BMW announces update measures for summer 2019

BMW has announced a whole slew of revisions for several models in its line-up, which either involve the list of available equipment or powertrains, as part of the company’s update measures for summer 2019.

Starting with the G20 3 Series, three new all-wheel drive powertrains will join the range that currently features the M340i xDrive and 330e. They include the 320i xDrive (184 PS or 181 hp), 330i xDrive (258 PS or 255 hp) and 330d xDrive (265 PS or 261 hp). An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard for these variants.

Also, from July this year, the M Sport and Adaptive M suspension systems will be available as an option for non-M Sport models, with both setups combined with Variable Sport Steering (variable ratio steering).

The G30 5 Series will also receive a new engine for the M550i xDrive, which is essentially the same one found on the current M850i. The 4.4 litre twin-turbo V8 makes 530 PS (523 hp) and 750 Nm of torque, with an eight-speed automatic paired to it.

BMW has yet to provide new performance figures resulting from the use of the more powerful V8. It did note that BMW Laserlight (with BMW Selective Beam) will be added to the list of options for both the M550i xDrive and its diesel sibling, the M550d xDrive.

Meanwhile, the 530e will benefit from the latest-generation high-voltage battery, which is claimed to provide a longer all-electric operating range, along with an all-wheel drive version.

Moving on to the 8 Series, both the Coupe and Convertible models can now be ordered in 840i and 840i xDrive guises. These variants come with a B58 3.0 litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine that outputs 340 PS (335 hp) and 450 Nm – this engine is also used in the 540i.

Another coupe and convertible pairing, the M4, also sees are minor update, with the M Competition package now being a standard fitment. The package consists of Adaptive M suspension, an extra-sporty configuration for the Dynamic Stability Control system, Active M Differential, M Sport exhaust system, 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line trim and M seats.

Enthusiasts will also be glad to know that the entry-level Z4 variant, the sDrive20i, will be available with a six-speed manual transmission. Given the Z4’s association to the A90 Toyota GR Supra, will we see a manual version of the reborn Japanese sports car soon?

Turning our attention to BMW’s range of SUVs, the F39 X2 will now come with adaptive LED headlamps as standard from July. The options list also includes five new light-alloy wheels in 18- and 19-inch sizes, two new upholstery variants, and the M Sport braking system from the X2 M35i.

The Navigation option for the X2 will also include an 8.8-inch Control Display with touchscreen functionality, replacing the previous 6.5-inch version. Should the Navigation Plus option be specified, a 10.25-inch display will be fitted instead.

Not a lot new for the G01 X3 and G02 X4, as the M Sport models – X3 M40i, X3 M40d, X4 M40i and X4 M40d – can be optioned with distinctive M Sport seats. A new M Sport Individual version will also be available from August this year boasting unique touches from BMW Individual.

The G05 X5 will also receive an expanded list of powertrains that includes the X5 xDrive25d, which packs a B47 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel with 231 PS (228 hp) and 450 Nm. Aside from the new entry-level engine, the X5 also gains a wider choice of option – the same can be said of the larger G07 X7 as well.

Lastly, the BMW Drive Recorder is available option available for customers, and can be ordered in conjunction with Parking Assistant Plus. The digital video recorder can be ordered for the 3 Series, 7 Series, 8 Series, X5 and X7.