Dial M for Performance

A couple of weeks back BMW announced they’d be introducing a new range of models called M Performance Automobiles. They’ll be placed in between regular BMW offerings and the fully fledged M models.

The benefit here of course is the ability to get an M-badged product without the full admission price. It’s also a very neat way for BMW to bring M Performance to models and drivetrains we wouldn’t normally consider for an M5, for example.

Suddenly that M550dx begins to make much more sense. Indeed, today, BMW has announced a series of M Performance diesels, which have already been previewed. We’ll bring you more detail later today.

So, how about another practical example of this M Performance line. BimmerFile reports of a rumoured M135i to sit between the very capable 135i and the awesome 1 Series M Coupé. It’s expected to have around 320hp, uprated sports suspension based on the 135i as well as enhanced steering and model-specific alloy wheels.

Sounds interesting, we think, and we look forward to seeing how the M Performance range pans out. We’ll be in line for much more when the Geneva Motor Show rolls around in March and BMW gives the M Performance Automobiles their official debut.

M genes as standard: the BMW M Performance Automobiles.

12.01.2012 Munich. In spring 2012, BMW M GmbH will unveil a new product range for drivers seeking a particularly sporty driving experience, yet who also value the familiar comfort and practicality of BMW models. The BMW M Performance Automobiles offer exclusive engine variants, noticeably enhanced agility and outstanding precision on the road, plus design laced with emotional appeal. The harmonious interplay of engine output, power transfer, chassis technology and aerodynamic balance provides a captivating showcase for the familiar M genes – in day-to-day driving and beyond. The BMW M Performance Automobiles will be presented to the global public for the first time at the International Geneva Motor Show 2012 which takes place from 8 – 18 March.

The BMW M Performance Automobiles represent a totally new model category none of its rivals can offer. Only the high-performance sports cars from BMW M GmbH provide a more convincing execution of an overall concept focused on inspirational driving dynamics. “We are targeting our efforts at customers looking for more emotionality and more performance, but who don’t want to forgo the everyday usability of their cars,” said Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President of BMW M GmbH. Nitschke announced plans for further additions to the new product line-up, referring to “a range including a wide variety of model series, as well as both petrol and diesel-engined variants”. The intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive would also play a significant role in the BMW M Performance Automobiles, he added.

2011 will go down as one of the most successful years for BMW M GmbH since the company was founded. In addition to the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, which marked BMW M GmbH’s first ever foray into the premium compact segment, last year also saw the successful introduction of the new BMW M5. The imminent arrival of the BMW M Performance Automobiles provides 2012 – which will also feature the world premiere of the new BMW M6, among others – with an early highlight.

“The BMW M Performance Automobiles benefit from the full expertise of BMW M GmbH,” explained Nitschke. The BMW Group subsidiary can call on decades of motor sport experience when it comes to translating outstanding engine power into excellent dynamics. This development expertise also imbues the BMW M Performance Automobiles with their distinctive character.

The models in the new product category follow in the tyre tracks of the BMW M535i, which was unveiled in 1980 and went on to capture the hearts of performance-minded customers with its extra power, precisely tuned chassis technology and subtly modified design. A fresh addition to the BMW 5 Series ranks, the Sedan remained a highly successful member of the line-up through two model generations and – up to 1987 – with the BMW M5 for company within the range. “Our aim with the BMW M Performance Automobiles is to continue this tradition,” confirmed Nitschke.