The new BMW M2 CS sets a new benchmark on the legendary Nordschleife racetrack of the Nürburgring on 11 April 2025. Driven by BMW M development engineer Jörg Weidinger, it completed the 20.823-kilometre Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit in 7:25.5 minutes, beating the previous best time for compact cars by eight seconds. This record-setting BMW M2 CS not only raises the bar in the compact car class, but also further solidifies BMW M's reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance vehicles that excel both on the road and on the racetrack.

"The BMW M2 CS has achieved a significant milestone with its lap time on the Nordschleife, showcasing the potential for combining performance, technology and exceptional driving dynamics into a single vehicle," stated Franciscus van Meel, the CEO of BMW M GmbH. “We are proud that the M2 CS has once again set a new benchmark in the compact car class with this lap time.”

Following the impressive record set by the BMW M2 CS which now holds the top spot in the compact category, the BMW M3 CS Touring is now another representative of the fastest production vehicles from BMW M GmbH in the mid-size category. With a time of 7:29.490 minutes, the BMW M3 CS Touring is the fastest Touring of all time on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.

"From the very beginning, it was clear that the BMW M3 CS Touring would set new standards in dynamics. With a time under 7:30 minutes, this model impressively demonstrates that this vehicle concept perfectly combines racing DNA with everyday usability." – commented Franciscus van Meel.

The continuation of a success story

The previous best time for a BMW M2 model was set by Weidinger in April 2023, when he completed the course in 7:38.7 minutes. Two years later, he beat this time by 13 seconds, breaking the class record of 7:30 minutes for the first time. With the newly set best time, the BMW M2 CS demonstrates its outstanding performance as well as the innovative power and engineering skills of BMW M GmbH.

The new record time for the BMW M3 CS Touring marks a new benchmark in the mid-size category and is also the fastest ever recorded lap time for a Touring body style on the 20.823-kilometer-long track in the "Green Hell". In April of this year, Jörg Weidinger, BMW M development engineer and seasoned record driver, first broke the 7:30-minute barrier with a Touring Car. The previous fastest time for a Touring, set by the BMW M3 Touring in 2022, was 7:35.060 minutes.

The mid-size category is currently dominated by the latest models from the BMW M3 and M4 family. The BMW M4 CSL holds the fastest time at 7:18.137 minutes, followed by the BMW M4 CS at 7:21.989 minutes and the BMW M3 CS at 7:28.760 minutes. The new time of the BMW M3 CS Touring, just over a second behind, showcases the vehicle's extraordinary performance, reinforcing its reputation as the perfect "One Car Solution."

BMW M is at home on the Nürburgring

The origin and heart of BMW M's success story at the Nürburgring is the BMW M Test Centre. With its professional infrastructure and perfect location, it serves as the starting point for the successful development of new vehicle projects and testing under demanding conditions. The partnership between BMW M and the Nürburgring, which has thrived for over 25 years, is a great success and is visible from afar through landmarks such as the BMW M Power Grandstand and the BMW M Bridge. Through the offerings of the local BMW M Driving Experience, enthusiasts can drive BMW M vehicles themselves under professional guidance through the "Green Hell." The redesigned BMW M Power Showroom in 2021 emphasizes the significance of the Nürburgring as the home of BMW M.

The Nürburgring Nordschleife, known worldwide as one of the most challenging racetracks, serves as a proving ground for drivers and vehicles. Spanning 20.832 kilometres and featuring over 70 corners, it demands the highest performance and driving dynamics. Lap times are a benchmark for a vehicle's sporting capabilities, with record runs monitored by a neutral testing organization to ensure compliance with production standards.

For this new edition of the storied model series, the most powerful version of the six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology produces output 530 hp. In the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive, the increased engine power is channelled via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic to all four wheels. BMW Group Plant Munich will build all vehicles of the new BMW M3 Sedan. The production phase-in will commence in July 2024, marking their worldwide launch. 

Traditional race-car feeling. Engine technology borrows from motor racing.

Now in its sixth model generation, the BMW M3 is more powerful, more poised and assured, more advanced and more versatile than ever. The sedan continues a high-performance sports car bloodline that stretches back almost 40 years. The race-car feeling associated with the BMW M3 – present at the driver’s fingertips over every mile of a journey – can be experienced in totally different ways with this latest generation.

The new BMW M3 features a high-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. In all its output variants, the 3.0-litre unit stands out with its healthy appetite for revs into the highest reaches of the engine speed range and hence produces the linear power delivery typical of high-performance models from BMW M GmbH.

The upgraded engine in the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive develops an extra 20 hp, for a maximum output of 530 hp at 6,250 rpm. The upgraded engine, which also serves as the basis for the unit powering the BMW M4 GT3, summons its peak torque of 650 Nm between 2,750 and a now even higher 5,730 rpm. The result is even more ferocious, sustained power delivery that adds another layer of intensity to the performance experience – in particular when the driver is exploring the car’s dynamic limits – and enables impressive acceleration figures.

The new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. The increased output of the two all-wheel-drive models is reflected in 0 to 200 km/h times that are 0.5 seconds quicker in each case. The sedan now records a time of 11.8 seconds. The top speed of 250 km/h is electronically limited as standard; however, if the optional M Driver’s Package is specified, this figure rises to 290 km/h, allowing drivers to utilise the full potential of the powerful engines.

