard feature as of summer 2020. Previously only used in conjunction with BMW Live Cockpit Professional, BMW Operating System 7 offers extensive individualisation and personalisation of the content shown on the Control Display. The standard BMW Live Cockpit now also includes a redesigned instrument cluster with a 5.1-inch digital display at its centre. BMW Live Cockpit Plus, like BMW Live Cockpit Professional, also includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. This digital companion enables intuitive operation of numerous vehicle functions via voice control (“Hey, BMW”). In the BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW Operating System 7 will also be part of the optional BMW Live Cockpit Plus from July 2020.

The M sports seats are new to the range of optional extras for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and the new BMW 3 Series Touring. They feature excellent lateral support, a wide range of adjustment options and headrests with embossed M logo. The M sports seats for driver and front passenger are available in conjunction with the Model M Sport equipment line as well as for the BMW M automobiles of the new BMW 3 Series. The choice of exterior colours for the new BMW 3 Series is supplemented by the variant Phytonic Blue metallic.

Increased comfort and safety: Driving Assistant Professional with additional functions.
The optional Driving Assistant Professional is a particularly comprehensive collection of driver assistance systems designed to optimise comfort and safety: it is being used by BMW to pave the way to automated driving in numerous current models. The focus is on the steering and lane guidance assistant, which will be enhanced with additional functions from summer 2020 in the BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series and BMW 8 Series, in the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7, and in all variants of the BMW M5 and BMW M8.

The new Active Navigation Guidance indicates lane changes that are necessary in order to continue driving along the selected route when destination guidance is active. The driver can then carry out this operation conveniently with the aid of the lane change assistant. Emergency Lane Assistant is another new function: this automatically guides the vehicle to the ideal edge of its lane in congested situations on motorways. In addition, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function will in future include an adaptive distance control that adapts to the respective traffic situation and environmental conditions.

Further progress is also being made in the intelligent control of the Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Indicator. In all model variants of the BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, the BMW Z4, the BMW X5, the BMW X6 and the BMW X7 as well as the BMW M5, the BMW M8, the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M, road sign detection will in future additionally take into account speed limits that are restricted in time and only apply on certain days of the week. On days other, the speed limit derived from the navigation data is displayed.

Optimised smartphone integration: Android Auto can now also be used in the vehicle in addition to Apple CarPlay.
Depending on the model series, either standard or optional smartphone integration will enable use not just of Apple CarPlay but also of the digital services provided by Android Auto in numerous current BMW models as of summer 2020. This means that owners of a smartphone with the Android operating system can now access their familiar smartphone apps in the vehicle, just like users of an Apple iPhone. These include the digital voice assistant Google Assistant, the map service Google Maps, music streaming services such as Spotify and Amazon Music, and the messaging service WhatsApp.

The systems are integrated directly in the vehicle's display and control system via a wireless LAN connection between the respective smartphone and the vehicle. Here, the driver can view all the important information from the apps on the Control Display and also navigation directions in the instrument cluster and the optional Head-Up Display.

BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series with optimised Integral Active Steering.
Sporty flair and ride comfort in the BMW 7 Series luxury sedans and the luxury sports cars of the BMW 8 Series benefit from Integral Active Steering. The optional suspension system combines a variable rack and pinion ratio on the front axle with selective co-steering of the rear wheels. Even at particularly low speeds of less than 3 km/h, the rear wheels are now countersteered. This gives the models of the BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series additional manoeuvrability when moving slowly in and out of parking spaces or passing through narrow gaps.

In addition, the BMW 7 Series will be available from July 2020 in the new exterior paint finish Phytonic Blue metallic and the BMW Individual paint finish Frozen Bluestone metallic. A fresh touch of luxury ambience is added to the interior with the BMW Individual leather steering wheel as well as the new version of the BMW Individual Merino full leather trim in the colour combination Smoke White/Night Blue/Black.

Extended Business Package for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer, new body finishes for the BMW i3 and numerous other models
The Business Package available for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer provides enhanced comfort and driving pleasure in city traffic as well as on lengthier trips. From July 2020 onwards it also includes Real Time Traffic Information. Another new addition to the range is the body finish in Cashmere Silver metallic, which is also available for the BMW X1. The BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer will also offered in Phytonic Blue metallic and Misano Blue metallic in future.

New body finishes are available for numerous other models, too. Phytonic Blue metallic and Sunset Orange metallic versions of the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé will be on offer from July 2020. The body finish Phytonic Blue metallic will also be available for the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7 as of August 2020. What is more, the BMW X5 and BMW X6 can be fitted with the new Carbon Fibre interior trim finishers and M Carbon exterior mirror caps in conjunction with the M sports package.

The purely electrically powered models BMW i3 (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) and BMW i3s (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) will be available from summer 2020 in the new body finish Blue Ridge Mountain with accentuations in Frozen Grey metallic.

Meanwhile new BMW Individual body finishes are available for the model variants of the high-performance sports car BMW M8. For the BMW M8 Series Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 10.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 242 g/km*) and the BMW M8 Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 10.8 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 246 g/km), the Ametrin metallic variant is now newly available. For both models and for the BMW M8 Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 10.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 244 g/km), the versions Bluestone metallic, Frozen Brands Hatch Grey metallic and Frozen Motegi Red metallic are likewise available.

* All new models available from start of production in July or August 2020

Munich. BMW is increasing the significance and appeal of plug-in hybrid drives in the premium mid-range segment with a comprehensive model offensive. In the BMW 3 Series, the range of vehicles with electrified drive will be expanded over the coming months from the one model as it currently stands to a total of four models. Following the successful market launch of the new BMW 330e Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 1.7 – 1.6 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 15.0 – 14.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 38 – 36 g/km*), the new BMW 330e Touring will also be available from summer 2020 (combined fuel consumption: from 1.7 l/100 km; combined power consumption: from 15.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: from 39 g/km, provisional figures*). In addition, both models will be available from summer 2020 with both classic rear-wheel drive and the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive.

In all BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid models, latest-generation BMW eDrive technology increases both efficiency and electrically powered range as well as hallmark driving pleasure. The spontaneous power delivery of the electric motor can be felt during start-up and acceleration, contributing in particular to the car's highly spirited character. The high energy content of the lithium-ion high-voltage batteries units featuring the very latest battery cell technology enables the plug-in hybrid models of the new BMW 3 Series to run on electrical power only – and therefore free of local emissions – with a maximum range of between 55 and 68 kilometres (provisional figures*).

In this way, the BMW Group continues to consistently pursue its model initiative in the area of electrically powered vehicles in 2020. As a pioneer in the field of electromobility, the company already sold half a million vehicles with purely electric or plug-in hybrid drive systems worldwide by the end of 2019. By the end of 2021, the BMW Group aims to have more than one million vehicles with electrified drive systems on the road. A quarter of the vehicles sold by the BMW Group in Europe will be electrified by 2021: this share will increase to a third by 2025 and to half by 2030. The BMW Group plans to expand its range to include 25 electrified models by 2023.

“Power of Choice”: considerable diversity in the range of plug-in hybrid models, too.

With its strategic “Power of Choice” approach, the BMW Group meets the individual mobility needs of its customers all over the world. A broad spectrum of drive technologies – including not just highly efficient petrol and diesel engines but also pure electric drive and plug-in hybrid systems – results in a well-adapted model selection that is tailored to a wide range of legal requirements and individual preferences. Diversity is continuously increasing in the range of electrically powered models, too. With the new plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 3 Series, customers now have additional options when it comes to aligning their desire for sustainable mobility with their personal needs and preferences. The electrified Touring models combine maximum efficiency with the extended interior space enabled by their versatile body concept. The use of plug-in hybrid technology in conjunction with intelligent all-wheel drive is geared in particular to the requirements of driving on snow, in mountainous regions and off-road.

