BMW, one of the world's most successful premium carmakers, also boasts an excellent position in the all-wheel drive (AWD) market, a segment it first entered 30 years ago.

BMW's first foray into the AWD market came with the unveiling of the BMW 325i "Allrad" at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1985. BMW's very first AWD system not only improved traction away from surfaced roads and in adverse weather conditions, but also made for more dynamic handling through corners.

Continuously evolving since 1985, the present day intelligent BMW xDrive AWD system takes typical BMW driving dynamics to new levels. The current generation of this system is controlled by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) system, which ensures that xDrive always responds appropriately at the earliest possible moment, based on reliable sensing and monitoring of the current driving situation. Around one in three BMW cars sold around the world is now equipped with the intelligent BMW xDrive AWD system.

BMW's success in this segment has been driven not only by the popular BMW X models but also by AWD models based on the other model series, from the BMW 1 Series to the 7 Series. Across these model series, a large choice of AWD models is offered in a wide range of engine versions. At the same time, BMW continues to refine this technology and take it in new directions. By offering BMW xDrive in combination with a hybrid drive and with a front-wheel drive platform, the company has repeatedly demonstrated its proficiency in the AWD field. Today, BMW offers more than 110 models with BMW xDrive in 12 different model series.