2011 has been one the most successful years for BMW M GmbH since the company’s founding. Tapping on the growth, BMW has announced plans to launch a new line-up of vehicles, known as M performance models, at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.

M Performance models will sit in between standard variants and M vehicles, and will be offered both aesthetics and performance upgrades. The Bavarian carmaker has planned to offer exclusive engine variants for these models, together with handling upgrades as well as a differentiated physical appeal.

President of BMW M GmbH, Dr Friedrich Nitschke, has confirmed the inclusion of diesel models in the new lineup. All-wheel drive variants may also be offered, as these are thought to be inappropriate to be part of the original M offerings.

Nitscheke has also added that the new product category will inherit the rationale behind the M535i of the 1980s, offering extra performance coupled with enhanced driving dynamics, yet retaining a subtle image.