Model-specific composition of engine, transmission and chassis.

The rear-biased setup of the intelligent all-wheel-drive system further enhances the agility of the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and elevates traction to an even higher level. The system teams up with the Active M Differential at the rear axle – whose operation is also fully variable – to add to the signature M feeling when powering through corners. In addition to the default 4WD setting, the driver can also select 4WD Sport mode via the M Setup menu. Here, a higher proportion of drive power is sent to the rear wheels for even more agile handling. Switching off DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) also brings 2WD mode into play, which means power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels. This mode offers skilled drivers a pure-bred driving experience without interventions from the control systems.

The high torsional stiffness of the body structure and chassis mountings creates the ideal platform for impressive driving dynamics and instantaneous response to steering commands. The standard adaptive M suspension gives drivers the ability to adapt the responses of the electronically controlled dampers as they wish. Via the M Setup menu, drivers can select from three different settings to optimise the car’s handling in line with need and personal preference.

The package of chassis technology also includes M Servotronic steering and the integrated braking system, which works in conjunction with both the standard M Compound brakes and the optional M Carbon ceramic brakes. The M Carbon ceramic brakes are around 14 kilograms lighter than the standard M Compound brakes. The reduction in unsprung mass plays a particularly significant role in delivering increased agility, enhanced handling, faster response and lower fuel consumption.

The DSC system, meanwhile, ensures a form of driving pleasure unmatched by any rival. Indeed, with M Dynamic Mode, it offers an ultra-sporty configuration that raises the system’s intervention thresholds when it comes to controlling braking inputs and delays the point at which it steps in to restrict engine output. This maximises the car’s performance dynamics with DSC switched on. The system can also be fully deactivated (DSC off).

The new BMW M3 Sedan can be specified as an option with the M Traction Control function. A standard feature on all Competition models, this slip control tech can be adjusted through 10 stages according to the driver’s preferences or the road conditions at hand. It allows the control system inputs to be reduced in stages so that the driver can approach the physical limits in race action on the track, for example. The M Laptimer and M Drift Analyser help experienced drivers improve their lap times and hone their drifting skills. The integrated application of all drivetrain and chassis systems was fine-tuned at locations including the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, but it also ensures highly dynamic and precisely controllable handling simultaneously in everyday driving.

Axle-specific wheel sizes, M forged light-alloy wheels with a new design.

Standard specification for the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive includes Jet Black forged light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design (19-inch at the front axle and 20-inch at the rear axle). Plus, new forged M light-alloy wheels in 19-inch and 20-inch for-mats have been added to the extensive optional equipment roster. These are now finished in Silver for the first time, their bright, shiny surfaces ensuring a sporty yet also elegantly sophisticated appearance.

Extensive selection of assistance systems; M Mode button to call up personalised selection of functions.

The new BMW M3 Sedan sets new standards in its segment with its extensive range of standard and optional automated driving and parking systems. In order to provide a dynamic experience that is both appropriate for the situation at hand and fits the high-performance sports car brief, the interventions of the driver assistance systems can be adjusted using the M Mode button on the centre console. For example, in the optional TRACK setting conceived for use on race circuits, all comfort and safety systems are temporarily deactivated.

Newly designed headlights and eye-catching details sharpen the cars’ visual character.

Newly designed LED headlights, which bring together low and high beam in a single module, bring fresh accents to the front end of the new BMW M3. Two elegantly sculpted, subtly arrow-shaped and vertically arranged LED units in each module serve as both side lights/daytime driving lights and turn signal indicators. Adaptive LED Headlights with non-dazzling matrix high beam are available as an option and include the cornering light function and urban lights. Blue inlays inside the headlights indicate the presence of this extremely sophisticated light technology. M Shadowline lights with dark inner accents are also available for cars specified with the Adaptive LED Headlights. The model badge on the boot lid of the Competition models is now accented by an elegant silver-coloured surround.

New steering wheels and interior trim elements for the M-specific sports car cockpit.

New steering wheels and controls, plus highly sophisticated materials for the instrument panel and interior trim elements heighten the aura of exclusivity inside the M-specific sports car cockpit. Also playing its part in the dynamic driving experience is a newly designed three-spoke M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and red centre marker in the 12 o’clock position. It now has a flat-bottomed rim and precisely modified spokes. 

High-quality, carefully crafted materials and M-specific design features in the interior create a modern premium ambience with sporting flair. The interior trim elements in the instrument panel, control panel and cup holder cover now come as standard in Dark Graphite matt. M Carbon Fibre now additionally includes elements for the steering wheel and the gearshift paddles of the Competition models. The optional Sensatec instrument panel now has a further refined surface structure.

The standard M sport seats offer an array of electrically operated adjustment options to make it easier to find the perfect position behind the steering wheel. Available as alternatives to the standard Merino leather trim are Merino full-leather trim, BMW Individual Merino leather trim with extended features and BMW Individual Merino full-leather trim – each in a choice of four colours. The optional, also fully electrically adjustable M Carbon bucket seats provide an optimum, racing-car-like connection between driver and car. They fuse racing functionality with luxurious craftsmanship and excellent comfort over long distances. The use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the seat surface and backrest elements, plus cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints enable a weight saving of 9.6 kilograms over the standard M sport seats.

