Following the announcement of its new BMW M Performance Parts accessory division at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show, the automaker has now shown the first components that will be available for its U.S. cars starting next month. The initial batch of their MPP items are designed specifically for the 2012 BMW 335i Sedan and 2011-12 BMW 535i Sedan models, but the more model lines and additional parts for vehicles with both gasoline and diesel engines will be coming down the pipeline. Owners can buy the parts and also have them installed at any authorized BMW dealer.
Highlighting the functional side of the BMW M Performance Parts portfolio are new 20-inch lightweight forged alloy wheels that save 2.4 pounds per corner and help reduce unsprung weight to improve handling and steering response. They feature a bi-color finish (bright turned faces with Ferric Grey paint between the spokes) and an M logo center cap. To improve stopping power, a Brembo brake upgrade brings larger-diameter but lighter internally-vented rotors and beefier aluminum calipers that can be finished in M Performance Red, Yellow or Orange. While BMW makes no claims for improved performance, the MPP catalog also includes a stainless-steel exhaust system with chrome outlet finishers.
On the exterior cosmetic front, owners of these 3 Series/5 Series four-doors can opt for several distinctive exterior trim items, including gloss- black grille elements and carbon fiber mirror caps. An M Performance Sport Stripe kit is available for the 335i Sedan while a subtle decklid spoiler is on offer for the 535i Sedan. Inside, the M Performance makeover continues with a Motorsport-derived flat-bottom steering wheel that features a thick rim and a red centering stripe at the 12 o’clock position plus a seven-piece carbon fiber and Alcantara trim set. The M Performance carbon fiber bits use an open-pore finish in place of the standard glossy Piano Black to impart a more competition-style look to the cabin while the Alcantara dash trim features an M Performance brand mark. Buyers also can opt for carbon fiber shift knob and shift lever, also rendered in open-pore finish.
