BMW’s latest V8-engined M3 range will be expanded with the addition of a new model that retains all the driving appeal and sportiness of the Coupé, yet couples these attributes with the space and flexibility of a saloon.
The Munich company believes the new car offers ‘supercar performance with four-door practicality’ and expects to sell examples in the slightly older and family-orientated segment currently served by Audi with its autobahn-storming RS4, and the recently announced Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG.
We covered the new M3 Coupé in detail on launch, and prospective buyers can look forward to the 420hp lightweight V8 propelling the four-door from zero to 62mph in 4.9 seconds, only 0.1 seconds slower than the Coupé, before going on to a top speed limited to 155mph.
Underneath the similarly flared and restyled bodywork, with its characteristically power-bulged bonnet, lies the lightweight and improved suspension of the Coupé. Power is transferred to the road by BMW M’s six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential, while it runs on the same 18-inch Dark Graphite double-spoke light-alloy wheels as the two-door (with a forged and polished 19-inch wheel available as an option).
BMW will announce pricing and launch date for the new M3 Saloon later this year.
Text: Steve Wakefield
Photos: BMW
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