BMW Thailand Bring the media to experience driving to test the power of all drivetrains. Both powerful combustion engines, M series cars and electric vehicles will be held on the circuit during 22 – 23 August 2023
at Chang International Circuit, Buriram.
Buriram. BMW Thailand recently took media representatives to experience a driving test on all powertrains – powerful combustion engines in the M family that stand out for their high-performance power in a sporty, exciting style, equipped with racing-inspired technology. The M family includes the BMW M2, which delivers a dynamic and responsive ride with effortless handling even in the most extreme driving conditions; the ultimate in performance, like the BMW X4 M Competition, which adds even more power with the Competition package and six-cylinder petrol engine; the new BMW M340i xDrive, with precise control systems and the latest driving technologies taking driving to a new level of dynamism with its high-performance engine.
In addition, the reporters also experienced the excitement of the power of electric cars on the track – plug-in hybrid models like the BMW 330e M Sport, a popular sports sedan with a gasoline engine, TwinPower Turbo technology and a plug-in hybrid system; and 100% electric vehicles from the BMW ‘i’ family, which allowed the test-drivers to explore the superior driving experience in a variety of models, such as the BMW iX xDrive40 Sport, a robust SAV characterized by its distinctive exterior design featuring simplicity and a wider range of driver assistance systems and innovations beyond any other BMW model. The BMW iX3 M Sport, with design that reflects sustainability, stands out from other electric vehicles with its ability to maintain torque – even at high revs. The new BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport, a four-door Gran Coupé, was highlighted with its spacious interior and a variety of features that enable more comfort on a long drive.
The driving challenge was held at Chang International Circuit in Buriram province. It was organised to test the performance of the cars’ handling and cornering (Handling), practice the use of the Driving Stability Control System (DSC), and test the driving performance in various aspects such as the Ideal Line (High Speed) – driving through a designated route under the best time, Ideal Line (Fast Corner) – high-speed cornering, controlling the car while drifting, and testing the power of the engine on the racetrack. In addition, the challenge also included testing the agility of the xDrive system in Gymkhana Dirt driving, adding to the participants’ excitement with an off-road driving test.
The all-new BMW M2
Price: THB 6,499,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard
package covering 3 years or 60,000 km)
The all-new BMW M2 is setting fresh benchmarks in the compact high-performance sports car segment,
adding marked refinement to its predecessor. Flawlessly combining compact dimensions,
powertrain, and chassis technology, the vehicle provides a captivatingly agile and responsive driving experience that is effortlessly controllable even when the driver pushes the car to its limits. The all-new BMW M2’s sporty and athletic look originates from its exceptionally powerful proportions and distinctive M design characteristics. It features a 110-millimetre shorter wheelbase and the exterior design measures 214 millimetres
shorter than the BMW M4 Coupé models.The large, frameless BMW kidney grille with its horizontal bars combines with a three-section lower air intake with almost rectangular shapes to give the front end a familiar M look.
The model has been designed around technical requirements in terms of cooling air supply and aerodynamic balance. The rear end of the all-new BMW M2 also gives the eye-catching look with the spoiler lip on the boot lid, the vertically arranged reflectors, the rear apron’s diffuser insert,
and the two pairs of exhaust tailpipes positioned a long way on outer edges.
At the core of this all-new BMW M2 lies an incredibly powerful 6-cylinder in-line petrol engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology, now boasts an aggressive 338 kW/ 460 hp at 6,250 rpm. It also provides engine torque of 550 Nm at 2,650 – 5,870 rpm. This powerhouse sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.1 seconds with the top speed of 250 km/h. The dynamic performance is also embodied by its rear-wheel drive via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Boasting extremely sporty gear shifts, a direct engine connection, and the ability to execute multiple downshifts to the lowest gear, this
transmission serves as the ideal foundation for captivating, instantaneous acceleration. The M Drive Professional is another element that makes driving even more exciting, while the M Sport Differential helps in optimising traction and driving stability,
whether changing lanes or accelerating out of a bend, taking bends at high speeds, or on different road surfaces. Moreover, the Adaptive M Suspension enables drivers to choose freely between comfortable or sporty driving styles.
