Best Drivetrain Systems

22nd Dec 2022

By Ellie Brown

Drivetrain Systems

From rugged all-wheel drive vehicles to front-and rear-wheel drive models that thrive on the road, there is plenty of variation when it comes to the selection of new and used cars on the market.

We have listed the different drivetrains that are available, outlining both their benefits and the wide range of cars on offer.

BMW xDrive

BMW M3 xDrive

xDrive is the term BMW uses to refer to their all-wheel drive system. Their intelligent all-wheel drive technology can send power to the front or rear wheels, depending on where the most traction is needed to increase grip on the road during unpredictable conditions.

BMW xDrive models are well-known for their dynamic driving experience, off-roading capabilities, and towing abilities. They operate seamlessly during wet, icy and muddy weather conditions and on uneven road surfaces to allow for a relaxing experience during every journey.

The award-winning 5 Series executive car is available with xDrive, as well as the family-friendly X3 SUV and the emission-free all-electric iX.

 

What is BMW xDrive?

 

BMW sDrive

BMW 3 Series driving in the countryside

Unlike BMW's xDrive models, sDrive pertains to vehicles with two-wheel drive technology. Depending on the model, power can be directed to either the front or the rear wheels, resulting in an effortless driving experience and making them the most popular BMW models on offer.

Front-wheel drive models include some of BMW's most affordable cars on the market such as the best-selling 1 Series, while rear-drive models feature sportier, high-performance models like the classic Z4 sports car and the luxurious 8 Series.

 

What is BMW sDrive?

 

MINI ALL4

MINI Countryman Winding Road

MINI know a thing or two about producing quality vehicles with an abundance of style and luxury, and in recent years they have decided to branch out to the rugged side with the introduction of ALL4 all-wheel drive in 2010.

Much like BMW's xDrive system, ALL4 identifies inconsistencies with the road surface in order to keep the vehicle safely on the road at all times. If wheelspin is detected, power can be sent to either of the four wheels to increase grip and stability.

Currently, there are a couple of MINI models that come with an ALL4 all-wheel drive system, including the adventurous Countryman SUV and the refined and versatile Clubman.

 

What is MINI ALL4?

 

Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Exterior Front

If you have ever been in the market for a Mercedes-Benz model, there is a good chance you have come across the term '4MATIC'. This is the German carmaker's answer to all-wheel drive and is standard on plenty of models across the versatile range.

The 4MATIC all-wheel drive technology can effortlessly detect how much grip is being produced from each wheel to maximise traction and avoid any accidents out on the road.

Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC models include spacious SUVs from the refined and practical GLC to the rugged G-Class and executive cars namely the luxurious E-Class and C-Class models.

 

What is Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC?

 

Find your perfect car with Stratstone

With a fantastic range of new and used cars available at Stratstone, there is sure to be a model that suits your needs and responsibilities.

So whether you are looking for a vehicle with front, rear, or all-wheel drive technology, just contact your local Stratstone retailer to book a test drive or find out more information about the range.