BMW sDrive vs. xDrive: What's the Difference?

 
When shopping for a new BMW for your Redding drives, you’ll likely be wondering whether to choose a model with BMW sDrive or xDrive. But what is the difference between them? BMW sDrive is a two-wheel drive system, and BMW xDrive is the BMW AWD system. xDrive models are sometimes more expensive than their sDrive counterparts, but they offer better traction in slippery driving conditions. Learn more about each with BMW of Chico, and then visit us near Oroville to experience these systems in action.

What’s the Difference between Drivetrain & Driveline?

A car’s drivetrain is the system that helps make your car move, including everything from the engine to the wheels. Often, people refer to the driveline as a drivetrain. Technically, this isn’t wrong because the driveline is part of the drivetrain. But the driveline itself is part of the drivetrain, including the components between the transmission and the wheels. These parts typically make up your 2WD, AWD, or 4WD systems. BMW xDrive and sDrive are two distinct driveline types offered in BMW drivetrains.

What is BMW sDrive?

BMW sDrive refers to a drivetrain system that transmits power to only two wheels. Typically, BMW sDrive will send your vehicle’s engine power to the rear wheels, giving you sporty handling for the Yuba City streets. BMW sDrive is standard on most models and may be the only option on race-inspired cars like the BMW Z4.

What is BMW xDrive?

What sets BMW xDrive all-wheel drive apart from other all-wheel drive systems? The xDrive system is standard on models like the BMW X7 and utilizes intelligent all-wheel drive technology engineered by the brand for ultimate performance. Some of the ways this unique BMW AWD system works to give you enhanced power and capability include:

• Works together with Dynamic Stability Control to identify traction loss and apply individual brakes as needed
• Combined with Dynamic Traction Control, the BMW xDrive system provides additional wheel spin and brake adjustments when the road conditions become rough.
• Includes a rear-wheel bias that allows driving enthusiasts to still enjoy the raw acceleration and speed that BMW has to offer.

Continue Your BMW sDrive vs. xDrive Comparison at BMW of Chico

When you’re ready to see the exclusive BMW AWD system in action, reach out to BMW of Chico. Our team will put you behind the wheel of both sDrive and xDrive-equipped models so you can feel the difference on the Chico roads firsthand. In the meantime, learn more about how BMW puts performance first at our BMW Research Hub.