Tested – driving fun in all shapes and sizes

An overview

The latest 1 Series is on hand, both as a 120 and M135 xDrive. This model contrasts sharply with the BMW XM and iX present, both large SUVs. Among these extremes are an M2, 2 Series Active Tourer, gasoline and electric versions of the 4 Series, an M4 CS and several 5 Series models, among others. All the cars present have automatic transmissions.

Thanks to the different powertrains within one model, it is immediately clear how they affect the driving experience. In tests including acceleration, slalom, a wet traffic circle and a wet slalom, insight is gained into how factors such as weight, wheelbase, drivetrain and power shape driving dynamics.

Surprisingly dynamic

One of the most striking models is the iX. This large electric SUV with all-wheel drive contrasts sharply with the classic BMW concept of a six-cylinder combustion engine and rear-wheel drive. Yet it is not lacking in fun: at full acceleration and a fast slalom, the porter flies through the cabin. The iX surprises with its agility; the co-steering rear wheels help considerably in sharp turns. The SUV’s weight can even be utilized in corners to playfully slide the rear end. You wouldn’t expect “drifting” with this car to be so entertaining.

Next comes the smallest car. The 1 Series pulls up smoothly and feels sharp and nimble when cornering. With front-wheel drive, this car is precise to drive and quick to maneuver through the slalom. Next to the 120 is the M135 xDrive, with more power and all-wheel drive. This combination makes the car go even harder through corners. Dynamic it certainly is, but not yet as playful as the iX.

Across

Then it’s time for the M4 CS. This top model in the range demands some caution, with an impressive output of 405 kW – 551 hp. Acceleration is accompanied by a lot of force, and the long drive-through suddenly feels like a sharp turn. A lap later, it switches from all-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive, set via drive mode. The rear end quickly comes around the corner and before you know it, the car is sideways.

On the wet traffic circle, the goal is to get and stay in a drift. This is where the difference in powertrains becomes clear. The 230e Active Tourer, elevated to joke of the day, proves driftable. Using primarily the electric motor on the rear axle, the rear end quickly breaks out. It takes some control to use only the electric motor, because too much throttle causes the gasoline engine to jump in and nose straighten out. With a gently velvet right foot you can find the balance for a drift in this family car, funny!

The XM and the i5 show different characteristics again. In the XM an alternation between understeer and oversteer takes place, the power of 550 kW (748hp) has to be dosed well. The i5 is already easier to dose and moves gracefully around the traffic circle. The i4 is even more refined: the rear end comes around easily and stays balanced at a nice drift angle. Still, the M2 steals the show. The finesse and experience of drifting come out best in this car, with an engine high in revs and spinning rear wheels. A smile cannot be suppressed.

Different driving styles

Since electric models tend to have all-wheel drive, input from the accelerator pedal is translated into pulses that straighten the front of the car. This makes it more challenging to keep an electric BMW in a nice drift.

Last but not least, the weight distribution of the 5 Series Sedan and Touring. These models are naturally longer than other models and take a little longer to get into a drift. But once they go, the drift angle is impressive, especially on the wet slalom. This is in stark contrast to the X1 M35i xDrive, which with all-wheel drive is still especially agile on this twisty stretch.

Returning to the question for a moment. That driving pleasure is an important ingredient in all models is undeniable. From some models you know in advance that they are fun driving cars, others have also surprised. The dynamics vary from car to car, so the experience of driving pleasure is different in each model. Fun turns out to be a broad concept and BMW proves that it can be filled in many ways.