Depending on their equipment, all plug-in hybrid models in the new BMW 3 Series meet the criteria laid down in the German Electric Mobility Act for labelling as electric vehicles and therefore enjoy the special rights this entails in public road traffic due to their high electric range and low level of CO2 emissions. In addition, they also qualify for reduced company car taxation in Germany. Only half the gross list price is taken as a basis when calculating the monetary benefit arising from private use of a company car.

Premiere for Touring models with plug-in hybrid drive.

As of summer 2020, the advantages of an electrified drive system will be available in two BMW Touring models for the first time. They combine the progressive character of their drive system with the proven qualities of a vehicle concept that unites driving pleasure and functionality in a particularly appealing way. Their dynamic design is characterised by a long roof line, precisely drawn lines and powerful surfaces. In their versatile interior, the Touring models with plug-in hybrid drive offer exactly the same level of interior comfort on five seats as the conventionally powered model variants. Meanwhile the luggage compartment volume is only slightly limited due to the space-saving arrangement of the high-voltage battery under the rear seat. By folding down the rear backrest with a split of 40: 20, storage space can be extended to up to 1 420 litres.

The plug-in hybrid system of the new BMW 330e Touring comprises a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and an output of 135 kW/184 hp along with an electric motor integrated in the 8-speed Steptronic transmission which generates a peak output of 83 kW/113 hp. The system output generated by the two power units can be increased by an additional 30 kW/40 hp for up to 10 seconds under especially high loads. This standard XtraBoost is available in SPORT mode, which can be activated by means of the driving experience switch. It increases the system output to up to 215 kW/292 hp, thereby maintaining the model-specific properties of the sporting character so typical of the BMW 3 Series. The maximum system torque of the plug-in hybrid drive in the new BMW 330e Touring is 420 Nm.

The XtraBoost is also available during kickdown manoeuvres and after shifting the gear selector switch to the M/S position. The sporty characteristics of the new BMW 330e Touring are further underlined by model-specific drive sound tuning, a direct yet precise accelerator pedal curve and a specific shift programme as part of the 8-speed Steptronic transmission that includes brake downshifts.

Drawing on its two power units, the new BMW 330e Touring accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds (provisional figure). Its maximum speed is 220 km/h (provisional figure). In Hybrid mode the new BMW 330e Sedan is able to reach a speed of up to 110 km/h when running on electric power alone – in other words locally free of emissions. The combustion engine only switches on at higher speeds or when there are particularly high load requirements. When the Electric mode is activated with the eDrive button, the vehicle can even reach speeds of up to 140 km/h drawing on the power of its eDrive alone. Thanks to state-of-the-art cell technology, the lithium-ion high-voltage battery in the new BMW 330e Touring has an electrically powered range of 65 kilometres (provisional figure*).

Efficient and versatile: BMW eDrive in combination with BMW xDrive.

Parallel to the market launch of the BMW 330e Touring, two all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 3 Series will also see their launch. These feature the same plug-in hybrid system as the corresponding rear-wheel drive models. In the new BMW 330e xDrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: from 1.8 l/100 km; combined power consumption: from 16.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: from 42 g/km, provisional figures*) and in the new BMW 330e xDrive Touring (combined fuel consumption: from 2.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: from 17.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: from 46 g/km, provisional figures*), power delivery from the electric motor and engine is combined with power transmission to all four wheels. BMW eDrive meets BMW xDrive – combining exemplary efficiency with superior versatility.

Via an electronically controlled multi-disc clutch, the intelligent all-wheel drive system distributes the power from the engine and electric motor between the front and rear wheels as required at all times. Networked with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), the system adapts the distribution of drive torque precisely to the respective driving situation within a fraction of a second. Fully variable power distribution ensures maximum traction and driving stability in all road and weather conditions. It also supports the sporty handling of the sedan and touring model with plug-in hybrid drive. The new BMW 330e xDrive Sedan accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 224 km/h (provisional figures). The new BMW 330e xDrive Touring completes the standard sprint in 6.2 seconds, achieving a maximum speed of 214 km/h (provisional figures). With an electric range of 58 kilometres (provisional figure*) for the Sedan and 55 kilometres (provisional figure*) for the Touring model, the all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 3 Series also offer ideal conditions for using electric power alone to handle most day-to-day driving such as commuting or travelling within city limits.

Lithium-ion high-voltage storage with the very latest battery cell technology.

The plug-in hybrid models in the new BMW 3 Series owe their long electric range to the latest advances in battery cell technology. Their lithium-ion batteries, designed specifically for each model and manufactured by the BMW Group, have a gross energy content of 12.0 kWh and a capacity of 34 Ah. In relation to its size and weight, the high-voltage battery installed in the current generation provides a particularly extensive energy supply. The battery cells produced according to BMW Group specifications have an exceptionally high storage capacity. The electrical energy stored in the high-voltage battery is also used to supply the vehicle electrical system. This means that a generator powered by the combustion engine is no longer necessary, thereby further increasing the efficiency of the system as a whole. A 40-litre fuel tank ensures a total range that is suitable for long-distance travel, highlighting the capabilities of the plug-in hybrid models as touring vehicles.

The high-voltage battery is charged in a particularly efficient way during travel by means of brake energy recuperation. What is more, it can be charged at conventional household sockets using the standard charging cable. Using this method, the completely discharged battery can absorb 80 per cent of its total capacity within 4.2 hours. 5.7 hours is the estimated period required for a 100% recharge. With a BMW i Wallbox, these charging operations can be completed with 2.4 and 3.4 hours respectively. The charging socket is located under a separate flap on the front left side panel of the car.

Extensive standard equipment including auxiliary air conditioning.

All plug-in hybrid models in the new BMW 3 Series are fitted as standard with active pedestrian protection. When running on electric power at speeds of up to 30 km/h, an unmistakeable sound designed specifically for electrified BMW models is generated to alert other road users to the approaching car without impairing the acoustic comfort of vehicle occupants. In addition, the standard equipment of the BMW 3 Series models with electric drive includes 3-zone automatic air conditioning and auxiliary air conditioning. At low outdoor temperatures, the interior can also be conveniently heated prior to setting off – even if the battery charge status is low. The preconditioning function also enables the interior to be cooled at high outside temperatures. The interior can be pre-conditioned remotely via BMW Connected using a smartphone.

The standard equipment of the plug-in hybrid models in the BMW 3 Series also includes an automatic anti-dazzle interior mirror and Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear of the vehicle. BMW Live Cockpit ConnectedDrive, which also includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant in addition to a navigation system, Remote Services, Apple CarPlay preparation and Service Connected Music, is also standard equipment on the electrified models. As an alternative to the basic equipment, they are available in the form of a Sport Line, Luxury Line or M Sport model.

In addition, virtually the entire range of optional equipment features for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and the new BMW 3 Series Touring is available for the plug-in hybrid. This includes the Adaptive M suspension including Variable Sports Steering and the M sports braking system as well as the innovative driver assistance systems to optimise comfort and safety – from Driving Assistant Professional with steering and lane guidance assistant to Parking Assistant including reverse assistant. Another optional equipment feature is a tow hitch with electrically swivelling ball head. From summer 2020 onwards, the permissible towing capacity for all plug-in hybrid models in the new BMW 3 Series will be 1 500 kilograms in each case.

Hybrid-specific digital services from BMW Connected.

For the market launch of the new 3 Series plug-in hybrid models, new BMW Connected digital services will be presented which make charging the high-voltage battery en route even more attractive and convenient. When selecting a public charging station, the navigation system also provides the driver with a list of recommended nearby hotels, restaurants, cafés, tourist attractions and cultural institutions. Charging station availability can also be checked using the vehicle display and operating system. The driver receives the information along with a forecast of the occupancy status of the public charging station at the time of arrival. In future, it will also be possible to reserve a charging station for a limited period of time, providing the respective charging infrastructure operator supports this function.

