The chassis features a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle with bespoke kinematics and elastokinematics. The electrically assisted rack and pinion steering with M Servotronic and variable steering ratio has a rigid connection to the front axle subframe for optimum response. The Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and Integral Active Steering, which steers the rear wheels by up to 1.5 degrees, are fitted as standard. The M light-alloy wheels (20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear) reveal the standard M Compound brakes – or optional M Carbon carbon-ceramic brakes.
And can this be used in everyday life? Of course, and on the track, the Setup button provides direct access to the settings for the drive system, Drivelogic, suspension, steering, brake system and M xDrive, as well as the intensity of brake energy recovery. The Launch Control function is also available (except in 2WD mode of the M xDrive system).
With the DSC button M Dynamic mode is activated (it is possible to deactivate it completely) and another button allows the driver to select the M Mode (Road or Sport and even Track). In addition, the M Hybrid button allows the driver to choose between Hybrid and Electric mode (the combustion engine only acts in certain phases). The eControl mode varies the braking energy and M Drive Professional adds Dynamic and Dynamic Plus modes to maintain a constant high level or generate peaks of maximum power when driving on a circuit.
In addition to all these controls on the M-specific dashboard on the centre console, the cockpit includes a newly designed M leather steering wheel, the BMW Curved Display or the BMW Head-Up Display, with M-specific content. All as standard, such as the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with navigation and BMW Operating System 8.5. There is no lack of Merino leather upholstery as standard, four-zone climate control, heated front seats, M-specific ambient lighting, including welcome animation… but the panoramic glass sunroof is optional. As for the boot, it announces 500 liters (1,630 litres with seats folded down). If you don’t have enough space, you can fit a trailer (maximum load 2,000 kg).
There is no shortage of driving aids such as Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Return Assist, Evasion Assist, Attention Assist and Speed Limit Information. The optional Driving Assistant Professional adds Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function along with technology including Steering and Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Light Detection, Automatic Speed Limit Assist and Active Navigation. Parking Assistant, including Reversing Assist, is standard. The optional Parking Assistant Professional enables automatic parking and manoeuvring up to 200 metres from inside the vehicle or from outside using a mobile phone.
