BMW will reveal a new performance division to bridge the gap between its standard models and M-cars. Among the models earmarked for this exciting development are all-wheel drive variants and a powerful new tri-turbo diesel.
The head of BMW’s M division, Friedrich Nitschke, has confirmed that the company will formally introduce the BMW M Performance Automobiles division to the public at the upcoming Geneva Motor show.
Performing a function similar to that of Audi’s S-badged line-up, BMW M Performance Automobiles will form a bridge between the company’s standard models and the fire-breathing M-badged offerings. According to Nitschke, it’s a move that harks back to such models as the M535i, which sat alongside the M5 in the 1980s.
“We are targeting our efforts at customers looking for more emotionality [sic] and performance, but who don’t want to lose the everyday usability of their cars,” added Nitschke.
Initial reports suggest that all-wheel drive will play a significant role in the new division’s line-up and that a tri-turbo diesel is a strong possibility. Last year, BMW filed a series of patents for tri-turbo technology with a view of adopting such a system on the six-cylinder engine potentially lined up for the next-generation M3. The patent showed a twin-turbo set-up augmented by a compact electric turbocharger
Two models, an M5 and M6 wearing M50d xDrive monikers, will kick off the new division’s offerings. Both models are reportedly powered by a 3,0-litre tri-turbo diesel engine developing 280 kW and 740 N.m
More will be revealed at the Geneva Motor show, which takes place March 8-18.