With the new BMW eDrive Zones function, which will be a standard feature in all BMW plug-in hybrid models from summer 2020, urban environmental zones can be automatically detected using geo-fencing technology. On entering the zone, the vehicle then automatically switches to purely electric mode, responding in the same way as a purely electrically powered vehicle and enjoying the same access rights, as per local regulations. The new function ensures even better exploitation of the potential offered by plug-in hybrid vehicles. The increase in the distance covered electrically not only helps optimise efficiency and reduce emissions, it also reduces the customer’s operating costs. This applies particularly to city traffic, where electric power consistently achieves a higher level of efficiency than a petrol or diesel engine.

BMW plug-in hybrid models: wide-ranging benefits in day-to-day use.

Compared to conventional drive forms, BMW plug-in hybrid already offers its users wide-ranging benefits:

• Savings: electrically powered driving in the city costs less than running a car on petrol or diesel if the vehicle is charged at home or at work.
• Always the right temperature when you get in: auxiliary heating and air conditioning come as standard.
• Braking is a benefit: the battery is charged when the brakes are applied. In conventional cars, it simply generates heat and wears down the brakes.
• The best of both worlds: plug-in hybrid cars offer electrically powered driving pleasure in town and classic BMW driving pleasure over long distances

• Future-proof: since plug-in hybrids are able to run emissions-free, they provide access to many environmental zones as well as parking privileges and savings on toll fees.
• Enhanced quality of life in cities: by activating the electric driving mode, users can contribute to reducing emissions and traffic noise in cities.

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. From the spring of 2020, BMW will contribute towards a further reduction of consumption levels and the optimisation of the emission performance of current models through the use of systematically evolved drive technology. In parallel with the expansion of the range of models featuring all-electric and plug-in hybrid drive scheduled to follow during the course of the year, both the efficiency and the exhaust emission quality of petrol-driven vehicles will be significantly increased.  This is ensured, inter alia, by innovative mild hybrid technology which, following the BMW 5 Series, will as from March/April also be deployed in the BMW 3 Series as well as the model series BMW X3 and BMW X4. At the same time, in the spring of 2020, 33 further BMW models will already comply with the Euro 6d emission standard, which will not become obligatory until 2021.

A further drive variant for the BMW 1 Series as well as additional engines for the BMW 3 Series Sedan and the BMW 3 Series Touring will enhance the diversity of available options in the premium compact and premium midrange segment. Additional options for interior design provide for greater individuality in the BMW X5, the BMW X6 and the BMW X7.

Electric pulling power for efficiency and dynamics: Mild hybrid technology with 48-volt starter generator for further models. 

BMW is extending the use of mild hybrid technology to further models. This innovation, first introduced in the autumn of 2019 for the four model variants of the BMW 520d (combined fuel consumption: 4.9 – 4.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 112 – 108 g/km), comprises an extremely powerful 48-volt starter generator as well as an additional battery, and enhances both efficiency and dynamics of vehicles equipped with this technology. As from the spring of 2020, mild hybrid technology will also be featured as standard in the models BMW 320d Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 4.1 – 4.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 107 – 105 g/km), the BMW 320d Touring (combined fuel consumption: 4.3 – 4.2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 112 – 109 g/km), the BMW 320d xDrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 4.4 – 4.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 117 – 114 g/km), the BMW 320d xDrive Touring (combined fuel consumption: 4.5 – 4.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 119 – 117 g/km), the BMW X3 xDrive20d (combined fuel consumption: 5.1 – 4.8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 134 – 126 g/km) and the BMW X4 xDrive20d (combined fuel consumption: 5.1 – 4.8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 133 – 125 g/km).

Mild hybrid technology provides significantly greater possibilities to make use of brake energy recuperation. The energy recuperated when accelerating and braking is not only used to provide electrically powered vehicle functions with energy but also to generate additional drive power. The 48-volt starter generator delivers an additional power output of up to 8 kW/11 hp. The electric over-boost is made available very spontaneously, thus enhancing dynamics when starting off and accelerating from a standstill.  During the journey, the electric over-boost can be used to support the combustion engine, enabling it to run as frequently as possible within an efficiency-optimised load range and to reduce consumption peaks. Moreover, when driving within inefficient operational ranges, it is possible to supply the 48-volt battery with additional energy from the starter generator by raising the load point when required.

Furthermore, the 48-volt starter generator provides for exceptionally smooth switching off as well as a faster and thus more comfortable re-starting of the combustion engine when the Auto Start Stop function is used at road junctions or in traffic jams. When the vehicle decelerates, the combustion engine can be disconnected at a speed of less than 15 km/h. The kinetic energy gained when decelerating further to a standstill is then used for recuperation. The efficiency-enhancing effect of the “coasting” function has also been optimised. At a speed of up to 160 km/h, the combustion engine is no longer switched into idle mode but is completely disconnected. During the journey, engine re-start is also fast and comfortable. The optimised “coasting” function is available both in the COMFORT and ECO-PRO modes of the Driving Experience Switch.

Optimised emission performance: 40 BMW models now already fulfil the future Euro 6d emission standard.

With yet a further optimisation of the emission performance of numerous models, BMW is preparing well in advance for future legal requirements governing exhaust emissions. As from the spring of 2020, 33 further models from various model series will fulfil the Euro 6d exhaust emission standard. Consequently, 40 BMW models comply with the demands specified by the more stringent standard a year prior to the new emission regulation coming into force.

The vehicles that will already comply with the Euro 6d emission standard as from the spring of 2020 include model variants of the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series and BMW 3 Series as well as the BMW X1, BMW X2, BMW X3, BMW X4, BMW X5 and the BMW X6.

New drive variants for the BMW 1 Series, the BMW 3 Series Sedan and the BMW 3 Series Touring.

Starting in March 2020, additional drive variants will increase the diversity of the BMW 1 Series and BMW 3 Series model range. The BMW 120d (combined fuel consumption: 4.6 – 4.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 121 – 112 g/km) will be added to the model range in the premium compact segment. The power generated by the car’s 2-litre, 140 kW/190 hp four-cylinder diesel power unit featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology is transferred to the front wheels via a standard 8-speed Steptronic transmission, allowing the new BMW 120d to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and to reach a top speed of 231 km/h. The new BMW 120d is one of the models that already fulfil the Euro 6d emission standard.

A new four-cylinder petrol engine with a displacement of 2 litres and BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology complements the drive portfolio for the new BMW 3 Series. The power unit for the new BMW 318i Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 5.7 – 5.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 130 – 120 g/km) and the new BMW 318i Touring (combined fuel consumption: 6.2 – 5.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 140 – 130 g/km) delivers a maximum power output of 115 kW/156 hp and a peak torque of 250 Nm. The standard equipment range for the new BMW 3 Series entry model includes an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/ is 8.4 seconds for the Sedan and 8.7 seconds for the Touring model. Top speed is 223 km/h (BMW 318i Sedan) and 220 km/h (BMW 318i Touring) respectively.

BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series with extended standard configuration, additional offer of leather options and interior trims for the BMW X5, the BMW X6 and the BMW X7.

From March 2020, a broader range of standard features will enhance comfort in the luxury-class models of the BMW 7 Series and the BMW 8 Series. In future, BMW 7 Series luxury sedans, BMW 8 Series luxury sports cars as well as the high-performance models BMW M8 Competition Coupe (combined fuel consumption: 10.6 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 242 g/km), BMW M8 Competition Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 10.8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 246 g/km) and BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe (combined fuel consumption: 10.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 244 g/km) will be equipped with an automatic soft-close function for the doors.

Thanks to a wider selection of leather options and interior trims, there are now new possibilities to individualise the models BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7. As from April, the leather trim perforated Vernasca in the colour Canberra Beige is additionally available for these three models. In the future, the BMW X6 can be ordered with the leather trim perforated Vernasca in the colour Cognac. Likewise available for the Sports Activity Coupe are the extended BMW Individual leather options Merino in the colours Tartufo and Ivory White and the colour combination Ivory White/Night Blue as well as the BMW Individual all-leather interior trim Merino in the colours Coffee and Tartufo. Also new in the range of options for the BMW X6: High-grade Poplar Grain, Anthracite-Brown, open-pored.

