xDrive is BMW’s version of all wheel drive. The xDrive system is one step above any other all wheel drive system. BMW wants to ensure their drivers have the absolute best traction no matter the driving situation. It intensifies agility and helps the driver stay in control even when the driver is driving fast or going around tight curves. xDrive is the permanent all wheel drive system BMW offers. You will see xDrive on newer models unless BMW decides to create something down the road to replace the xDrive system.

 
How does xDrive work? Well, when the driver is driving under normal driving conditions, the xDrive will distribute power between both front and rear axels at a 40 to 60 ratio. If driving situations change or if the road conditions change, the ratio will change to ensure proper balance and control is provided to the driver. The change is so subtle and fast that the driver and passengers do not feel any change whatsoever. BMW’s xDrive can place driving forces on one axel if need be. The most common situations include driving uphill or slippery road conditions. These types of situations need more focus on one axis. The single axis selection provides the needed traction to ensure the driver gets to where they need to go by placing power on the axel that will benefit the most.
 

BMW xDrive can do other things to provide a safer driving experience for its drivers. For example, if you understeer, the power of the front axel will reduce. If oversteering occurs, there will be more power to the front axel. Essentially, it will redistribute the power to help the driver with stability and better driving.
 

xDrive ensures the driver that no driving power is wasted because of loss of traction. The system is controlled by Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and sensors will help monitor road conditions for the driver.