The exterior features M High-gloss Shadowline and M Lights Shadowline and boasts a bold and dynamic appearance with Adaptive LED Headlights, High-beam Assistant, M Compound Brake in Red High-Gloss, and M Carbon Roof. The sporty interior is equipped with ambient light, M Headliner Anthracite and BMW Individual instrument panel finished in leather. The cabin is even more distinguished with M Interior Trim Finishers in ‘Carbon Fibre’, M leather steering wheel, M seat belts, M Sport seats, electrically adjustable seat with memory, and illuminated M Highlighters.
BMW Live Cockpit Professional brings a new modern driver display that’s fully digital with Smartphone integration. Through the advanced BMW Curved Display, the interface’s modern design offers the latest connectivity options for the infotainment system via 14.9-inch control display and the 12.3-inch information display. In addition, BMW ConnectedDrive and BMW Connected Package Professional offer a range of advanced features and services that make driving more convenient, efficient, and enjoyable. The Harman Kardon Surround Sound provides a high-quality, immersive, and customisable audio experience that can enhance the driving experience.
Driving safety is taken to the next level with a suite of standard features that includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Park Distance Control (PDC), Crash sensor, Teleservices and Intelligent Emergency Call.
The all-new BMW M2 is available in five paintwork colours: Zandvoort Blue Solid, Alpine White Solid, Toronto Red Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic. Customers can choose upholstery options in either Vernasca leather which comes in Black/Exclusive Highlight, Black/Contrast Stitching Blue, and Cognac Decor Stitching, or Alcantara/Sensatec Combination leather in Black/Contrast Stitching Blue. Moreover, the model will be available for booking online via https://shop.bmw.co.th which allows customers to configure the car of their preference – from paintwork and upholstery to choices of wheels which include M light alloy wheel in Bicolour 930 M Double Spoke style and M light alloy wheel in Jet Black 930 M Double Spoke style.
The new BMW M340i xDrive
Price: THB 4,199,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard Package covering 3 years/60,000 km maintenance)
BMW 330e M SportPrice: THB 2,999,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard maintenance package covering 3 years or 60,000 km)
The new BMW 3 Series features design refresh and technological enhancements of both interior and exterior. With its elegantly sporty design and agile handling, the new BMW 3 Series has set a brand-new benchmark for driving pleasure in the premium mid-size segment from day one.
Targeted updates to the front and rear-end design shine an even brighter spotlight than ever on the sporting ability of the vehicles. The redesigned headlights and kidney grille also give the car strong visual presence. The Adaptive LED headlights are now much slimmer and daytime driving lights arranged in an inverted L shape to create a harmonious and modern look. The new BMW 3 Series already has a boldly sporty appearance – a visual quality further emphasised by the now standard M High-gloss Shadowline trim. Added to this, the BMW 330e M Sport and the BMW M340i xDrive now come equipped with BMW Individual Lights Shadowline.
This cutting-edge cockpit design has progressive digitalisation at its heart and significantly reduces buttons and controls in favour of touch and voice control. A 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a 14.9-inch control display merge together into the BMW Curved Display to provide fully digital presentation with high-resolution unit. Also, the display’s software has been upgraded to BMW Operating System 8. All variants of the new BMW 3 Series now come with an eight-speed Sport Steptronic transmission with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel and a newly designed selector lever as standard.
The BMW 330e M Sport is powered by a plug-in hybrid petrol engine with TwinPower Turbo, generating a system output of 292 hp and 420 Nm of torque and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. The BMW M340i xDrive comes with a powerful 6-cylinder inline petrol engine with M TwinPower Turbo that produces a maximum power of 387 hp and a maximum torque of 500 Nm at 1,900 – 5,000 rpm, accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds. BMW 330e M Sport and BMW M340i xDrive also offer a top speed of 230 and 250 km/h respectively.
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) come as standard to ensure excellent control and driving experience. Brake Assist, Crash Sensor, Side Impact Protection, and Runflat Indicator are among the other features available. Acoustic Protection for Pedestrians, on the other hand, is exclusively available on the BMW 330e M Sport. The driver and passengers also benefit from enhanced options for intuitive operation and innovative digital services brought by the inclusion of BMW Live Cockpit Professional, Control Display’s touchscreen, and voice control. The BMW ConnectedDrive and Harman Kardon surround sound system also offer even more satisfying in-car experience in the 330e M Sport and M340i xDrive.