* All new models available at start of production in March 2020 

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

The figures have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle and adapted to NEDC for comparison purposes. In these vehicles, different figures than those published here may apply for the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related duties which are (also) based on CO2 emissions.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available free of charge at all sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

In case of queries, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Kai Lichte, Product Communications BMW Automobiles

Phone: +49-89-382-51240
E-mail: kai.lichte@bmwgroup.com

Eckhard Wannieck, Head of Product and Brand Communication

Phone: +49-89-382-28042

E-mail: Eckhard.Wannieck@bmwgroup.com

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 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2019, the BMW Group sold over 2,520,000 passenger vehicles and more than 175,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2018 was € 9.815 billion on revenues amounting to € 97.480 billion. As of 31 December 2018, the BMW Group had a workforce of 134,682 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.

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Munich. The new BMW 3 Series sets new standards for driving dynamics, aesthetic appeal and advanced technology in the areas of control/operation, driver assistance and connectivity. And the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring also lead the way in their class when it comes to safety. The latest-generation 3 Series has been awarded the maximum five-star rating in the recent round of Euro NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) crash testing. Added to which, it emerged with the best ever result for adult occupant protection achieved by a “large family car” (midsize model) since the introduction of the current, extremely demanding Euro NCAP test format. The BMW 3 Series also recorded excellent results for child occupant protection, “Vulnerable Road User” (e.g. pedestrian) protection and standard safety equipment.

A five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing represents a glowing endorsement of the effectiveness of a vehicle’s integrated safety concept, which – in the new BMW 3 Series, as in other models – encompasses both the body structure and the restraint systems. Supporting structures with a weight-optimised design and a high load-bearing capacity combine with precisely engineered deformation paths in the new 3 Series to provide the ideal basis for preserving the passenger cell’s rigidity in various types of collision – i.e. for keeping the occupants’ survival space intact. In Euro NCAP testing, the aluminium/high-strength steel safety passenger cell of the new BMW 3 Series proved to be extremely robust – both in the frontal and side collisions and the side pole impact. In a frontal collision, the forces acting on the vehicle are diverted via multiple load paths in the floor assembly, side frame, bulkhead and roof, and absorbed by large deformation zones. Reinforced side structures in the B-pillars and side sill areas, high-strength side impact members in the doors and sturdy seat cross-members protect the occupants in the event of a side-on collision. The seats and head restraints have been specially designed to minimise the risk of whiplash injuries resulting from a collision against the rear of the vehicle. Strengthened pillars and roof members ensure that the passenger cell retains its rigidity if the car rolls over.

Central safety electronics control the functioning of the various restraint systems fitted in the new BMW 3 Series. This means the three-point inertia-reel seatbelts on all seats deploy as part of a precisely coordinated response with the front, side and head airbags – according to the type of impact and its severity. The testers’ evaluation of the crash test results revealed that the new BMW 3 Series offers exceptionally high levels of protection for adult occupants, with an almost perfect score of 97 per cent. They are therefore protected from injury to an outstanding degree, regardless of their height or the seat’s position.

The levels of safety for children also impressed the test team. ISOFIX child seat attachments for the outer seats in the rear of the new BMW 3 Series make this an extremely safe place for children to travel. With the relevant seat systems fitted for six- and ten-year-old passengers respectively, the readings showed the test dummies were exposed to extremely modest loads in both the frontal and side crashes. The new 3 Series scored 23.8 out of a maximum 24 points for this criterion.

Evaluating the protective measures for vulnerable road users (such as pedestrians and cyclists), also forms part of Euro NCAP crash testing. The new BMW 3 Series reduces the risk of injury to these groups with carefully contoured body elements and flexible structures around its front end. It also has an active bonnet, whose pyrotechnic release mechanism is triggered as soon as the sensor data indicates a relevant type of collision. This raises the bonnet, creating a deformation zone that prevents direct impact with unyielding components in the engine compartment.

The extensive active safety features fitted as standard on the new BMW 3 Series are another factor in its five-star rating. The collision and pedestrian warning with braking function managed to safely avert a collision in all test scenarios, earning it maximum points in the assessment. This technology forms part of the standard Active Guard system that also comprises Lane Departure Warning with lane return and the Speed Limit Display road sign detection system with no-overtaking indicator. Standard specification for the 3 Series also includes DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), a tyre pressure indicator showing the pressures for each wheel, the Attentiveness Assistant and intelligent emergency call with BMW Accident Assistance.

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.

Munich. A combination of peerless dynamics and exemplary efficiency defines the character of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. And now the addition to the range of drive solutions of a plug-in hybrid system brings an extra, particularly future-focused angle to the new sports sedan’s core attributes. The latest generation of BMW eDrive technology teams up with a four-cylinder petrol engine to significantly enhance the sporting prowess of the new BMW 330e Sedan (whose worldwide market launch is now underway) and deliver an even richer electric driving experience. Making its debut appearance in a BMW, the standard-fitted XtraBoost raises the system output of the plug-in hybrid to a maximum 215 kW/292 hp. The lightning-fast responses of the drive system headline the new BMW 330e Sedan’s driving characteristics. Added to which, its electric range is over 50 per cent greater than that of its predecessor; 66 kilometres (41 miles)* is possible with zero local emissions. Fuel consumption and emissions are down by more than 15 per cent on the levels of the predecessor model – to 1.9 – 1.6 litres per 100 kilometres (148.7 – 176.6 mpg imp)* and 43 – 37 grams of per kilometre*.

In the new BMW 330e Sedan, the intelligently controlled interplay of electric motor and combustion engine reaches a whole new level. The electrification of the powertrain contributes more than ever not only to increasing efficiency but also to a distinctive form of driving pleasure. The plug-in hybrid system pools the abilities of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and output of 135 kW/184 hp with the talents of an electric motor, which generates peak output of 83 kW/113 hp. Together, the two drive sources produce maximum system torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft).

Premiere in the new BMW 330e Sedan: XtraBoost for maximum dynamic performance.

A brand-new feature – and included as standard in the new BMW 330e Sedan – is XtraBoost, which reveals the car at its most dynamic. The driver can quickly bring XtraBoost into play by activating SPORT mode with the Driving Experience Control switch. A vigorous stamp on the accelerator uncorks an additional 30 kW/40 hp on top of the combined 185 kW/252 hp already generated by the combination of electric motor and combustion engine – and XtraBoost keeps it on tap for up to 10 seconds. The result is the signature powertrain character of the BMW 3 Series Sedan, comprising (for the first time in a hybrid model from BMW) incredibly sporty yet also precise accelerator response, and a specific shift program for the eight-speed Steptronic transmission including engine-braking downshifts.

The instant-impact XtraBoost delivers a significantly more intense experience of acceleration than a conventionally powered vehicle with comparable output could offer. For example, if the driver suddenly puts their foot down hard from 20 km/h (12 mph), in as little as a second the new BMW 330e Sedan accelerates with around twice the vigour of a car powered solely by a combustion engine. Within three seconds, it opens up a car’s-length gap. XtraBoost can still be accessed with the high-voltage battery at minimum charge, as well as in kickdown and with the transmission selector lever in the M or S position.

The new BMW 330e Sedan sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.9 seconds en route to a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The driving experience is accompanied by a model-specific and emotionally engaging drive system note, which also finds its way into the interior. And so the new BMW 330e Sedan vividly showcases its sporty and dynamic side, blended with the proven qualities of a plug-in hybrid car.

Pure-electric driving at up to 140 km/h (87 mph).

In the HYBRID driving mode, the new BMW 330e Sedan can hit speeds of up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on electric power alone – an increase of 30 km/h (19 mph) over its predecessor. And ELECTRIC mode opens the door to locally emission-free driving at 140 km/h (87 mph), up from 120 km/h (75 mph). Hybrid-specific standard features of the new BMW 330e Sedan include acoustic pedestrian protection. When driving on electric power, an exterior speaker system generates an unmistakable sound created specifically for electrified BMWs. At low speeds, the drive system’s bespoke note exudes aural presence, without impinging on the acoustic comfort of those on board.

