BMW M continues acting like it doesn’t know that the new generation BMW M3 (and M4) has already spilled the beans on its design, therefore prototypes, including the blue one pictured below, still keep the camo on both ends, on the quarter panels, side sills, roof and mirror caps.
BMW has already confirmed that the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six will power the new M3 in two outputs. The new S58 engine’s base variant produces 473 HP (480 PS / 353 kW) and the Competition offers 503 HP (510 PS / 375 kW) and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) of torque. There will be both rear- and all-wheel-drive versions of the M3 and M4, as well as manual and automatic transmission options.
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The more powerful Competition variants of the new BMW M3 will be offered only with the eight-speed automatic transmission (gone is the previous model’s dual-clutch unit), making the six-speed manual option exclusive to the entry-level 473 HP versions of the upcoming performance sedan.
While enthusiasts will come to appreciate the purest version, the huge kidney grille sparks controversy, though it will probably grow on people, as it starts aging. Elsewhere, it will stay true to its heritage by sporting bigger bumpers, bulging fenders, larger side skirts, sculpted diffuser, quad exhaust pipes and a tiny boot lid spoiler. The usual M badges, model-specific wheels, exclusive colors and upholsteries, front sports seats and different steering wheel will round up the changes that will separate it from the standard 3-Series.
A challenger to the likes of the Mercedes-AMG C63 and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, as well as the Audi RS4, despite it being sold exclusively as an estate, the new M3 will premiere next month. It should be one of the best driver’s cars of the year, alongside its two-door sibling, the M4, which will be shown in mid-September as well.
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