BMW Curved Display and new BMW Operating System 8.5.

The new editions of the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M3 Touring also welcome the latest generation of the display and control/operation system, BMW iDrive, based on BMW Operating System 8.5, into cockpits shaped by progressive sporting appeal. Also on the options list is the BMW Head-Up Display, which projects information relevant to driving – including a multi-coloured rpm dial, Shift Lights and M View – onto the windscreen, again in an M-specific style.

Distinctive looks and higher-intensity performance with M Carbon exterior package, M Race Track package and BMW M Performance Parts.

An M Carbon exterior package specific to each of the new high-performance cars brings bespoke precision to their outward appeal. With inlays for the wide front air intakes and a rear diffuser with unique geometry for each model, plus exterior mirror caps and a rear spoiler made from CFRP for the BMW M3 Sedan, the M Carbon exterior package also brings fresh visual sharpness to the race-car character of the two models. The M Race Track package, which includes M Carbon ceramic brakes, M Carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger and Carbon Fibre interior trim elements, reduces vehicle weight by as much as 25 kilograms.

The powertrain concept for the new BMW M3 CS teams a 405 kW/550 hp six-cylinder in-line engine with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. These combine to produce a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 3.4 seconds and supreme driving talents that can be enjoyed from each of its four seats. The new BMW M3 CS will be built in a limited run at BMW Group Plant Munich from March 2023, with its phased launch getting underway the same month. The USA, Germany, the UK and Japan are the most important sales regions for the new special-edition model.

More power, less weight, compelling performance.

A more power/less weight formula instils the new BMW M3 CS with compelling performance qualities and an exclusive aura. It draws its power from a specially upgraded version of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed for the BMW M3 and BMW M4 models. This 3.0-litre unit also forms the basis for the engine that powered the BMW M4 GT3 to the DTM touring car title at the first time of asking in 2022.

The engine under the bonnet of the new BMW M3 CS therefore also boasts a wealth of technological details derived directly from the race-car unit. Its crankcase has a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction and is extremely rigid, making it suitable for very high combustion pressures. Weight-saving cylinder bores with a wire-arc sprayed iron coating reduce frictional losses. The forged lightweight crankshaft aids power build-up with its exceptionally high torsional resistance while also feeding the engine’s high-revving instincts. Its cylinder head has a 3D-printed core, allowing the coolant ducts to be routed in an optimum arrangement for temperature management that would be impossible to achieve using conventional metal casting methods. The system of oil supply is designed to handle the specific challenges of track use, as is the cooling system.

Straight-six engine produces 405 kW/550 hp.

These carefully tailored modifications reflect the unwavering focus on achieving high rev speeds and maximum power delivery with the engine in the new BMW M3 CS. The unit’s considerable upgrade potential paved the way for a 30 kW/40 hp hike in peak output compared with the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 10.0 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 230 – 228 g/km in the WLTP cycle; figures for the NEDC cycle: – ), resulting in 405 kW/550 hp. This increase in power was achieved courtesy of targeted revisions to the engine’s M TwinPower Turbo technology and required no concessions in terms of stability or durability. The adjustments primarily involved raising the maximum charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers from 1.7 to 2.1 bar and making some model-specific tweaks to the engine management.

In addition, a specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates creates an extremely rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure. A press of the accelerator is therefore greeted by even sharper engine response and direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain. The engine in the new BMW M3 CS puts peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) on tap from just 2,750 rpm and sustains it all the way to 5,950 rpm. It generates maximum output at 6,250 rpm and tops out at 7,200 rpm.

The unit’s specific performance characteristics are dominated by its unabated power delivery through to the upper echelons of the rev range. This is accompanied by the emotionally stirring soundtrack produced by the dual-branch exhaust system featuring electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design and – in customary M fashion – two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt Black. Selecting the SPORT or SPORT+ modes for the engine setting in the M Setup menu dials up the drive sound to produce a note with unmissable racing car undertones. This injects real aural drama into proceedings, particularly with gear changes and the accompanying adjustments in rev speed.

Feeding standout power onto the road to optimum effect: eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive, Active M Differential.

The drive torque unleashed by the engine in the new BMW M3 CS is relayed via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. This is operated using either the M-specific selector lever on the centre console or the carbon-fibre shift paddles on the steering wheel. The driver can use the Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics, with the choice of comfort-oriented, sporty and track-optimised settings.

The traction and agility of the new BMW M3 CS are both enhanced by the presence of M xDrive all-wheel drive, which uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case to ensure fully variable and super-smooth distribution of the engine’s power between the front and rear wheels. The multi-plate clutch’s oil supply has been optimised to keep the all-wheel-drive system performing effectively even under hard driving on the track. The system’s rear-wheel bias and the way it teams up with the Active M Differential at the rear axle – whose operation is also fully variable – add to the signature M feeling when accelerating or powering through corners.

The M Setup menu lets the driver switch from the default 4WD setting to 4WD Sport mode, which directs an even greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can also switch off the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system altogether and engage 2WD mode. By sending drive power solely to the rear wheels and suppressing any intervention from the control systems to stabilise the vehicle, this setting engages skilled drivers in the driving experience to an even more intense degree.