The new BMW 330e Sedan’s electric motor is integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, saving space. Intelligent design allows the hybrid-specific version of the transmission to be no more than 15 millimetres longer than corresponding variants for conventionally powered variants of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. Power generation by means of braking energy recuperation, where the electric motor plays the role of a generator, works particularly effectively. The electric energy channelled into the high-voltage battery either in this way or when plugged into the power grid also feeds the 12-volt on-board power supply. All of which renders a combustion engine-driven generator surplus to requirements and further enhances overall system efficiency.

High range and efficiency bring tax benefits.

With a gross energy content of 12.0 kWh, the lithium-ion high-voltage battery in the new BMW 330e Sedan enables an increase in electric range of more than 50 per cent over its predecessor – to 59 – 66 kilometres (37 – 41 miles)*. Meanwhile, the second generation of the plug-in hybrid sports sedan cuts fuel consumption and emissions by over 15 per cent to 1.9 – 1.6 litres per 100 kilometres (148.7 – 176.6 mpg imp)* and 43 – 37 grams of CO₂ per kilometre*. The combined-cycle electric power consumption of the new BMW 330e Sedan is 15.4 – 14.8 kWh per 100 kilometres*. With its low CO₂ emissions and long electric range, the new BMW 330e Sedan fulfils all the requirements for reduced company car tax in Germany, where only half the gross list price is taken as a basis in determining the benefit of kind for private use.

The high-voltage battery in the new BMW 330e Sedan is mounted under the rear seats, while the petrol tank sits over the rear axle. This means the plug-in hybrid’s cargo-carrying ability is only slightly reduced, and load capacity of 375 litres can be expanded as required thanks to the 40 : 20 : 40 split/folding rear-seat backrests.

Customers opting for the plug-in hybrid model can choose from virtually the full list of options otherwise available for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. The new BMW 330e Sedan is also offered in Advantage, Sport Line, Luxury Line or M Sport form as an alternative to basic specification. And it can be ordered with features including Adaptive M suspension with variable sport steering and M Sport brakes. From November 2019, the new BMW 330e Sedan will also be available with a trailer coupling with electrically pivoting hitch ball. The maximum trailer load for the plug-in hybrid model is 750 kilograms.

Auxiliary heating and air conditioning as standard.

The full selection of innovative comfort- and safety-optimising driver assistance systems – from the Driving Assistant Professional with steering and lane control assistant to the Parking Assistant including reversing assistant – is also available. Standard specification for the new BMW 330e Sedan includes preconditioning of the interior with the heating or air conditioning. Energy stored in the high-voltage battery is used to power the auxiliary heating. In low outside temperatures, this means the interior can be warmed up with user-friendly ease before getting into the car, even when the battery charge is low. This interior preconditioning function also allows the interior to be cooled in higher ambient temperature.

With the launch of the new BMW 330e Sedan, new digital services will be presented which make charging the high-voltage battery during a journey even easier and more attractive. Selecting a public charging station prompts the navigation system to come up with recommendations on nearby hotels, restaurants, cafés and sights or cultural centres. And it is also possible to check the whereabouts of charging stations via the display and control system. The driver can likewise check the predicted availability of public charging points at the time of arrival. Added to which, it will be possible to reserve charging points for a limited time, should this facility be offered by the charging infrastructure operator in question.

The drive technology presented in the plug-in hybrid model variant of the new sports sedan will also be available in the new BMW 330e Touring from summer 2020. This will be the first time customers ordering a Touring model from BMW can choose a plug-in hybrid drive system. The new offering sees BMW forging ahead with its model offensive for vehicles with electrified drive systems.

BMW plug-in hybrid models offer an array of benefits in everyday use.

BMW’s plug-in hybrid drive systems already offer users a host of additional benefits over traditional solutions:

• Money-saving: Electric driving in urban areas is cheaper than using petrol or diesel if the plug-in hybrid vehicle is charged at home or at the workplace at low cost.
• Interior always at the right temperature, even before you get in: auxiliary heating and auxiliary air conditioning are fitted as standard.
• Braking is winning: The battery is charged under braking. In conventional vehicles, braking generates only heat and brake dust.
• The best of both worlds: Plug-in hybrids provide electric driving pleasure in urban areas and classical BMW driving pleasure over longer distances.

• Smoothing the way into the future: Because a plug-in hybrid can run emission-free, it is eligible to enter many low-emission zones, enjoys extra parking privileges and saves on toll charges.
• Better quality of life in cities: By driving on electric power, users can actively contribute to reducing emissions and traffic noise in cities.

Future-proof: BMW eDrive Zones ensure emission-free driving in low-emission zones.

The new BMW 330e Sedan is ready to take advantage of low-emission zones designated by cities exclusively for zero-emission driving. With the new BMW eDrive Zones function (which will be part of standard equipment for BMW plug-in hybrid models from 2020 and can be retrofitted), geofencing technology will make it possible to detect low-emission zones automatically. When entering these zones, the vehicle switches into pure-electric driving mode automatically, from which point it behaves like a fully-electric vehicle and can therefore enjoy equal access rights (subject to local regulations). The new function ensures the potential of plug-in hybrid vehicles is utilised to even greater effect. The increase in the proportion of journeys driven on electric power not only plays a role in optimising efficiency, it also helps to reduce operating costs for customers. This applies to driving in urban areas, in particular, where an electric drive system delivers a higher level of efficiency across the board than a petrol or diesel engine.

New BMW 330e Sedan has a smaller overall CO₂ footprint.

The “real” environmental impact of plug-in hybrid vehicles has been questioned on occasion, especially in markets where the proportion of green energy used by the public energy grid remains small. The BMW Group conducted a full-cycle CO₂ certification for the new BMW 330e Sedan – from raw material procurement, the supply chain, production and the use phase, all the way to recycling.

This revealed the CO₂ footprint of the new BMW 330e Sedan to be 20 per cent smaller than that of the new BMW 330i Sedan when running on average European power in the use phase. When charging the car with green energy, its CO₂ footprint is reduced by as much as 60 per cent.

Munich. Premium automobile manufacturer BMW is consistently moving ahead with the electrification of its drive portfolio and now presents its latest plug-in hybrid models at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. At the same time, BMW also announces the market launch of an additional sports activity vehicle (SAV) with electric drive. The globally popular BMW X3 will likewise be produced in a plug-in hybrid variant as of December 2019. This makes it the first model of the brand to be offered with both a conventional combustion engine and a plug-in hybrid system – with the addition of a purely electrically powered version in 2020.

Once again in 2018, the BMW Group further consolidated its status as a pioneer and market leader in the field of electrified automobiles (source: IHS Markit New Registrations 2018 Report 04. 01. 2019). With a market share of more than 9 per cent, the company leads the worldwide ranking of established premium providers of vehicles that are purely electrically powered or run on plug-in hybrid systems. In 2018 the BMW Group was the market leader in the premium segment of electrified vehicles in both Germany and in China. With a share of more than 16 per cent, the company also once again led the overall European market for electrified vehicles. BMW Group achieved a new worldwide sales record in 2018 with more than 140 000 units of electrical and plug-in hybrid vehicles sold – an increase of 38.4 per cent over the previous year. As one of the four future-oriented ACES topic areas (Autonomous, Connected, Electrified and Services/Shared), electromobility is one of the key elements of the company’s strategy NUMBER ONE > NEXT. The aim of the BMW Group is to have put more than half a million electrified vehicles of its brands on the road by the end of 2019.

With the purely electrically powered BMW i3 (BMW i3: combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km*; BMW i3s: combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km*), the BMW i8 Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 1.8 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions from fuel: 42 g/km*) and the BMW i8 Roadster (combined fuel consumption: 2.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions from fuel: 46 g/km*), the plug-in hybrid variants of the BMW X5 and the BMW X3, the BMW 2 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series, the BMW X1 xDrive25Le produced in China for the local market, the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 (combined fuel consumption: 2.5 – 2.4 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.7 – 13.4 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 56 – 55 g/km*) and the purely electrically powered MINI, the BMW Group will have 12 electrically powered models in its programme by the end of 2019. Not only is the sheer number of vehicles available unique but also their variety – from the premium compact segment through to the mid-range, upper mid-range and luxury performance segment, and also including the sports car and sports activity vehicle categories. By 2025 the BMW Group will have increased the selection of its brands’ electrically powered vehicles to at least 25 models.

