What’s the Difference Between BMW sDrive vs. xDrive?

BMW is renowned for making premium luxury automobiles. From powerful engines to responsive drivetrains and elegant cabins, BMW models are famous for upping the ante. But do you know the difference between the BMW sDrive vs. xDrive? Does Drive use more fuel? And is sDrive FWD or RWD? While both are fantastic drivetrain systems, there are some distinctive differences between BMW sDrive vs. xDrive. BMW sDrive is a two-wheel drive system, and xDrive is its all-wheel-drive system. Compare BMW sDrive vs. xDrive here, and then, contact us at Rallye BMW if you have questions by calling (516) 226-7651.

BMW sDrive

BMW sDrive is a two-wheel drive system. This means that the transmission distributes power to only one axle of the vehicle. So, is sDrive FWD or RWD? Typically, BMW vehicles with sDrive are rear-wheel drive, but the 1-Series is an exception and comes with front-wheel drive. A major distinction when comparing FWD and RWD on Syosset roads is traction. FWD vehicles generally have better traction in icy or wet conditions. RWD vehicles tend to have swifter acceleration and sportier handling. So, is sDrive or xDrive better? In order to compare BMW sDrive vs xDrive, let’s take a look at how xDrive differs.

BMW xDrive

BMW’s xDrive isn’t a typical AWD system. There are two significant advantages to xDrive. The first benefit is enhanced safety. The xDrive system is active all the time, but only engages when it senses that your vehicle is losing traction. BMW xDrive continually monitors each wheel’s speed and distributes its power accordingly for the best traction.

BMW xDrive also monitors other driving factors, such as steering wheel angle. For example, if a Roslyn driver is accelerating while the rear wheels are on ice and the front wheels are on pavement, power is then distributed to the front axle to improve traction.

The second benefit of xDrive is enhanced driving dynamics. The system intuitively knows that vehicles have a tendency to over-steer in curves, so it reduces power to the inside wheels, allowing for a smoother turn and faster acceleration. With BMW xDrive, you can rest easy knowing that xDrive always optimizes your safety as you drive around Jericho.

Is sDrive or xDrive Better?

Technically, xDrive offers more dynamic and responsive handling. But it’s also more expensive. And does xDrive use more fuel? Yes, just a little. Choosing between sDrive or xDrive is a matter of deciding whether you’re willing to pay a little extra for the increased traction of xDrive. Also, some drivers prefer the sporty handling of rear-wheel drive, in which case, sDrive could prove to be the better option for you. Really, the right answer depends on what your preferences are.

Which BMWs Have xDrive and Which Have sDrive?

We often get asked at Rallye BMW what BMWs have sDrive and which BMWs have xDrive. Check out the list below:

• sDrive: BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, Z4, X1, X2, X3, X6
• Available with xDrive: BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X1, X2, X3, X6

Experience the Difference Between BMW sDrive vs. xDrive at Rallye BMW

Reading about “the Ultimate Driving Machine” will only go so far. Eventually, you must experience the difference between BMW sDrive vs. xDrive for yourself. If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of a new BMW, contact us at Rallye BMW today. You can also complete a finance application and browse our new vehicle specials from the comfort of your home.