The engine, transmission and M xDrive join forces to produce stunning acceleration times. The new BMW M3 CS takes just 3.4 seconds to power from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) and 11.1 seconds to reach 200 km/h (124 mph) from rest. The midrange surge from 80 to 120 km/h (50 – 75 mph) is over in 2.6 seconds (in 4th gear) or 3.3 seconds (in 5th gear). The BMW M3 CS comes with the M Driver’s Package as standard and has an electronically limited top speed of 302 km/h (188 mph).

Bespoke tuning for chassis technology and the DSC system; track tyres as standard.

The chassis technology in the new BMW M3 CS has been tuned precisely to the engine’s performance characteristics, the overall vehicle concept and its weight distribution. The model-specific settings for the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode have also been purposefully geared to the specific demands of high-speed circuit driving.

The individually tuned axle kinematics and bespoke wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs and anti-roll bars serve to optimise steering precision, transmission of lateral control forces when cornering, spring and damping response and wheel location. The electronically controlled dampers of the adaptive M suspension on the new BMW M3 CS likewise come in a model-specific setup, as do its electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio and its integrated braking system.

Standard specification for the special-edition model includes M Compound brakes with brake callipers painted in a choice of Red or Black. There is also the option of M Carbon ceramic brakes whose brake callipers are available in matt Gold or Red. Also on the standard equipment list for the new BMW M3 CS are forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive V-spoke design with a Gold Bronze finish. These particular M light-alloy wheels can also be ordered in an optional matt Black finish. Measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear, the wheels are fitted as standard with track tyres that have been purpose-developed for the special-edition model and measure 275/35 ZR19 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear. As an alternative to these tyres, which are specially designed for circuit driving, customers also have the no-cost option of high-performance tyres with the same dimensions.

Lightweight construction with extensive use of carbon fibre; improved body rigidity.

Extensive, model-specific lightweight design measures play a major part in moulding the performance qualities and exclusive character of the new BMW M3 CS. The use of components made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) both inside and out is of key importance here. Besides its carbon fibre roof, the special-edition model also uses this lightweight, high-tech material for its bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser and rear spoiler. Its centre console, the shift paddles on the steering wheel and its interior trim strips are likewise all manufactured from CFRP. The standard M Carbon bucket seats also do their bit to keep weight down in the cabin. The titanium rear silencer, meanwhile, shaves more than 4 kilograms off the weight of the exhaust system fitted on the new BMW M3 CS. The various lightweight design measures bring about a total weight saving of some 20 kilograms compared to the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive.

Body rigidity can be further increased by specifying a package of high-precision strut braces for the engine compartment that have also been engineered for lightness. The cast aluminium elements connecting the spring strut towers to the front end feature a weight-optimised geometry that has been precisely matched – with the help of numerical models – to the forces applied in various driving situations.

Exclusive design features promise thrilling performance.

The new BMW M3 CS instantly announces its sharper character with a series of individual design features. The Frozen Solid White paint finish available for the exterior is exclusive to the latest special-edition model from BMW M GmbH. Exposed carbon-fibre surfaces for the roof, the two indents chiselled into the bonnet, the front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear apron combine with the Black side skirts and M gills to provide a stunning contrast to the new paint finish. Signal Green solid, Brooklyn Grey metallic and Sapphire Black metallic are available as alternative exterior colours.

The vehicle’s front end sports a weight-saving, frameless BMW kidney grille with a stripped-back air reminiscent of racing machines. Designed especially for this model, identifying features include red contour lines and the “M3 CS” badging on the upper of the two horizontal grille bars. Both the model badge at the front and its counterpart on the boot lid have black surfaces with a red border.

The BMW Laserlight headlights included in standard specification add another particularly striking flourish to the front end of the new BMW M3 CS. By illuminating yellow instead of white – both during the Welcome sequence when the vehicle is unlocked and while low beam or high beam is switched on – they reference successful GT racing cars.

M Carbon bucket seats with exclusive surfaces and seam patterns.

Inside the new BMW M3 CS, a sports car cockpit designed with concentrated driving pleasure and maximum performance in mind is brought together with advanced digital technology and exclusive design elements. The driver and front passenger are welcomed as standard by M Carbon bucket seats in a model-specific design. Fully electric and heated, they feature integral head restraints along with an illuminated model badge, resulting in a unique blend of racing flair and long-distance comfort. The use of CFRP in the structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest as well as the eye-catching cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints are testimony to the seats’ weight-minimising construction.

The M Carbon bucket seats in the new BMW M3 CS are upholstered in Merino leather and feature an exclusive design in a Black/Red colour scheme with distinctive contrast stitching. This bi-colour finish is repeated for the two seats in the rear compartment of the sedan. The door panels are trimmed entirely in Black leather in both the front and the rear, while red “CS” lettering adorns the lightweight-design centre console. The standard equipment roster for the new BMW M3 CS also includes M seat belts with a woven stripe pattern in BMW M GmbH colours, door sill plates bearing the inscription “M3 CS”, an Anthracite-coloured headliner, interior trim strips in Carbon Fibre finish and an M Alcantara steering wheel with CFRP shift paddles and a red centre marker.

Setup button for customising the car’s configuration.

