To celebrate BMW’s sponsorship of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and inspired by the BMW London 2012 Performance Team, BMW has introduced two new Performance Edition models based on the popular BMW 1 Series and 3 Series.

Building on the sporting looks of the popular 1 Series Sports Hatch, the 1 Series Performance Edition comes with M aerodynamic bodystyling, dark chrome 18-inch M light alloy wheels, High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, dark chrome exhaust tailpipe and dark line rear lights.  Enhancing its sporty driving style is the addition of M Sport Suspension, while sport seats with Royal Blue stitching, M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel and gearshift leaver, floor mats with Royal Blue piping and London 2012 exterior badges complete the sporty look. Available on the 116d and 118d three- and five-door models, the BMW 1 Series Performance Edition costs just £1,500 more than the equivalent ES model, representing a saving for customers of £1,725.  Prices start at £20,740 for a BMW 116d Performance Edition three-door.

The BMW 3 Series Saloon is also getting a Performance Edition revision.  Available on the 318d, the BMW 3 Series Performance Edition will gain an M aerodynamic body kit, M sport multi-function leather steering wheel, sport seats, floor mats with blue piping, 18-inch light alloy wheel, chrome exhaust finisher and London 2012 exterior badges, making the BMW 3 Series a winner in the style race. The BMW 3 Series Performance Edition costs just £500 more than the equivalent 3 Series ES Saloon, saving customers a substantial £2,030. Prices start at £25,825 for the BMW 318d Performance Edition Saloon.

The BMW Performance Editions are available in a choice of four colours; Alpine White, Titanium Silver, Bluewater and Black Sapphire, and are on sale now.

Chosen by London 2012 as the Official Automotive Partner, BMW’s sustainability credentials will help London 2012 deliver a sustainable Games. As part of the partnership, BMW will supply a range of Efficient Dynamic diesel cars, hybrids and electric vehicles, achieving average CO₂ emissions below the LOCOG target of 120g/km, as well as bicycles and motorcycles. The BMW London 2012 Performance Team will also benefit by being provided with vehicles to support them in their preparation for the Games.