A New Naming Strategy: From M340i to M350
The transition from BMW M340i to BMW M350 represents a deliberate evolution in BMW’s model nomenclature. Following the precedent set by the G45 X3 M50, BMW is officially retiring the lowercase 'i' suffix from its petrol-powered M Performance lineup, reserving the letter exclusively for fully electric BMW i vehicles. The transition to the M350 xDrive brings substantial upgrades across the board, backed by higher power outputs, sharper dynamics, and next-generation chassis systems as standard.
Engine & Powertrain: Six Cylinders, Hybrid Efficiency
Under the newly contoured bonnet lies BMW’s celebrated 3.0-litre twin-scroll turbocharged inline-six engine, now integrated with 48V mild-hybrid technology.
- Higher Power Output: Delivering 443 hp and 580 Nm of torque, the M350 xDrive delivers effortless acceleration and track-tested endurance.
- Instantaneous Response: The 48V electric motor assists during low-rev acceleration, smoothing out gear shifts and sharpening throttle response.
- Rapid Acceleration: Pin-you-to-your-seat performance achieves 0-62 mph in just 4.1 seconds before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
Headline Features | 'Drift Moment' & ' BMW Driving Stack '
The headline innovation for driver engagement in the M350 xDrive is its dual-personality drivetrain architecture:
'Drift Moment' Feature & Rear-Wheel Drive Integration
To offer an expanded set of driving dynamics, the M350 xDrive introduces BMW’s Drift Moment system, bringing drive characteristics previously exclusive to full-fledged BMW M models to the M Performance segment. Activated via the Central Display, the function utilises M-typical multi-disc clutch control in tandem with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) OFF to completely decouple the front axle, transferring 100% of engine output directly to the rear wheels for an unadulterated rear-wheel-drive mechanical setup.
BMW Driving Stack, Continuously Optimised.
Whilst there’s no “Heart of Joy” here as featured in BMW's electric Neue Klasse architecture (featured in the new BMW i3 and BMW iX3), the M350 xDrive has been designed with the same principles in mind, focusing on ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’. To achieve this, the M350 xDrive utilises the BMW Driving Stack, an integrated hardware and software system that synchronises its steering, braking, suspension, and stability controls to deliver a seamless, high-performance driving dynamic.
Standard Performance Features
The all-new BMW M350 xDrive comes equipped with an extensive suite of M Performance hardware as standard:
- Adaptive M Suspension: Continuously adjusts damping forces at each individual wheel for comfort during motorway cruising and rigidity in dynamic cornering.
- M Sport Differential: Electronically controlled limited-slip differential maximises traction.
- Variable Sport Steering: Provides direct, tactile feedback at speed whilst also reducing steering effort during low-speed parking manoeuvres.
- M Aerodynamics Package: Redesigned front apron, rear diffuser, and quad-look tailpipes engineered to optimise airflow and downforce.