The M-specific control/operation system includes the Setup button on the centre console, which enables direct access to the settings options for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M xDrive. Two individually configured setup variants can be stored permanently, together with the preferred settings for the engine note, the DSC system, the Automatic Start/Stop function and the shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, and then retrieved using the M buttons on the steering wheel.

Also fitted as standard in the new BMW M3 CS is the M Drive Professional system. Consequently, not only does the special-edition model benefit from the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer functions for evaluating and recording driving skills and performance at the track, it additionally comes with M Traction Control, whose ten stages provide the ideal tools for pushing the car hard on closed circuits.

The M Mode button on the centre console – also part of the M Drive Professional package – can be used to adjust both the level of driver assistance system activity and the content shown in the information display and optional Head-Up Display, with a choice of ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.

BMW Curved Display with M-specific read-outs.

The new BMW M3 CS boasts the latest-generation BMW iDrive vehicle experience based on BMW Operating System 8, which includes the BMW Curved Display for the cockpit. This is formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches, which are housed together behind a curved glass surface. With its ergonomic driver-centric positioning, the BMW Curved Display makes the already intuitive touch control even more user-friendly.

The information display’s graphical layout and the M‑style content shown there lend themselves to a focused, performance-led driving experience. All driving-related data as well as vehicle status and settings information are neatly arranged within it. The familiar M Shift Lights appear at the top of the information display, while the driving stability system, M xDrive and traction control modes are all indicated at the lower edge. Special widgets containing information on the current vehicle setup, as well as tyre pressure and temperature can be added to the control display’s home screen.

Top-class options for added pleasure and comfort during everyday driving.

The standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional comes with functions including the BMW Maps navigation system, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a WiFi interface. The BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific readouts and the BMW Drive Recorder are both available as options.

The new BMW M3 CS additionally offers customers a select choice of comfort features and driver assistance systems, with the focus placed firmly on the enjoyment of unadulterated driving pleasure. It is equipped as standard with the latest version of Comfort Access, two-zone automatic climate control, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system. An alarm system, automatic boot lid operation and the Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant systems can be added as options.

Goodwood. All eyes will be on BMW M GmbH at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, as BMW’s legendary Motorsport division celebrates five decades of success. Festivalgoers will witness the world premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring and the UK premiere of the new BMW M4 CSL, as both take to the hill throughout the world-famous four-day event. All this against the backdrop of a striking central feature sculpture on the lawn of Goodwood House, designed as a homage to 50 years of motorsport excellence as it showcases some of the most iconic models from BMW M. Elsewhere, visitors will be able to see – and in some cases, drive – the latest models from BMW’s exciting range, including the new BMW iX1, i7, i4 and iX M60.

For the first time in its history, the BMW M range will be complemented by a BMW M3 Touring which is a distillation of the technological prowess and know-how from the BMW M3 and M4 family, combined with the practicality of a five-door touring model. This latest BMW M model will be unveiled at BMW M at Trackside at 10:00 am (BST) on Thursday 23 June, alongside a high-performance M3 Touring with Performance Parts, and can then be seen on the Hillclimb in the ‘First Glance’ category every day of the Festival.

Alongside the M3 Touring and BMW M3 Touring MotoGP Safety Car on the hill will be the new BMW M4 CSL, celebrating its UK premiere. This ultimate, track-honed, two-seater coupe is defined by a 40hp power hike over the current BMW M4 Competition Coupé to 550hp, while meticulous weight-saving measures – including the use of carbon-fibre for the roof, bonnet and boot lid – achieve a 100kg reduction in overall weight (in standard specification in the German market). As a result, the new BMW M4 CSL has recorded the best-ever lap-time for a BMW road car at the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit.

With BMW M GmbH as the honoured marque, the Central Feature in front of Goodwood House will present an eye-catching display of BMW M cars past, present and future. BMW UK will add its legendary BMW 3.0 CSL to the Central Feature, while BMW Group Classic is providing three further examples: the BMW M1 Procar from the late 1970s; a WTCC BMW 3 Series E90; the Le Mans winning 1999 BMW V12 LMR. The display is completed by the BMW M LMDh racecar, that will debut next year.

Besides providing historic BMW M cars for the Central Feature, BMW Group Classic will bring four additional famous race cars to Goodwood’s Hillclimb. Pedro Piquet (BRA), son of three-time F1 World Champion Nelson Piquet, will drive the world’s first turbo-charged F1 World Champion car, the 1983 Brabham BMW BT52.

Steve Soper (UK) will climb the hill in the BMW V12 LMR on Thursday. He is followed by Markus Flasch (CEO of BMW M GmbH, 2018-2021), who will be in the driver’s seat on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

HRH Leopold Prince of Bavaria (GER) will drive the sharknose BMW 635CSi and Bruno Spengler (CAN) will drive his famous BMW Z4 GTR which features the Michel Vaillant Design from the 2015 Spa-Francorchamps 24h race.

For many, BMW M at Trackside will form the focal point for the long weekend’s celebrations. Crowned by an original BMW M1, the stand will host iconic models from BMW M’s illustrious past, from the legendary BMW M3 E30 to the revered BMW M3 CSL E46. They will take their place alongside a thrilling line-up of modern-day BMW M greats, from the ultimate 635hp BMW M5 CS and track-honed BMW M4 GT3 to the exclusive new BMW M850i Convertible and innovative electric BMW i4 M50. Visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of the future for BMW M, with the innovative BMW Concept XM, a vision of uncompromising high performance and extravagant luxury.

