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BMW’s previewed the first products in its new M Performance Automobiles range, set to debut (officially) at the Geneva auto show.
Based on current BMW models, the M Performance cars, however, place greater emphasis on performance and have the benefit of BMW’s M-division’s influence in the fine-tuning of their powertrain, chassis and design interplay.
At launch, the sub-brand includes four models: M550d xDrive Sedan, M550d xDrive Touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d. The M550d xDrive Sedan and M550d xDrive Touring will not be offered in South Africa, BMW SA said. The M Performance range will be available in South Africa from June, 2012.
BESPOKE ENGINE
The launch of the M Performance range also signals the world premiere of a specially-developed straight-six diesel engine using three turbochargers, common-rail direct injection and maximum boost of 2.2 bar.
The 3.0-litre powerplant develops 280kW from 4000 to 4400 rpm and 740Nm of torque from 2000 to 3000 rpm and is mated to BMW’s eight-speed Sports automatic transmission as standard on all M Performance models. As expected, Efficient Dynamics technology including auto start-stop and Eco Pro mode is standard.
The M division has taken care of the suspension, engine and transmission mountings, springs and dampers and the optional chassis control systems to ensure added purpose.
M TRINKETS
Design modifications are in the style of the M package and include exterior mirrors and air intake bars with grey metallic paintwork, trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes, 19” light alloy wheels and additional Individual options.
Inside the cabin, the “M” influence extends to the Alcantara and Nappa leather sports seats, leather covered steering wheel and BMW Individual roof liner, amongst others.
A range of comfort and convenience features will be standard, too, including adaptive LED headlights, active cruise control with stop and go function, night vision with pedestrian recognition and BMW Connected Drive.
Based on current BMW models, the M Performance cars, however, place greater emphasis on performance and have the benefit of BMW’s M-division’s influence in the fine-tuning of their powertrain, chassis and design interplay.
At launch, the sub-brand includes four models: M550d xDrive Sedan, M550d xDrive Touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d. The M550d xDrive Sedan and M550d xDrive Touring will not be offered in South Africa, BMW SA said. The M Performance range will be available in South Africa from June, 2012.
BESPOKE ENGINE
The launch of the M Performance range also signals the world premiere of a specially-developed straight-six diesel engine using three turbochargers, common-rail direct injection and maximum boost of 2.2 bar.
The 3.0-litre powerplant develops 280kW from 4000 to 4400 rpm and 740Nm of torque from 2000 to 3000 rpm and is mated to BMW’s eight-speed Sports automatic transmission as standard on all M Performance models. As expected, Efficient Dynamics technology including auto start-stop and Eco Pro mode is standard.
COMING TO SA: The X6 M50d is one of two models that will be made available to keen South African fans.
M TRINKETS
Design modifications are in the style of the M package and include exterior mirrors and air intake bars with grey metallic paintwork, trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes, 19” light alloy wheels and additional Individual options.
Inside the cabin, the “M” influence extends to the Alcantara and Nappa leather sports seats, leather covered steering wheel and BMW Individual roof liner, amongst others.
A range of comfort and convenience features will be standard, too, including adaptive LED headlights, active cruise control with stop and go function, night vision with pedestrian recognition and BMW Connected Drive.