World premiere: the BMW X3 xDrive30e with plug-in hybrid drive.

BMW starts production of another SAV with plug-in hybrid drive in December 2019, thereby further expanding its range of electrically powered vehicles. Seeing its world premiere at the 2019 International Geneva Motor Show, the BMW X3 xDrive30e combines the versatile properties of a premium mid-range sports activity vehicle with cutting-edge BMW eDrive technology. Its robust characteristics, sporty driving performance figures and all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive – also active when running on electric power alone – are combined with outstandingly low levels of fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Due to the use of the very latest battery technology, the BMW X3 xDrive30e achieves an electrically powered range of up to 50 kilometres*. Thanks to BMW eDrive technology, its combined fuel consumption is reduced to up to 2.4 litres per 100 kilometres*, with CO₂ emissions of up to 56 grams per kilometre*.

The plug-in hybrid system in the BMW X3 xDrive30e consists of a 4-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and an electric motor. Both drive units put their power on the road – or unsurfaced terrain – via an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and the intelligent all-wheel drive system. Their joint system output of 185 kW/252 hp can be increased by up to 30 kW/41 hp by temporary use of the electric motor's peak output. The BMW X3 xDrive30e takes just 6.5 seconds (provisional figure) to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h.

The latest BMW plug-in hybrid model is fitted with a lithium-ion battery which is positioned under the rear seat in order to save space. With a luggage volume of 450 litres, the transport capacity of the BMW X3 xDrive30e is at the level of those model variants which are fitted with a conventional engine.

Other world premieres in Geneva: BMW 330e Sedan, BMW X5 xDrive45e and the plug-in hybrid models of the new BMW 7 Series.

The leading role of the BMW Group in the area of electrification is also reflected in its current engine range. At the 2019 International Geneva Motor Show, BMW presents the second generation of plug-in hybrid models in as many as three vehicles segments.

The new BMW 330e Sedan is especially impressive due to an increase in electrically powered range as compared to its predecessor model of some 50 per cent to up to 60 kilometres*, a level of fuel consumption that has been reduced to up to 1.7 litres per 100 kilometres* and CO₂ emissions reduced to 39 grams per kilometre* – all combined with the sports sedan’s hallmark driving pleasure. The system output of its plug-in hybrid drive amounts to 185 kW/252 hp – with the possibility of a temporary increase by an additional 30 kW/41 hp using the standard XtraBoost. As a result, the new BMW 330e Sedan does the sprint from standing to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds (provisional figure).

Increased output, efficiency and electrically powered range are also offered by the latest version of the BMW X5 with plug-in hybrid drive. The new BMW X5 xDrive45e is now fitted with an in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine adapted on a model-specific basis combined with an electric motor – with a system output that is now increased to 290 kW/394 hp. 5.6 seconds (provisional figure) is all it takes the sports activity vehicle to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h. Its electrically powered range is now approximately 80 kilometres*, almost three times that of its predecessor. As such, day-to-day commuter runs can easily be covered on electric power only, thereby reducing local emissions to zero. With its 69-litre fuel tank, the BMW X5 xDrive45e is also perfectly suited to use over long distances. Its progressive plug-in hybrid drive technology reduces combined fuel consumption to up to 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres* and CO₂emissions from fuel to up to 49 grams per kilometre*. The qualities of the BMW X5 xDrive45e as a travel vehicle are likewise borne out by its versatile luggage compartment: here the storage volume of 500 to 1 716 litres is only very slightly less than that offered by variants of the SAV that are powered by conventional means. The ground-breaking all-round properties of the BMW X5 xDrive45e are complemented with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. This transfers the power of both drive units to all four wheels, providing sports-style driving pleasure on the road and supreme off-road performance over unsurfaced terrain.

In the plug-in hybrid models of the new BMW 7 Series, the sporty flair, travel comfort and feel-good ambience of a luxury sedan are combined with the ability to enjoy locally emissions-free and virtually noiseless mobility. Their electrically powered range has been increased by almost 30 per cent as compared to the predecessor models, now at a distance of between 50 and 58 kilometres*. The model range comprises the BMW 745e (combined fuel consumption: 2.3 – 2.1 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 15.6 – 15.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 52 – 48 g/km*), the long version BMW 745Le (combined fuel consumption: 2.3 –2.2 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 15.7 – 15.6 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 53 – 50 g/km) and the BMW 745Le xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 2.6 – 2.3 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.3 – 15.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 59 – 52 g/km*) with extended wheelbase and intelligent all-wheel drive. Its drive system now comprises an in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine adapted on a model-specific basis together with an electric motor. By setting the drive experience switch to SPORT mode, the driver can tap into a system output of 290 kW/394 hp. The new BMW 745e accelerates in 5.2 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, while the new BMW 745Le takes 5.3 seconds. Meanwhile the new BMW 745Le xDrive reaches the 100 km/h mark from standing in 5.1 seconds.

BMW 530e Sedan and BMW 225xe Active Tourer with further developed lithium-ion batteries and increased electrically powered range.

The latest progress in the field of battery cell technology has also led to an extension of the options for locally emissions-free driving in the plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 5 Series and BMW 2 Series. Although its dimensions remain unchanged, the new lithium-ion battery for the plug-in hybrid model of the BMW 5 Series Sedan now has a gross energy content that has been increased from 9.2 to 12.0 kWh. This means an increase in electrically powered range by more than 30 per cent to 64 kilometres*. The BMW 530e Sedan now achieves a combined fuel consumption of at least 1.7 litres per 100 kilometres* and CO₂ emissions of at least 38 grams per kilometre*. As an additional model variant, the all-wheel drive BMW 530e xDrive Sedan will also be included in the programme worldwide from July 2019 onwards. The latter achieves an electrically powered range of up to 57 kilometres*. Its combined fuel consumption is at least 1.9 litres per 100 kilometres*, while CO₂ emissions are at least 44 grams per kilometre*.

In the BMW 225xe Active Tourer, state-of-the-art battery cell technology paves the way to further reduced consumption figures as well as an increase in the electrically powered range of more than 25 per cent to up to 57 kilometres*. While retaining the same dimensions as before, its lithium-ion battery now has a gross energy content that has been increased from 7.7 to 9.7. The combined fuel consumption of the BMW 225xe Active Tourer is at least 1.9 litres per 100 kilometres*, its combined power consumption is at least 14.7 kWh per 100 kilometres and its CO₂ emissions level is at least 43 grams per kilometre*. The hybrid-specific all-wheel drive system contributes to the BMW 225xe Active Tourer's sporty and versatile driving properties. Its standard and optional fittings include numerous modern driver assistance systems as well as the current innovations in the field of intelligent connectivity and digital services – for increased convenience when charging the high-voltage battery and an even more intense electrical driving experience.

Cutting-edge battery technology, new operating system and innovative digital services for an optimised electric driving experience.

In addition to the very latest battery technology, the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan, the new BMW X5 and the new BMW 7 Series also feature a new display and operating system as well as innovative digital services for an even more intense electric driving experience. Their standard fittings include the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with newly designed screens in the instrument panel and the Control Display, which also provide clearly laid-out details of the battery charge state, electrically powered range and operating mode of the plug-in hybrid system. The buttons used to select the drive mode are now integrated in the drive experience switch unit. Here, a press of the button is all that is needed to activate the modes SPORT for a particularly dynamic set-up and ADAPTIVE for a set-up that is geared towards the relevant driving style and situation, as well as the three operating modes HYBRID, ELECTRIC and BATTERY CONTROL. HYBRID mode serves as the standard setting that ensures a balanced set-up and optimised interaction between the combustion engine and electric motor. It also possible to select ELECTRIC mode as the standard setting via the iDrive menu. The HYBRID button is pressed twice to activate this operating mode in an efficiency-optimised version (HYBRID ECO PRO). The coasting function is one of the factors that contributes to a further reduction in fuel consumption.