The Stable Yard – once again dedicated to BMW’s latest range of all-electric and electrified models – will offer the chance to see the stunning BMW i Vision Circular, a concept which illustrates the company’s determination to become the most sustainable manufacturer. Optimised for the circular economy and with the goal of achieving 100% recycled and recyclable material use, the BMW i Vision Circular offers a view of a compact yet luxurious fully-electric vehicle with a focus on sustainability for the year 2040.

BMW’s sustainability focus is equally apparent in the new BMW i7, on display in The Stable Yard following its recent unveiling. The latest version of the brand’s flagship saloon is set to redefine the luxury segment with new levels of electrification and digitalisation. Its state-of-the-art all-electric drivetrain is complemented by a blend of luxurious interior design and an astonishing entertainment experience, with the multi-sensory BMW iDrive and unique 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen. These attributes are further displayed in the powerful new BMW M760e, a plug-in hybrid with 571hp that delivers scintillating performance yet achieves remarkable efficiency.

The recently revealed BMW iX1 will make its UK debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, representing another first at the Stable Yard. The third-generation BMW X1 features a sharper design, across-the-board sustainability and cutting-edge digital innovations. Available for the first time with an all-electric drive system, the BMW iX1 xDrive30 is set to offer an electric driving range between 257 – 272 miles (WLTP, provisional figures).

These models will also be joined by the company’s technology flagship, the new BMW iX M60, a fully-electric Sports Activity Vehicle that combines emissions-free driving pleasure and sporting agility with lounge-style luxury and comfort. Powered by two BMW M eDrive electric motors to provide intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive capability, the BMW iX M60 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in a seamless 3.8 seconds, yet still achieve up to 348 miles (WLTP) of driving range on a single charge.

Members of the public will be able to experience the BMW iX M60’s searing performance for themselves during Friday’s ‘Electric Only’ Motor Circuit Test Drives, where they’ll also be able to take to the circuit behind the wheel of the new BMW i4, the brand’s first-ever fully-electric Gran Coupé, and the practical BMW iX3.

Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M, said: “There can be no better place to celebrate our 50th anniversary than among our fans at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, surrounded by the iconic cars that have cemented our position in motorsport history. But we’ll also spend our time at the world-famous event looking to the future, with a selection of exciting new models from our innovative electrified line-up, and the global premiere of the eagerly-anticipated first-ever BMW M3 Touring.”

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held over four days from 23-26 June 2022.

Munich. Vehicles will need to be purely electric, sustainable in every way, more intelligent than ever and capable of conversing naturally with the driver to provide the driving pleasure of the future, as showcased by BMW at the Auto Shanghai 2021 show. And drivers will soon be able to experience this progressive form of personal mobility on the road in the BMW iX. The new model will celebrate its world premiere in real-life, series-produced form as the centrepiece of BMW’s presence in Shanghai, and its market launch in China will get underway over the course of 2021. The BMW Group’s new technology flagship embodies the company’s innovative talents in the areas of design, electric mobility, driving pleasure, sustainability, luxury and connectivity.

The BMW iX is first model in the brand’s line-up to feature the new Operating System 8 and the latest generation of BMW iDrive, which turns the interaction between the driver and vehicle into an intuitive, personal and emotionally engaging experience. At the same time, Operating System 8 provides the basis for the seamless integration of additional digital services. The enhanced possibilities for using market-specific apps in China that this enables brings another focal point to BMW’s presentation at Auto Shanghai 2021. Additional highlights include the world premiere of the BMW 7 Series Two-Tone special-edition model created exclusively for customers in China and a look ahead to the fully electric BMW i4 in M Sport specification.

Auto Shanghai is one of the world’s largest and most significant automotive shows and offers a fascinating overview of the latest industry trends and innovations once again this year. On 21 – 28 April 2021, automotive manufacturers, suppliers and service providers from around the world will flock to the halls of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in China’s commercial capital to show off their new models, products and technologies. As an open-to-the-public event, Auto Shanghai 2021 will be held in compliance with strict hygiene regulations and feature extensive use of digital technology.

The BMW iX: opening the gates to a new era of personal mobility.

The physical world premiere of the BMW iX provides visitors to Auto Shanghai 2021 with a window into a new era of personal mobility. Developed around the BMW Group’s new, modular scalable toolkit as a modern Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), the new model espouses a future-focused view of design, sustainability, driving pleasure, versatility and luxury. The BMW iX is wrapped in a clean-sheet design majoring on precision and minimalism. It combines the locally emission-free driving pleasure and sporting agility provided by electric all-wheel drive and a persuasive operating range with a character profile dedicated to sustainability from the ground up. This covers the whole lifecycle of the vehicle – from the sourcing of raw materials through manufacturing and use to subsequent recycling.