The new BMW X4 M Competition Price: THB 8,799,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard Package covering 3 years/60,000 km maintenance)
Motorists of a sportier persuasion, meanwhile, can look forward to getting acquainted with the new BMW X4 M Competition. With the Competition package comes an upgraded variant of the supremely powerful 2,993cc M TwinPower Turbo petrol straight-six, which now generates as high as 375 kW / 510 hp of peak power for a stunning 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 4.0 seconds. This enhanced performance is made possible by the integration of advances found in the BMW M3 and M4 – such as a forged lightweight crankshaft that improves torque transmission and revving power and a racetrack-proven cooling system.
The M xDrive all-wheel drive system also contributes to the high agility of the BMW X4 M Competition, combining the traction benefits of power transmission to all four wheels with the proven dynamic qualities of classic rear-wheel drive. The electronically controlled M xDrive – which is networked with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – only directs part of the drive torque to the front axle when the rear wheels reach the limits of their power transmission capabilities. Power is otherwise transmitted to the rear wheels via an 8‑speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, while the BMW M Compound Brake with high-gloss black calipers provide high-performance stopping power.
The new BMW X4 M Competition looks as sporty as it performs
with the characteristic coupé-inspired silhouette – now complemented with an enlarged BMW kidney grille that is further decked out with the BMW Individual High-Gloss Shadow Line with Extended Contents. The adaptive LED headlights, now in a flatter shape, bears an extra touch of sportiness with the blacked-out look of BMW M Light Shadow Line. On the back, the new rear apron of the BMW X4 M Competition features a wide, offset insert in the shape of an anvil, while two pairs of tailpipes in black chrome flank the diffuser. The black theme also extends to the 21-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-spoke style in bicolour.
The BMW X4 M Competition feature M sports seats with M seatbelts surrounded by Carbon Fibre interior trim finishers and topped off with the panorama glass roof. In addition to the full suite of smart features from BMW Live Cockpit Professional, the new X4 M Competition also comes with the new Driving Assistant
Professional system – which includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. Many of the vehicle’s intelligent systems will also be ready in the palm of your hands even from a distance with the inclusion of the BMW Display Key.
The new BMW iX xDrive40 Sport
Price: THB 5,299,000 (VAT incl. with with 4-year unlimited mileage BSI Standard Package)
The new BMW iX xDrive40 Sport harnesses the latest innovations in the fields of electrification, automated driving, and connectivity to deliver a mobility experience which puts people more than ever at its heart. It is equipped with efficient BMW eDrive technology and fully electric all-wheel drive which work together to achieve an exceptional range and deliver powerful acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The new BMW iX xDrive40 Sport has a combined output of 240 kW/326 hp. The fifth-generation BMW eDrive – paired to the very latest battery cell technology – results in WLTP-calculated ranges from 372 to 425 kilometres and 420 kilometres according to NEDC cycle and peak torque at 630 Nm. The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX xDrive40 Sport contains a high voltage battery energy content of 76.6 kWh. Maximum charging power DC is 150 kW. This allows the battery’s state of charge to be increased from 0 to 80 per cent in 34 minutes.
The standard chassis technology for the BMW iX xDrive40 Sport comprises a double wishbone front axle, five-link rear axle, lift-related dampers and an electric steering system with Servotronic function and a variable ratio along with 22-inch aerodynamic wheels in bicolour 3D polished buff with noise-reduced tyres, which have a layer of foam on their inner surface to improve acoustic comfort.
The pioneering character of the new BMW iX xDrive40 Sport also clearly shines through in its exterior design. The clearly structured, reduced design language, the body’s imposing styling with muscular SAV proportions
and the precisely crafted details create an aura of progressive luxury.
