BMW 4-Wheel Independent Suspension System

Every BMW model has fully independent suspension at all four wheels to ensure maximum stability and smoothness. Each wheel reacts independently to bumps; if the left rear wheel hits a bump or hole while cornering, the right one stays in contact with the road and stability is maintained.

BMW Active Roll Stabilization

An “active” suspension control system designed to reduce body-roll, or lean, while cornering. This improves the vehicle’s suspension geometry (the degree of wheel angle relative to vertical).

All Season Traction (AST)

All Season Traction, part of Dynamic Stability Control, provides better stability and control in slippery road conditions all year long - packed snow, ice, rain- or oil-slicked roads, and sandy or rough surfaces. The system continually processes data from the anti-lock braking wheelspeed sensors. Any time a rear "drive" wheel begins to lose traction, the system modifies the engine's electronic throttle and ignition timing to reduce torque. It also can act on each rear brake individually or simultaneously, as needed, to bring wheelspin under control. Dynamic Traction Control aids driving in deep snow or sand.

Alloy Wheels

High-performance cars demand high-performance wheels. BMW alloy wheels are strong, weight-efficient, and styled to complement each model?s character. For maximum rubber on the road, wheels are sized generously, with diameters of at least 16 inches. The generous wheel size provides plenty of space around the brakes for air cooling, as well as a solid "footprint" for excellent cornering and braking.

Electronic Damping Control

Electronic Damping Control (EDC) automatically adjusts the shock absorber settings to meet changes in vehicle speed, load, or road and driving conditions.The driver selects either "Sport" or "Comfort" from the iDrive "Settings" menu. EDC then modifies the shock absorbers to any degree, from the softest to the firmest setting.The result is exceptional riding comfort and fluid, responsive handling at all times. For example, the "Sport" setting increases firmness under all conditions for a sportier driving feel. With the "Comfort" setting,when sensors detect smooth roads, the shock absorbers are kept "soft" for optimum riding comfort. When the vehicle is rounding a sharp corner or curve, the shock absorbers are automatically and instantly adjusted to a firmer level. And when the vehicle encounters irregular road surfaces, such as bumps or a "washboard" surface, the shocks are instantly adjusted to the optimum level of firmness. This controls ride motions, helping to keep ride comfort at an acceptable level while maintaining road contact.

Hill Descent Control

When descending steep hills, it's sometimes difficult to maintain stability and keep speed in check by "riding the brake." When driving under 20 mph on steeper downhill grades, Hill Descent Control (HDC) can be activated by pressing a button on the console. HDC then gently applies the brakes, as necessary, to help reduce the speed to a nearly constant 3-6 mph, and helps allow the driver to stay in control. The driver may also apply the brakes more strongly, if desired, to stop the vehicle.

Optimum Weight Distribution

All current BMWs have their front wheels relatively far forward and their engine as far back as practical. BMW even positions the battery toward the rear of the vehicle to distribute its relatively heavy weight. The resulting weight distribution comes within 3.3% of the ideal 50/50 balance, far closer than most cars deliver. BMW fore-aft weight balance aids handling during braking, cornering and accelerating. Optimum balance for optimum performance.

Rear-Wheel Drive

BMW prides itself on resisting trends. One trend it has happily resisted is the move toward front-wheel drive. While front-wheel drive can yield more space for luggage and passengers, it is often at the expense of handling and performance. Except for all-wheel drive models, all BMWs are rear-wheel drive, ensuring supreme handling, grip and performance under any road conditions.

Rigid Body Structure

To achieve optimum structural dynamics, BMW body engineers tune the natural frequencies of the vehicle to be different in torsion and bending. This, along with static rigidity, ensures great resistance to vibration, even on sharp bumps or washboard roads. The ultra-rigid, dynamic chassis-body structure of BMWs means you experience stability, comfort, and minimum squeaks and rattles where it matters most: in the corner.

Speed-Rated Wide Radial Tires

Right down to the tires, BMWs are engineered to perform at all speeds. Every BMW is equipped with premium steel-belted road tires that are speed-rated according to the highest sustained speed the tire is designed to handle. Speed ratings vary by model, ranging from H-rated (130 mph) equipment on some 3 and 5 Series models to W- (167 mph) and Z-rated (over 149 mph) tires on some of BMW's sportiest models.

Subframe Construction

BMW goes to great lengths to reduce vibration in its vehicles. All current BMW front and rear suspension systems are carried primarily on subframes, which help isolate vibration and road noise from the body structure by virtue of precisely tuned rubber mounts, or bushings. This helps ensure the smooth and comfortable drive BMW drivers have come to expect from their vehicles.

xDrive, all-wheel-drive system

xDrive, all-wheel-drive system adds revolutionary intelligence to the BMW performance arsenal. Under the most challenging conditions, xDrive, all-wheel-drive system delivers variable power to individual wheels, providing tenacious grip and optimum traction. In all conditions, xDrive, all-wheel-drive system enhances driving dynamics to extract maximum exhilaration from tight curves and winding roads. The result is remarkably agile handling on any road, in any weather.

BMW Handling