The BMW iX will be offered in two model variants when it goes on sale in late 2021. The electric motors fitted in the BMW iX xDrive50 and BMW iX xDrive40 are – like the power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage batteries – the product of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This means output, dynamism, long-range driving ability and efficiency are all outstanding. The electric all-wheel drive of the BMW iX xDrive50 channels maximum output of more than 370 kW/500 hp to the road, enabling acceleration of 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 5.0 seconds, while also posting a range of more than 600 kilometres (373 miles) and power consumption below 21 kWh per 100 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle. The BMW iX xDrive40 has an output of more than 240 kW/300 hp and completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a shade over 6.0 seconds. Its range is in excess of 400 kilometres (249 miles) and consumption less than 20.0 kWh per 100 kilometres. (All figures relating to performance, energy consumption and range are predicted values based on the car’s current stage of development.)

Like its electric all-wheel drive, the versatile interior of the new car also fits the character of a modern SAV. The vehicle concept and design of the BMW iX attaches a whole new level of focus to the needs of those on board. The car has been developed from the inside out. Its interior offers innovative options for using the time during a journey – and enjoying relaxation, safety, security, and a new form of luxury in the process.

The new technology toolkit, making its debut in the BMW iX, also underpins significant advances in the areas of connectivity and digital services. For example, the tech is designed to be able to process 20 times more data than existing models. And that means many times more sensor data can be processed. The sensor technology itself is likewise more powerful than ever. The BMW iX is also 5G-capable, enabling fast and reliable transfer of large quantities of data between the vehicle and the BMW Cloud.

The new BMW iDrive with seamlessly integrated digital services from Tencent.

The new generation of BMW iDrive lays on an all-encompassing, intelligent, multi-sensory experience tailored to the driver. A natural dialogue is created between the user and their vehicle with the aim of precisely tailoring all the functions controlled via BMW iDrive to the driver’s needs and preferences as the situation demands.

For many years now, BMW has offered customers around the world extensive integration of digital services from third-party providers via its iDrive system. Market-specific applications and services have also been integrated seamlessly into the vehicle’s operating system. Display and operation here will be familiar to customers from their smartphones. As well as the offerings from Apple and Google, apps relevant to the Chinese market provided by local platforms are also integrated. The introduction of BMW Operating System 8 and the latest iDrive generation takes the integration of services from Chinese platform Tencent, in particular, to a new level.

The Operating System 7 found in existing BMW models already enables integration of applications from Tencent which are extremely popular in China. The key ingredient here is the mini program platform from Tencent, which allows digital services in the areas of communication, travel, entertainment, infotainment, edutainment and gaming to be integrated seamlessly into the vehicle’s operating system. New features presented with the introduction of the latest-generation BMW iDrive include the newly developed integration of digital communication service WeChat.

Like the mini program platform as a whole, the WeChat application is integrated natively into the BMW Operating System. This means the functions included in the WeChat app can be operated in extremely user-friendly fashion via the on-board iDrive system, and are viewed on the BMW Curved Display in the familiar way. The various content is shown according to need and context on the information display or control display in the digital screen grouping. The individual functions can be activated quickly and intuitively via the operating system’s selectable apps menu.

The new integrated applications from Tencent will be available from the launch of the BMW iX in China. The initial range of WeChat functions that can be used comfortably, easily and safely in the vehicle via these applications include WeChat phone calls, voice messaging and sharing of location data, which can then be adopted immediately as a navigation destination. Additional functions and apps will also be integrated into the BMW Operating System and updated using the Tencent mini program platform in the future. You can find further information on the new generation of BMW iDrive here.

Stylish luxury for China: the BMW 7 Series Two-Tone special-edition model.

A new special edition of the BMW 7 Series embodying a unique combination of luxury, poise and exclusivity is set to be unveiled for the first time at Auto Shanghai 2021. The BMW 7 Series Two-Tone exudes an exceptionally stylish allure with its Cashmere Silver metallic/Aventurine Red metallic paintwork. The luxury sedan is based on the 12-cylinder BMW M760Li xDrive and will be produced in a limited run of just 25 examples exclusively for customers in China.

As well as BMW’s market-specific interpretation of exclusive driving enjoyment, visitors to Auto Shanghai 2021 will also be greeted by the latest expression of race-car thrills for everyday use – as BMW M GmbH presents its new high-performance sports cars for the premium midsize segment. The BMW M3 Competition Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Competition Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) will be launched in China imminently. The signature M characteristics of the 375 kW/510 hp six-cylinder in-line engine powering the two models, chassis technology optimised using racing car expertise and new setup customisation options provide owners with an inimitable experience of performance at work.

A look ahead to the BMW i4 in M Sport specification. 

At Auto Shanghai 2021 the BMW i4 will offer a first impression of the BMW i4 with the M Sport equipment line set to be made available in China and other markets.
The BMW i4 is a fully electric four-door gran coupé, whose market launch is scheduled for 2021. Its perfect balance of customary BMW sporting ability, long-distance comfort and sustainable performance is unique in this segment. The BMW i4 model range will include a selection of variants enabling a range of up to 590 km / 367 miles in the WLTP cycle or up to 300 miles in EPA testing. The BMW i4 develops output of up to 390 kW /530 hp, enabling it to accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in four seconds.

Munich. More performance, more driven wheels, more inimitable M feeling. Just a few months after the new BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé went on sale, BMW M GmbH is adding another two variants to the model line-up by offering the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the high-performance sports cars in the premium midsize segment for the first time. Precisely channelling the engine’s power to all four wheels brings supreme dynamic prowess to the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 10.0 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.2 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 231 – 228 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 10.0 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.2 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 230 – 227 g/km in WLTP).