The exterior design highlights of the new BMW iX xDrive40 Sport also include the slimmest headlight units ever to feature on a series-produced model from BMW,
the flush-fitted door openers (operated at the press of a button), the frameless side windows, the tailgate – which has no separation joints and extends across the whole of the rear – and the likewise extremely slim rear lights. Vast amounts of room and newly developed seats with integral head restraints set the tone for the luxurious ambience. Besides the BMW Curved Display, the hexagonal steering wheel and frameless projector integration for the Head-Up Display further add to the focused driving experience. Headliner anthracite and interior application clear & bold also give the cabin more splendid look. The 655-Watt Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 18 speakers promises the ultimate sound experience.
promises the ultimate sound experience.
A new generation of sensors,
a new software stack and a powerful computing platform provide the basis for exceptional
intelligence. These include 5 cameras, 5 radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors working together to detect surrounding around the vehicle. The Steering and Lane Control Assistant has been significantly expanded while the Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function offers enhanced situational distance adjustment. Also, equipped in the new BMW
iX xDrive40 Sport is the Parking Assistant Plus including Surround View Camera and Remote 3D View. BMW Live Cockpit Professional and the BMW Natural Interaction also comes as standard. The new BMW iX xDrive40 Sport’s safety systems are equipped to keep passengers and others around the car as safe as possible including Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Crash sensor, Active Protection, Attentiveness Assistant, Passive protection for pedestrians, Teleservices and Intelligent Emergency Call.
The model comes with an impressive array of paintwork options, including Aventurin Red, Black Sapphire, Mineral White,
Storm Bay, Phytonic Blue, and Blue Ridge Mountain.
The BMW iX3 M Sport
Price: THB 3,699,000 (VAT incl. with 4-year unlimited mileage BSI Standard Package)
The new BMW iX3 M Sport owes its forward-looking character to the unique combination of its electric motor’s efficiency,
the optimised energy density of its high-voltage battery and its high charging capacity. The latest versions of the electric motor, power electronics,
charging technology and high-voltage battery have enabled clear progress in the areas of performance characteristics, electric power consumption and range. Similar to the iX,
the electric motor, transmission and power electronics in the iX3 are now arranged in a single housing, giving extra boost to the power density and efficiency. The new drive system unit generates a maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp and peak torque of 400 Nm which, unlike with many other electric motors, is sustained at high revs. The new BMW iX3 M Sport sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h. Sending power to the rear wheels creates a classic BMW driving experience combined with supreme traction – thanks to ARB – and outstanding efficiency. The storage capacity of the battery, relative to the installation space required and its weight, has been substantially increased. A gross energy content of 80 kWh – of which 74 kWh is utilised – and the high efficiency of the drive systems allow the new BMW iX3 to offer a range of up to 460 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle and up to 470 kilometres in the NEDC test cycle.
An innovative charging unit sends power to both the 400V battery and the 12V on-board power supply.
When using alternating current terminals, it enables both single-phase and three-phase charging at up to
11 kW. Plugging the vehicle into a direct current fast-charging station facilitates charging outputs of up to 150 kW.
The high-voltage battery in the new BMW iX3 can therefore be charged from 0 to 80 per cent of its full capacity in 34 minutes.
Adaptive recuperation is also geared to enhance efficiency and driving comfort during a journey. The intensity of the Brake Energy Regeneration is adapted to the road situation described by data from the navigation system and the driver assistance system sensors. As an alternative to adaptive recuperation, in driving position D the driver can choose a high, medium or low Brake Energy Regeneration setting. Also, using the selector lever in the centre console to engage driving position B generates the signature one-pedal feeling of the BMW Group’s electric vehicles by providing particularly strong recuperation.
The latest-generation high-voltage battery is positioned low down in the car’s underbody, lowering the centre of gravity by around 7.5 centimetres compared with its conventionally powered X3 siblings. The standard adaptive suspension includes electronically controlled dampers, whose characteristics adapt to the road surface and situation at hand.
The exterior design of the new BMW iX3 M Sport displays the typical proportions of a Sports Activity Vehicle, which means it provides a visual showcase for the robust premium character and all-round talents espoused by BMW X models. Model-specific design features optimise the car’s aerodynamic properties while lending visual expression to its sustainability-focused drive concept at the same time. The front apron and BMW kidney grille have a largely enclosed design, while the rear end has also been sculpted in order to reduce air resistance.
