Often times on the Autohaus BMW blog we confirm various musings we've heard circulating from the BMW rumor mill. Well, today, we're actually here to put one particular report to rest.
Enthusiasts who stay abreast with BMW news may have
heard the speculative story that the Bavarian automaker would be adding
all-wheel drive to its fierce new BMW M models; particularly,
the BMW M5. Well, we're here to tell you that that rumor is just not true.
How do we know?
Well, the head of the M Division, Friedrich Nitshke has come forward saying "Our philosophy in regards to steering feel and precision is that rear-wheel drive is the best solution. xDrive brings an 80-90kg weight penalty and the M differential is the industry's best rear-drive set-up."1
In other words, the weight increase that results from adding AWD would have a negative effect on performance; and since that's the backbone of sporty M autos, BMW is wisely not willing to take that risk. Nitischke also confirms that BMW M models will continue to offer manual transmissions just as long as customer demand remains as high as it is. In reality, it would be more efficient and cost-effective to offer solely dual-clutch automated manual; so BMW is simply keeping manual to appease customers. Pretty cool!
What's next up for the BMW M lineup? Right now the M3 sedan is on the horizon with more to come. To learn more, we invite you to stay tuned. And, if you're presently in the market for a new BMW model, feel free to swing by Autohaus BMW located at 3015 S. Hanley Rd. Saint Louis, MO 63143-3613, any time.
Source: 1 http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/industry/bmw-m-remains-committed-rear-wheel-drive