BMW is ushering in 2018 by announcing a series of
changes to an assortment of different models in Europe. First and foremost, the
company will equip all diesel-powered versions of the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-Series
with a Selective Catalytic Reduction system as well as AdBlue injection
technology. Certain versions of the X1 will also receive the SCR system as well
as a new exhaust system which helps to reduce emissions.
The eco-friendly changes don’t stop there, as
several gasoline-powered models will come equipped with a particulate filter,
too. The filter was introduced in July on the 220i Coupe, but it will soon
spread to other 2-Series models as well as the versions of the X1, X3, 4-Series
Coupe, and i8.
Speaking of the X3, BMW will add an xDrive25d
variant which is powered bt a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel
engine that produces 231 PS and 500 Nm of torque. The
engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive
system which enable the crossover to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in
6.8 seconds. The performance-oriented X3 M40i, on the other hand, will gain a
standard M Sport differential. BMW says the change will provide “even more
dynamic acceleration out of bends.”
Manual gearbox fans will be disappointed, as the
number of models equipped with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission
will increase even further. BMW says the Steptronic gearbox is headed for the
320d xDrive Sedan / Touring, 320d xDrive Gran Turismo, 420i xDrive Coupe, 430i
Coupe, and 420d xDrive Gran Coupe.
Moreover, the 5-Series Sedan and Touring will soon
receive additional standard equipment including LED fog lights and Park
Distance Control. Other changes include standard 40/20/40 split-folding rear
seats on the sedan and a wheel bolt securing system.
Last, all BMW models will come
standard ConnectedDrive services. This allows owners to view vehicle
information or lock / unlock doors from their smartphone. Most of the changes
will go into effect by the spring, but some will be implement as early as
March.
