If you’re new to shopping for a BMW, you might be perplexed when you see terms like “BMW xDrive” and “BMW sDrive.” What do these terms mean and how can they help you decide which BMW is right for you in Darlington or Sumter? The short answer is that BMW s-Drive is any BMW with front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. BMW AWD is called xDrive. Find out which models have two-wheel drive and BMW AWD with BMW of Florence before you dive into our inventory.
Before taking a look at the BMW-specific sDrive and xDrive, let’s take a look at the difference between a drivetrain and a driveline. This information will help in your decision-making process. Sometimes these terms are used interchangeably, which technically isn’t wrong, but isn’t exactly precise since the driveline is a significant part of the drivetrain. The driveline itself is the part of the drivetrain between the transmission and the wheels — the component that is made up of either 2WD, AWD, or in some vehicles, 4WD parts. BMW xDrive and sDrive are technically part of a BMW’s drivetrain, but they are, more specifically, two distinct driveline types.
BMW sDrive is any system that transmits power to only two wheels at a time. For front-wheel drive power goes to the front, while rear-wheel drive sends it to the back. You can often find this in sports models like the BMW 7 Series which thrives with rear-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive is more about stability in models like the crossover BMW X2.
Another name for BMW AWD is BMW xDrive. What makes it different from any other all-wheel drive system? The intelligent all-wheel drive technology engineered by BMW was created with performance in mind, which is why you’ll find it throughout the BMW M line. The xDrive system works in tandem with Dynamic Stability Control to monitor road conditions. If its sensors detect a slick surface or loss of traction, the electronically-controlled system sends additional power to the wheel(s) with the most traction to help keep you in control. It’s just one way BMW offers superior handling on Marion streets.
Is BMW xDrive or sDrive better for the way you drive? If you’re not sure and would like to experience them in person, stop by BMW of Florence for some test drives. To find out which BMW models have sDrive and xDrive visit our BMW research hub. You’ll find articles about BMW models and features.
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