Starting this summer, the plug-in hybrid models built by BMW will be called iPerformance, a move that is meant to emphasize the fact that technology from the BMW i sub-brand is being used across the hybrids lineup. The Bavarians just announced that starting with July the range of plug-in models at the customers’ disposal will increase dramatically.
Under the iPerformance umbrella we will find the new BMW 740e – in both standard wheelbase and long wheelbase guise – as well as with xDrive all-wheel drive. Using the same drivetrain as the BMW xDrive40e – another iPerformance model launching this July – the 7er will have a 2-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood working with an electric motor encased within the gearbox. Together, the combustion engine and electric motor featured in these models generate a system output of 326 PS.
Another iPerformance model will be the BMW 330e that has a total output of 252 PS and the BMW 225xe Active Tourer with 224 PS at its disposal – thanks to a three-cylinder 1.5-liter engine and an electric motor. The Active Tourer is the only iPerformance model that uses a three-cylinder engine, the rest of the cars so far are being fitted with 2-liter four-cylinder units.
To separate these cars from the rest of the range, BMW decided to employ a couple of smart design cues which will set them apart. In addition to the “eDrive” logo on the C-pillar, the BMW iPerformance models will feature a BMW i logo on the front left and right sidewalls, blue hubcaps and a BMW kidney grill with slats painted in typical BMW i blue.
From December 2016, these new features will be standard on the BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance and on all further BMW iPerformance models from July 2016 onward. Analogous to the model name plates on all BMW models, specific design features on BMW iPerformance models can also be omitted if you want to.
Originally designed for the BMW i3 and the BMW i8 – BMW ConnectedDrive services as well as the complete BMW i 360° ELECTRIC portfolio – are now available for all iPerformance models.