The iX3’s hallmark also lies in its versatility which is reflected in spaciousness on a par with that of conventionally powered BMW X3 model variants.
Thanks to the 40 : 20 : 40 split/folding rear seat backrest, load capacity can be increased from 510 to a maximum of 1,560 litres,
as required. BMW IconicSounds Electric which comes as standard, provides acoustic feedback by Hans Zimmer when pressing start/stop. The vehicle also comes with 20-inch M aerodynamic wheels in bicolour in the new aerodynamically optimised design and Adaptive LED headlights,
while also adding acoustic glazing for the front door windows, Comfort Access, Vernasca leather trim and front sports seats. The BMW Head-Up Display, High Beam Assistant and Parking Assistant Plus including Surround View camera are also on hand to enhance both comfort and safety. And for an even more exclusive flair and driving comfort, BMW gesture control, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant are included as standard.
The BMW iX3 M Sport is available in 5 color variants: Carbon Black, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, Piemont Red and Sophisto Grey.
The new BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport
Price: THB 3,899,000 (VAT incl. with 4-year unlimited mileage BSI Standard Package)
The new BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport is a four-door Gran Coupé that combines this vehicle concept’s
hallmark spaciousness and practicality with the sporting ability for which BMW is renowned and a range that also convinces over long journeys. A premium character beyond that of market rivals is reflected in the high level of development of its electric drive system and chassis technology, its elegant design, uncompromising standards when it comes to quality of materials and workmanship and the wide variety of individualisation options available.
The new BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport combines a 210 kW/286 hp electric motor with classical rear-wheel drive. Its maximum range as per the WLTP cycle is up to 483 kilometres with electric energy consumption between 18.7 and 15.8 kWh/100 km and up to 490 kilometres in the NEDC cycle with electric energy consumption at 15.2 kWh/100 km. The drive system generates peak torque of 400 Nm, giving it a 0 – 100 km/h time of 6 seconds. The sporty driving experience is accompanied by a model-specific drive sound delivering authentic feedback to movements of the accelerator. This gives the BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport an extremely energy-charged soundtrack. Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology also comprises a high-voltage battery with the latest battery cell technology. The energy content of the high-voltage battery is 70.2 kWh. DC charging is possible at up to 180 kW, taking approximately 35 minutes
for 0 to 80% charging.
Short overhangs, slim pillars, doors with frameless windows and
a roofline that flows smoothly into the rear underscore a silhouette that very much fits the BMW coupe mould. LED headlights with High-beam assistant,
and the striking BMW kidney grille with its discreetly integrated camera, ultrasonic and radar sensors are the defining features of the front end. The new BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport
is further equipped with M sport package, BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line with extended contents, M Sport brake, M rear spoiler. Drivers’ comfort is further enhanced by the automatic operation of tailgate and comfort access system. Moreover, the 18-inch M aerodynamic wheels in Bicolour also gives a sleek exterior look to this model.
The interior brings a driver-focused cockpit and ambience of premium luxury together with a generously sized, variable-use space in Interior trim finishers Aluminium ‘Mesheffect’. Electric seat adjustment with memory, instrument panel in Sensatec leather, 3-Zone automatic air conditioning, and ambient lighting all play their part in enhancing driving pleasure and comfort.
The BMW Operating System 8 has been designed with a clear focus on the touchscreen functionality of the BMW Curved Display and spoken communication with the extensively upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The BMW Curved Display fully digital screen grouping brings together a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display behind a glass surface angled towards the driver. BMW Live Cockpit Plus is equipped as standard with its HiFi loudspeaker system, music lovers can enjoy crystal-clear sound quality. The smartphone integration also allows for seamless connectivity, enabling drivers to access their favourite apps and media on the go. Plus, the BMW lconicSounds Electric enables integration of new sound variants created as part of a collaboration with film music composer Hans Zimmer.
Assistance functions are fitted to provide safe and comfortable driving and parking. The new BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport comes equipped with Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function and Driving Assistant. Available in the model are Parking Assistant, Attentiveness Assistant, Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Acoustic Protection for Pedestrians, crash sensor, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), and Teleservices.
The new BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport is now available in four colours: Black Sapphire, Mineral White, M Brooklyn Grey and M Portimao Blue.
