In the BMW 1 Series for the first time: the intelligent all-wheel drive system xDrive

Munich. A unique balance between sporty flair and ride comfort combined with unsurpassed efficiency - these are the characteristics which define the exceptional standing of the BMW 1 Series within the premium compact segment. In its second model generation, the BMW 1 Series demonstrates more than ever that hallmark brand qualities have become key success factors in this class of vehicle, too. Two body variants, a large engine portfolio, the BMW Lines and other attractive options create the perfect basis for meeting customers' individual wishes in terms of driving dynamics, efficiency, comfort and style.

Further additions to the model program follow in autumn 2012. The first versions of the compact model fitted with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive will be on show at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. In the new BMW 120d xDrive, the drive torque of a highly efficient 4-cylinder diesel engine is variably distributed between the front and rear axle. The BMW M135i xDrive makes use of the intelligent all-wheel drive system to transfer the power from its in-line 6-cylinder engine to the road with effortless supremacy. The xDrive model variants are being launched at the same time for both the new 5-door BMW 1 Series and the new 3-door BMW 1 Series.

Directionally stable, dynamic on bends: intelligent power transmission with BMW xDrive.

Standard power transmission to the rear wheels is the hallmark brand characteristic - unique in the compact segment - which largely accounts for the distinctive and outstandingly sporty driving properties of the new BMW 1 Series. In addition to this, BMW conveys thrilling driving pleasure by means of another aspect which can now also be experienced in a compact model of the brand for the first time. The intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive with its electronically controlled multidisc clutch ensures variable distribution of drive torque between the front and rear axle, always geared towards the needs of the moment. This means that the BMW 1 Series now also gains supremacy not just in tackling difficult weather and road conditions but also in terms of enhanced precision and agility when taking bends at speed. In normal situations on the road, the permanent all-wheel drive system directs 60% of the drive torque to the rear wheels and 40 per cent to the front wheels. Linked to the ride stability system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), xDrive adapts this distribution of power instantly and variably to the given situation. In this way, the anticipatory system ensures optimised driving stability and traction even before the driver notices that intervention is required. For example, by directing additional drive power to the rear wheels early on, it is possible to counter any tendency towards understeering. Rear-wheel break-out - otherwise referred to as oversteering - can also be eliminated by directing most of the engine power to the front wheels. The new BMW 1 Series features the latest version of BMW xDrive with a power divider characterised by reduced weight and optimised efficiency, thereby enhancing efficiency in the vehicles in which it is installed.

xDrive is available in two model variants of both the 5-door BMW 1 Series and the 3-door BMW 1 Series. In the BMW 120d xDrive it distributes the power of a 135 kW/184 bhp 4-cylinder diesel engine between the front and rear axle. This interaction enables acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and a maximum speed of 225 km/h. The average fuel consumption of the BMW 120d xDrive is 4.7 to 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres, while the CO2 figure is between 123 and 126 grams per kilometre (figures based on EU test cycle, dependent on tyre format selected.

The BMW M135i xDrive: maximum agility with unparalleled traction.

The all-wheel drive system is especially fascinating in combination with the first BMW M Performance automobile of the compact segment. The interplay between xDrive and the 235 kW/320 bhp in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW M135i xDrive makes for an outstandingly high level of dynamic performance, traction and driving stability. The BMW M135i xDrive dashes from rest to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, going on to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. The BMW M135i xDrive combines impressive sporty flair and supremacy with an average fuel consumption on the EU test cycle of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres and a CO2 emissions level of 182 grams per kilometre.

The BMW M135i xDrive is fitted as standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Unique in the compact segment, this automatic transmission supports sporty acceleration manoeuvres with its highly dynamic gear-shifting as well as promoting smooth power transmission due to its high degree of efficiency. It is available as an optional alternative to the standard 6-speed manual transmission in all other model variants except for the BMW 114d, the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition, the BMW 120d xDrive and the BMW 114i.

Like the BMW M135i, the BMW M135i xDrive also has a special aerodynamically optimised exterior design which visually conveys the vehicle's forward thrust and fascinatingly agile handling properties at first sight. The interior design of the BMW M Performance automobile also authentically expresses its sports car characteristics. What is more, the standard fittings of the BMW M135i xDrive include suspension technology adapted to the vehicle's high performance with characteristic M precision, 18-inch M light alloy wheels in double spoke design with mixed tyres and an M Sports brake system.

For further questions please contact:

Kai Lichte, Product Communications BMW Automobiles

Phone: +49-89-382-51240, Fax: +49-89-382-20626

Ralph Huber, Head of Product Communications BMW Automobiles

Phone: +49-89-382-68778, Fax: +49-89-382-20626

E-Mail: presse@bmw.de

Internet: www.press.bmwgroup.de

 The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles  and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 29 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2011, the BMW Group sold about 1.67 million cars and more than 113,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2011 was euro 7.38 billion on revenues amounting to euro 68.82 billion. At 31 December 2011, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built 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. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last eight years.

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