One of the biggest virtues of the BMW M235i is its fun handling which is a result of its fantastic chassis and rear-wheel-drive configuration. Now BMW announced they are launching an all-wheel-drive version of the M235i which is heavier, more expensive than standard model, and not as fun. And they expect you to buy it.

In fairness, the all-wheel-drive system in the BMW M235i xDrive, mated to an 8-speed Steptronic sport transmission, does result in superior grip and traction, so the car can now print form 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, which makes it one of the top awd sports cars.

Also, if you live somewhere with cold weather and lots of rain, all-wheel-drive gives peace of mind and gives you confidence to push the car to its limits without terrifying yourself to death. But the truth is, in reality, four-wheel-drive is only of any use 10 percent of the time. The rest of the time it is an unnecessary commodity.

Just like the normal model, BMW M235i xDrive is powered by a jewel of an engine that is the BMW TwinPower I-6 turbocharged with 330 horsepower. In many ways, this car is the spiritual successor to the original E30 M3 – the rear-drive version, that is.