I knew that the xDrive versions would come as soon as BMW introduced the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe with rear-wheel drive in September 2020. I’m finally here and if you don’t mind losing the stick change, because AWD is auto-reserved – only the competition, they are considerably faster than their RWD counterparts specified in the competition. Before delving into all the juicy numbers, keep in mind that these are the first M3 and M4 models to offer AWD.
Available exclusively with an eight-speed torque converter developed by ZF, the M3 Competition xDrive and M4 Competition xDrive share the 3.0-liter in-line twin-turbo RWD Competition. Power remains the same at 503 hp and a torque of 650 Newton-meters, but the time of 0-60 mph was eliminated from 0.4 seconds to just 3.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km / h, but the optional M Performance package lowers the limiter to 290 km / h.
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Some people have expressed concern that the M cars have gained quite a lot of weight with the latest generation, so it is worth noting that the sedan tilts the scale to a weight of 1,999 kilograms (3,990 pounds) for the US model. It goes without saying that the hardware ordered by xDrive added fat, but BMW is confident that the benefits outweigh the extra volume.
How? In addition to the faster acceleration, the M3 and M4 Competition models equipped with AWD have the total available torque “to a greater extent both during acceleration and dynamic driving”. The rear-facing xDrive automatically channels torque between the two axles through an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. There is also an Active M differential for distributing torque to the rear wheels.
During normal driving, with the default 4WD setting enabled, torque is distributed on the rear axle and sent to the front wheels only when additional traction is needed. Switching to 4WD Sport will send more torque to the rear axle, while 2WD allows for a pure rear-wheel drive experience on a larger M5, provided stability control is disabled.
In terms of the delicate price issue, the 2022 BMW M3 Competition xDrive starts at $ 76,900, making it $ 4,100 more expensive than the equivalent RWD model. Go for the M4 Competition xDrive, and the price increase is the same, which means you’ll have to spend $ 78,800. The price excludes destination and handling fees of 995 USD.
BMW will have the dynamic duo in force in the United States in August. The current M3 / M4 range will increase even more with the addition of an M4 Convertible and a first M3 Touring, but unfortunately it will not come to the US. A hotter M4, rumored to bring back the pseudonym “CSL”, was recently spied on, so it’s safe to say that there are interesting times ahead if you’re a fan of these performance cars.