BMW M3 and M4: M xDrive

The epitome of racing feeling in everyday traffic starts a new round. 35 years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW M GmbH presents the latest generation of its high-performance automobiles in the premium mid-size segment. Time to introduce the two new vehicles. In the #M3M4explained series, the developers have the floor.

Peter loves maximum traction: In Episode 20, the Head of Driving Dynamics Systems BMW M3 / M4 talks about the optional BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive system in the new M vehicles. In the video, he introduces the new innovative drive system and explains elaborate technology.

BMW M3 Competition Sedan [1] :

Fuel consumption combined in l/100 km 9.9

CO2 emissions combined in g/km 224

CO2 class G

BMW M4 Competition Coupé [1] :

Fuel consumption combined in l/100 km 9.9

CO2 emissions combined in g/km 223

CO2 class G

EPISODE 20: BMW M3 AND M4 EXPLAINED – xDrive.

Start Video

BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.

What is the default torque distribution between the front and rear axle in 4WD and 4WD Sport?

Basically, there is no fixed torque split between front axle and rear axle, with torque being continuously shifted between front and rear - except for the 2WD mode obviously ;)
In general, the main distribution is rear wheel biased all the time. However, in 4WD Sport the system allows for more slip on the rear wheels before sending more power to the front axle.

What is the weight of the M3 and M4 with M xDrive?

The DIN weight for the M3 Competition with M xDrive is 1,780kg and the M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive weighs 1,775kg.

What is the front and rear weight distribution percentage for the M4?

BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive: 53.9% front / 46.1% rear.

Why better traction must always mean more understeer?

With regards to the front wheels: Once a longitudinal power is transmitted with the front wheels there is less capacity for lateral forces. This results in understeer - under braking as well as when accelerating. So, that is typical tyre behaviour and physics.

In 4WD Sport is the power fixed between both axles?

No, torque split is a fully variable distribution at all times in 4WD and 4WD Sport mode. In comparison, 4WD Sport mode allows for more rear wheel slip than 4WD mode before sending more power to the front wheels.
To improve steering behaviour and cornering power of the front axle, we especially lower the front axle torque while cornering.

Peter what do you mean "Drive to the front wheels will be switched off for efficiency"?

The M xDrive can dial in fully variable torque split between front axle and rear axle. It is possible to manually switch of the front axle --> 2WD mode. Based on the given driving conditions, e.g. constant highway cruising, the system will also automatically decouple the front axle in 4WD and 4WD Sport mode to operate more efficiently.

Will there be an option for manual transmission in AWD cars?

No, it won't.

Does the camber of the wheels for the M3/M4 with M xDrive remain the same compared to RWD?

RWD models have a front axle camber of -1°40'. AWD models have a front axle camber of -1°30'. Rear axle camber is -1°50' for all models.

Is the front differential equipped with lock like the rear end is?

The front differential is an open differential without an integrated mechanical lock.

What type of clutch is used for the coupling of the front drivetrain?

That is a multi-clutch type coupling.

Is the clutch pack designed to slip in order to have different speeds at the front and rear?

Yes, it is.

When the clutch pack is fully engaged, how does it allow for front wheels to spin at different speeds?

When the driving situation allows for equal wheel speed at all wheels, the clutch can be fully engaged. At conditions where different individual wheel speeds are required the clutch will be partially open.

What is the reaction time of the system engaging/disengaging the AWD?

Normally, just the torque transfer to the front axle is varied, its variation takes less than 150ms. Returning from efficiency mode shift time is less than 400ms.

Why use a chain in the transfer case instead of pinion gears?

A chain drive produces less noise and drag.

Main difference between AWD in the M340i and in the M3 (beside the switch off option)?

Compared to the M340i and M440i xDrive models, there is more rear bias with the BMW M3 and M4 models with M xDrive. Additionally, the M3 and M4 models feature the integrated torque control system for faster adjustments and the transfer case / clutch pack is a beefed up version for more driving dynamics. Another difference are of course the three modes 4WD, 4WD Sport, 2WD.

So even in 4WD, the torque is sent to the front only when needed? Or there is always some torque going?

The front axle torque split can go as low as 0% even in 4WD or 4WD Sport mode depending on the actual driving situation - think of steady highway cruising as an example.

Does the horsepower output change between 4WD and 2WD modes?

No, it is always the same power that is being sent to the wheels - no matter if 4WD, 4WD Sport or 2WD.

Does AWD set better lap times?

That completely depends on the particular track and the environmental conditions.

^[1]Performance data of petrol engines apply to vehicles using RON 98 fuel. Fuel consumption data apply to vehicles using reference fuels in accordance with EU Regulation 715/2007. Unleaded RON 91 and higher with a maximum ethanol content of 10% (E10) may also be used. BMW recommends RON 95 fuel. For high-performance automobiles, BMW recommends RON 98 fuel.

Range depends on various factors, in particular: individual driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, heating/air conditioning, pre-conditioning.

For plug-in hybrid: Electric drive depending on battery charging level.

For plug-in hybrid: At temperatures below freezing, the fully electric drive system is only available after a few kilometres of driving, once the battery has heated to operational temperature.

For plug-in hybrid: Composed of combustion engine drive and electric drive. Electric drive depending on battery charging level.

For models with Boost function: Temporary uprating <10 seconds in excess of specified nominal value.

The models illustrated include optional equipment. Due to regular software updates, screen designs in the communication may differ from the actual screen design in your car.

All vehicles, equipment, combination possibilities and varieties shown here are examples and can differ in your country. In no way do they constitute a binding offer by the BMW M GmbH. Visit your local BMW website or see your authorised BMW M Retailer for accurate details on the offers in your country.

Official data for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, power consumption and electric range was determined in accordance with the prescribed measuring procedure and corresponds to European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the applicable version. For ranges, data determined as per WLTP takes into account any optional equipment (available on the German market in this case). For vehicles that have been newly type approved since 1 January 2021, only the official data according to WLTP exists. For more information about NEDC and WLTP measuring procedures visit www.bmw.com/wltp

EPISODE 20: BMW M3 & M4 EXPLAINED.

The BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive system in the new BMW M3 and M4.

EPISODE 20: BMW M3 AND M4 EXPLAINED – xDrive.

BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.

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The BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive system in the new BMW M3 and M4.

EPISODE 20: BMW M3 AND M4 EXPLAINED – xDrive.

BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.

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