The technology of the intelligent energy management system has likewise been further optimised. Since this is now linked to the navigation system, the interaction between combustion engine and electric motor can be adapted more precisely to the route and driving situation. In the new BMW 330e Sedan and the new BMW X5 xDrive45e, a control unit that draws on navigation and sensor data is also able to optimise brake energy recuperation efficiency in HYBRID ECO PRO mode. When approaching a junction or a vehicle driving ahead, for example, recuperation can be put to particularly intensive use for the purpose of deceleration.

During the charging process, the fully digital instrument panel provides graphically displayed information on the battery's current charge status and therefore the car’s potential electrically powered range. The graphic display – designed individually for each vehicle – also shows the amperage available at the charge station being used, as well as indicating when the battery is fully charged.

New digital services help make it more attractive and convenient to charge the high-voltage battery when out and about. For example, the navigation system shows the driver nearby hotels, restaurants, cafés and sights or cultural facilities when a public charging station is being selected. Customers are also given a forecast as to the occupation status of charging stations. In addition, BMW enables ChargeNow customers to reserve an enabled charging station for a limited period based on in-car activation.

A distinctive sound created especially for electrified BMW models is used for the purpose of acoustic pedestrian protection, emitted via a speaker system. The sound design in the low speed range radiates a vibrant acoustic presence, though without impairing the acoustic comfort of vehicle occupants.

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. 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 for sporty driving. 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 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.

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Munich/Paris. The BMW 3 Series Sedan is the Munich-based premium carmaker’s most successful model range worldwide and embodies the core of the BMW brand. The world premiere of the seventh-generation sports sedan is the highlight of the Mondial de l’Automobile 2018 show in Paris. And it will celebrate its global debut alongside an array of other new models at the press conference taking place at 9.00 a.m. CET on Tuesday, 2 October 2018. The venue for the press conference will be BMW’s stand upstairs in Hall 5.

At 4.00 p.m. CET the same day, also at the BMW stand, media representatives will be given exclusive insights into the design highlights, new technological features and innovations in the field of connectivity which shape the character of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG Harald Krüger, Board members Pieter Nota (Sales and Brand BMW), Klaus Fröhlich (Development) and Dr Nicolas Peter (Finance), plus a host of experts from various Development departments will be available for in-depth discussions about the new BMW 3 Series Sedan under the banner “Get Together – Get Your Story”.

The Mondial de l’Automobile 2018 is also hosting the show premieres of the new BMW Z4 and new BMW 8 Series Coupe, and the world premieres of the fourth-generation BMW X5 and new BMW M5 Competition (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.7 l/100 km [26.2 – 26.4 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 246 – 243 g/km).

If you cannot make it to Paris, you can catch the world premiere on the BMW Group live stream at http://www.live.bmwgroup.com/en/live-streaming/

Munich. As the new BMW 3 Series Sedan prepares for its world premiere, it can already look back over a lifetime of hard work. The new generation of the sports sedan is entering the final phase of an extensive programme of testing that every new BMW model must go through as part of its pre-production development. Here, the full range of stresses and strains a car will encounter over many years of everyday driving are reproduced in concentrated form. From extended periods driving flat out to endless stop-start traffic, sub-zero temperatures to searing heat, twisty country roads and high-speed autobahns to pothole-infested tracks, ice and snow to gravel and desert sand – the prototypes sent through the test programme for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan have experienced everything their production equivalents will come across in everyday life. Only they have done so at a much higher level of intensity and with seasoned developed engineers on board to record in detail the pre-production model’s every response to the various weather and road conditions and countless other influencing factors. In short, the testers ensure there are no circumstances – however unusual – which might compromise driving pleasure in the final production car.

Welcome to Death Valley, in the US state of Nevada. Here, it is not only the automatic climate control system of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan that can expect a taxing work-out. The multi-day heat tests see the cars fried repeatedly in the sun for several hours, then cooled and thoroughly checked over. Everything has to work, there can be no squeaks or creaks – even when the temperature tops 50 degrees Celsius in the shade outside the car and 60 degrees inside, and the interior is then cooled again as quickly as possible.

Heat, dust, hill climbs and electromagnetism – ideal conditions for informative testing.
The heat certainly gives the electronics something to think about, but that’s not the whole story: the electromagnetic rays emitted by the hydroelectric plant at the Hoover Dam represent the ultimate test of strength for the functional reliability of the electronic systems on board the new 3 Series. This is why all the car’s functions – from the digital instrument cluster to the tyre pressure indicator – are tested extensively in the shadows of the huge forest of electricity pylons on the banks of Lake Mead. At the same time, another development team is putting engines, transmissions and brakes through their paces. They are even given police protection for their runs up and down the 4,000-metre-high Mount Whitney. While law enforcement secures the test route at the top and bottom of the climb, the testers hustle the prototypes time and again up the snaking roads and back down – accelerating hard and braking suddenly to a standstill with crushing frequency. The bone-dry desert roads of Death Valley and beyond also provide an ideal place to find out how effective the cars’ flaps, doors, bonnets and lids are at keeping out dust. In their test drives around the gambling hot-spot of Las Vegas, the engineers leave nothing to chance.

There could be few greater contrasts with the hot-weather testing in the USA than what goes on at the BMW Group’s winter testing centre not far from the Arctic Circle. Arjeplog in Sweden offers the perfect conditions for a testing programme that eclipses anything day-to-day driving in central Europe, North America or Asia can throw at a car. However, Arjeplog doesn’t only give the prototypes the chance to demonstrate their imperviousness to extreme cold – it also provides the stage for the new model’s chassis controls systems to show off their full range of abilities. The closed-off expanses of ice offered by Lake Kakel and the “Mellanström-Runde”, one of the most popular test routes around Arjeplog, couldn’t be better suited for fine-tuning the DSC stability system and its myriad functions. Indeed, on this glassy surface you don’t need to drive quickly to provoke the control systems into action and therefore analyse their responses. All of which allows the link-up between DSC and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the interplay with the new BMW 3 Series Sedan’s M Sport differential to be refined down to the last detail under constant conditions.

Here again, cutting-edge technology helps to identify and consistently eliminate weak points. If an inconsistency crops up during testing, the engineer presses a button on the small testing screen next to the transmission’s selector lever to log it for subsequent analysis. For the problem to be solved, the relevant situation has to be reproduced exactly. The vehicle data is stored on a large hard drive in the car’s boot, pored over every day and reworked.

Dressed to test – in tailored camouflage suits.
In the north of Sweden, as in the west of the USA, the test drives carried out by the BMW development teams rarely go unnoticed. Which means that, to prevent curious onlookers from clocking too many details of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan’s design, every prototype is carefully clad in a disguise before it heads out onto public roads. In the basement of BMW’s Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich, pre-production vehicles are kitted out with a made-to-measure and confusingly patterned cloak of camouflage. Applying the black-and-white wrap requires an expert hand and takes a whole working day to complete. Then comes the plastic cladding, which distorts the lines and surfaces of the car. The light units, sections of the window surfaces and, of course, the brand badges also get a layer of sticky camouflage. The interior needs to be hidden from sight as well. To this end, the cockpit is “curtained off” with black matting, which the test engineers partially remove at the start of testing and then painstakingly replace at every pause in proceedings – so that no prying eyes can spot or even get a photograph of the displays and controls.

