What's the news?
BMW has come up with a new configuration system for its M models, which it says will allow the vehicle 'to be tailored even more closely to the individual' that is driving it.
BMW has long offered mode buttons in its M cars, which can change things like throttle response and steering weight, as well as (where fitted) damper settings and the torque split of M xDrive. Now, though, even the braking set-up will be configurable on M cars, going forward.
Chief in the system is the Setup button on the centre console, which enables direct access to all available options for five different vehicle parameters. Pressing 'Setup' brings up a menu in the Control Display, which then offers an overview of the settings currently in use. Then the driver can cycle through their desired modes for all of the engine, suspension, steering, brakes and the M xDrive system (on models with it fitted) - this can be done either directly on the touchscreen or through the iDrive controller.
For the engine, choose from Efficient, Sport and Sport Plus; for the chassis, it runs Comfort, Sport and then Sport Plus; with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) deactivated, the M xDrive can cycle through 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD (rear-wheel drive); and both the M electromechanical steering and the new braking system can be toggled between Comfort and Sport. Beyond these, the engine sound, gearshift speeds, DSC and Auto Start Stop function can also be configured, and then the driver can create two 'set-ups' that they like, storing them in the system and then accessing them via the M1 and M2 buttons on the steering wheel - in an instant.
The braking is the part we've not seen before, of course. All of the brake activation, the brake booster and the braking control functions are brought together into a single, integrated module, saving 2kg in weight. The booster itself is vacuum-free, which enhances the car's overall efficiency, with the Comfort and Sport settings altering the amount of pressure required on the brake pedal required to slow the car. In Comfort, more pressure is required for comfortable driving, while in Sport the pedal needs less effort to bring in maximum braking capability. This can be paired with the standard M compound brakes or the optional M carbon ceramic stoppers.
A final addition to all the onboard configurability is the M Mode button, again on the centre console, which can alter the responses of the driver assist systems, the displays in the digital instrument cluster and the layout of the Head-Up Display. These can be toggled between Road and Sport modes. In Competition-spec M models, an extended press of the M Mode button switches the displays into Track mode, for an even more focused display.
Anything else?
The first models to get this latest M configurability will be the M8 Coupe, the M8 Convertible, the M8 Competition Coupe and the M8 Competition Convertible.