BMW unveils new models for 2016

BMW is introducing the new M140i and the M240i M Performance models that sit atop the BMW 1 and 2 Series ranges, as well as the introduction of a plug-in hybrid 7 Series model under its iPerformance banner. 

The pinnacle of the BMW 1 Series hatch range and the BMW 2 series Coupe and Convertible lineups are the new M Performance models - the BMW M140i and the BMW M240i. They are powered by a new 3.0-litre straight-six engine with TwinPower Turbo technology that develops a power increase of 14bhp and torque increase of 50Nm, delivering a maximum of 340bhp and 500Nm of torque. 

The new M Performance models also feature electric wastegate control, a close-coupled catalytic converter, an on-demand cooling pump and map-controlled oil pump, electronic power steering, Auto Stop Start and Brake Energy Regeneration. The six-speed manual transmission includes an engagement control function that blips the throttle on downshifts for increased smoothness and sportiness.

The optional eight-speed Sport Automatic gearbox now has a wider spread of ratios to enhance efficiency and is capable of multiple downshifts for greater responsiveness. It incorporates Launch Control with a predictive shift strategy, all linked to the navigation system so that the car can extract every last fraction of performance when accelerating from standstill. 

At the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, BMW announced a new iPerformance range of electrified fuel-saving, emissions-reducing models. They will take technologies developed for BMW i and introduce them into mainstream models. The BMW 740e and 740Le xDrive saloons have now been added to the roster of plug-in hybrid vehicles. 

All iPerformance models benefit from the advanced electronic motors, high-performance lithium-ion batteries and intelligent energy management systems developed by BMW for the all-electric i3 and the plug-in hybrid i8. In the BMW 740e and the BMW 740Le xDrive, the combination of a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo petrol engine and a synchronised electric motor produces a combined 326bhp, with spontaneous delivery and exemplary efficiency. They are capable of covering up to 47km on electric power alone.