From a computer model via a test bench to the road.
Long before the first test runs on public roads, the development process sees each new model taken into the company’s own testing facilities. In the initial phase of the programme, computer simulations help to set important areas of the car off on the right path. Here, the testing programme – which is still purely digital at this stage – involves simulating more than 12,000 driving manoeuvres (from lane changes to cornering and roundabout driving to dynamic acceleration and braking) using a computer-generated vehicle model, with the sole aim of determining and optimising its dynamic properties. On the basis of the knowledge gained here, development mules are made consisting of just a body and chassis. On the kinematics compliance test bench they are fixed into a test assembly and sent on virtual test drives. A variety of road conditions can be faithfully reproduced on this test rig, from cobblestones to the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, so the rigidity of the body structure or the susceptibility to vibrations of axle constructions can be properly inspected. This intensive development work is essential in enabling the first full prototypes to already display the target driving characteristics. However, they still have to prove they can do it on the road. In normal traffic, on BMW proving grounds and on the race track they undergo a detailed tuning process, which gives the eventual production cars their inimitable driving pleasure.

Wind tunnel for detailed touches, crash tests for controlled deformation.
Optimisation of aerodynamics and passive safety also takes place largely behind closed doors. At the BMW Group’s Aerodynamic Test Centre in Munich, full-size vehicle models, prototypes and production vehicles are tested using precise reproduction of real-life airflow conditions on the road. At the centre’s wind tunnel, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan has been given the detailed touches required to bring its drag coefficient down to 0.23. The key factors here are not only how the car manipulates the airflow, the ideal channelling of air around the underbody and the optimisation of the spoiler lip at the rear of the body, but also details such as combinations of wheels and tyres. The introduction of the WLTP fuel consumption testing procedure has meant all the wheel variants available for a particular model have to be put through an extensive aerodynamics test. Every variant is checked to establish how the wheel design and tyre size impact on the aerodynamic characteristics of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and therefore its fuel consumption and emissions. 

Differences in the stipulations for occupant protection applicable in different continents mean that several pre-production examples of a new model have to be deformed in a controlled process as part of crash testing at BMW’s Safety Centre. As a result, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan not only provides driving pleasure to customers around the globe, it also meets the full set of safety requirements to score top marks in all the relevant crash tests worldwide.

Driving pleasure made in Aschheim, at Miramas and on the Nürburgring.
The proving grounds at Aschheim, a few miles north-east of the development centre in Munich, provides the venue for undisturbed dynamic testing. It was here, at an early stage of the development process, where the first steps were taken in imbuing the new BMW 3 Series Sedan with its impressive dynamic potential. The testing programmes at the BMW Group’s test facility in Miramas, southern France are even more extensive. Used by BMW for the development and testing of new models for over 30 years, Miramas has a long asphalt oval, a motorway “ring” for high-speed testing, slalom, twisty and spherical tracks, plus several handling courses and circuits with surfaces of every kind. Detailed analysis and optimisation of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan’s acceleration, steering and braking responses was also carried out here.

The acid test for a vehicle’s driving dynamics remains the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit. Precise tuning of all powertrain and chassis systems is carried out at the legendary venue in Germany’s Eifel mountains. Here, too, every lap of testing with the new BMW 3 Series Sedan carries far more weight than the number of miles notched up might suggest. After all, if a car gets the thumbs up from the BMW test engineers at the Nordschleife, you can be confident it will provide driving pleasure in everyday conditions throughout its lifetime.

Munich. The next generation of the BMW 3 Series Limousine is just completing the crucial stages on the way to serial production maturity. There was only one possible setting when it came to driving dynamics testing and set-up runs: the legendary Nordschleife at Nürburgring. Test runs at the "Green Hell" traditionally serve as an endurance test for the drive and suspension technology of newly developed BMW models. A particularly extensive testing programme was developed for the camouflaged prototypes of the new BMW 3 Sedan. After all, the comprehensive renewal of the wheel suspension, steering, damping/suspension and brakes provided the developers with a broad range of opportunities to optimise ride comfort and dynamic performance, enabling the ultimate sports sedan for the mid-range premium segment to mature lap by lap.

The underlying concept of the four-door model shows just how much the development process for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan is geared towards enhanced sporty flair. The centre of gravity is some 10 millimetres lower than in the predecessor model, axle load distribution is balanced at a harmonious 50 : 50 and the total weight adjusted for fittings is as much as 55 kilograms less. Meanwhile the rigidity levels of the body structure and suspension attachment – so crucial to the steering set-up and ride acoustics – have been significantly enhanced. The car's agility and steering precision benefit from much expanded track widths, while increased wheel camber levels offer additional potential for maximum transverse dynamics.

In terms of the engine portfolio, one particularly striking feature is a thoroughly revised 4-cylinder petrol engine. It is the most powerful 4-cylinder engine ever to be fitted in a BMW series production model. Yet its fuel consumption figures are still some 5 per cent below those of the predecessor engine: one contributing factor here is the further developed 8-speed Steptronic transmission. What is more, a particulate filter optimises the emissions response of the new engine, enabling it to meet the Euro 6d-TEMP exhaust standard.

Not only is the body lighter and more rigid in design than that of the predecessor model, the same is also true of the front and rear axle in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. The result is a specific orientation of the axle kinematics and elastokinematics towards supreme yet sporty drive properties. The key feature in terms of suspension development in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan is its innovative damping system. The first ever lift-related dampers ever to be fitted in a BMW model function continuously and progressively in relation to the respective spring travel. As such, the vibrations that occur when compensating for bumps on the road and during dynamic cornering can be neutralised especially gently and precisely – the perfect basis for striking a unique balance between sporty flair and ride comfort, which is very much a defining characteristic of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan.

Long known for its diversity, the track layout of the Nürburgring Nordschleife quickly transpired as the perfect setting for selective refinement of the interaction between the new damping technology and the other suspension components. "We're using the lift-related dampers as an active set-up element so as to create supreme driving properties in all conditions," explains Peter Langen, Head of Driving Dynamics. "With short spring travel, a sensitive damping response ensures comfortable vibration compensation. When the car passes over large bumps, the body movements are controlled by increased damping forces."

The lift-related dampers are a standard feature of the suspension technology in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. In a specific set-up they also form part of the M sports suspension, which additionally includes a lowering of 10 millimetres, 18-inch light alloy wheels and mixed tyres. This provides a boost to driving dynamics – something that can be experienced more intensely than ever before. The increased damping forces can be felt on the Nordschleife in particular: in the M sports suspension these are some 20 per cent higher than in the standard suspension. "This means the difference from the standard suspension is much more perceptible than before," says Peter Langen. "We've also made the M sports suspension much sportier, with more rigid bearings and stabilisers, harder springs and additional body struts."

In order to further reinforce the car's dynamic characteristics, the new M sports suspension is offered solely in combination with the Variable Sports Steering. In addition to the speed-related steering assistance Servotronic, this also provides a variable steering ratio. Variable Sports Steering has also been specially reconfigured for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. It already responds with much greater precision to slight steering movements, without seeming nervous in central position. The harmonious set-up of the steering system can be felt on long bends as well as when changing direction several times in rapid succession. A linear build-up of steering forces and optimised feedback increase precision when cornering in dynamic style.

The M sports differential is able to perfectly demonstrate its qualities on both the Nordschleife and the Grand Prix circuit. The electronically controlled locking function in the rear axle differential of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan is linked to Dynamic Stability Control DSC, ensuring needs-oriented limitation of rotation speed compensation between the rear wheels on the inside and on the outside of the bend. Depending on the situation on the road therefore, it is possible to pre-emptively influence both understeering and oversteering without brake intervention. The active differential lock distributes drive torque selectively between the rear wheels. In this way, it prevents slip on a wheel with reduced surface grip while ensuring that the engine power can be used unrestrictedly to generate sporty driving pleasure. "Unlike conventional mechanical locks, the regulated M sports differential can optimise so much more than just traction," says Peter Langen. "In addition to cornering dynamics, there is a particularly tangible increase in drive stability in the event of load changes, for example. This allows the new BMW 3 Series Sedan to be driven remarkably confidently and effortlessly even when travelling in dynamic style." For sporty driving, the active differential lock provides much higher levels of transverse acceleration as well as a perceptible boost in dynamic performance when accelerating out of bends. It also supports optimised stability, precision and cornering predictability in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan – without brake intervention.