The power from the 375 kW/510 hp straight-six engine fitted in the new models is directed via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The M-specific all-wheel-drive system then divides it between the front and rear wheels as required to enhance agility, directional stability, traction and track-focused dynamics at all times. This allows the driver to experience an intoxicating interpretation of the hallmark M performance characteristics reflected, among other things, in even quicker acceleration. The launch of the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive will get underway in July 2021.

M xDrive and Active M Differential for superior handling dynamics.
The M xDrive system’s specially tuned power transmission control already provides a smile-inducing alternative to classical rear-wheel drive for a host of high-performance models from BMW M GmbH. Teaming up with the all-wheel-drive system is the Active M Differential, which also ensures fully variable distribution of drive torque between the rear wheels as the situation demands. This helps to transfer the drive torque to the road without any loss of power, especially when the car is being pushed hard or has less grip on one side. The M xDrive system and the Active M Differential – complete with its integrated M-specific traction control – link up with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to ensure precisely judged interaction for the driving situation at hand. The clear aim here is to produce a supremely dynamic driving experience blending the customary M feeling with noticeably enhanced traction and directional stability.

The M xDrive system uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case for smoothly adjustable, fully variable distribution of drive torque between the front and rear wheels. The multi-plate clutch’s oil supply has been optimised to keep the variable power splitting mechanism performing effectively even under hard driving on the track. The task of transmitting power to the front and rear differentials is handled by driveshafts engineered specifically for the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. The output shafts that relay the drive torque to the wheels are likewise bespoke items. The all-wheel-drive system has a rear-biased setup in classic M style. Normally, the drive power is channelled entirely rearwards, with the front wheels only being brought into play when the rears cannot feed any more power to the road.

The transfer case features a bespoke control unit and integrated wheel slip limitation. This enables it to compensate for any differences in rotational speed between the front and rear wheels exceptionally quickly without having to involve the central DSC management. This results in enhanced all-wheel-drive performance whose principal effect is to further intensify the sense of unshakable poise for which M models are renowned in highly dynamic driving situations, such as powering through corners in a controlled drift.

The improvements in traction, handling stability, agility and dynamism brought about by the combination of M xDrive and Active M Differential also translate into superior sprinting ability. The BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive both need just 3.5 seconds to reach the 100 km/h (62 mph) mark from standstill, making them 0.4 seconds quicker here than their rear-wheel-drive equivalents.

The dynamic transmission of power to the road in the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive takes place via standard M light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear. The forged wheels in twin-spoke design with a Jet Black finish are fitted with tyres measuring 275/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R20 at the rear. Specially designed track tyres with the same dimensions are also available as an option.

Major technical modifications optimise performance characteristics.
The all-wheel-drive technology in the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive is complemented by a double-joint spring strut front axle redesigned for these models and featuring specially adapted front axle geometry and an individually tuned steering ratio. These extensive bespoke modifications for the all-wheel-drive system ensure that both the existing pure rear-wheel-drive variants and their new M xDrive siblings stand out with their engineered-without-compromise, signature M steering characteristics. The all-wheel-drive models additionally benefit from a specially adapted version of the engine oil supply system designed to handle extremely dynamic performance.

Three M xDrive modes enable a customised M feeling.
M xDrive also allows the driver to tailor the all-wheel-drive system’s characteristics and performance to the driving situation and their individual preferences. The desired setting can be selected directly from the Setup menu of the M-specific operating system, where there is a choice of three different power transmission modes. In the default 4WD setting, the all-wheel-drive system offers maximum traction and precisely controllable handling while maintaining a distinctly rear-biased power split at all times. Activating 4WD Sport mode directs an even greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, even in extremely dynamic driving situations, resulting in sharper agility. The linear build-up of lateral forces so characteristic of M models now also makes it possible to execute controlled drifts. Drivers can also switch off the DSC system altogether and engage 2WD mode, where drive power is relayed solely to the rear wheels. If the optional M Traction Control is fitted, traction can be finely adjusted through ten stages in this setting in the same way as on the rear-wheel-drive models. This form of power transmission without any intervention from the chassis control systems to stabilise the vehicle allows seasoned drivers to enjoy a driving experience of remarkable purity and hone their skills with the help of the optional M Drift Analyser.

Drivers can set and store their preferred M xDrive mode as part of the two individual M1 and M2 configurations, together with the settings for engine characteristics, damper response, steering characteristics, braking system and other parameters. Either configuration can then be called up instantly at any time by pressing one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel.

Individual M feeling: six models each with their own character.
By adding two all-wheel-drive model variants to the range, BMW M GmbH now offers an unrivalled variety of high-performance midsize models. The BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 – 9.9 l/100 km [27.7 – 28.5 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 231 – 226 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 – 9.9 l/100 km [27.7 – 28.5 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 231 – 226 g/km in WLTP) offer a unique selling point over their rivals in their combination of rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox. Drive power in the BMW M3 Competition Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Competition Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) is likewise directed to the rear wheels, here via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

This quartet is now joined by the newly arrived BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. This means the latest model generation already spans six vehicles with distinct characters, each providing their own individual recipe for a sublime high-performance sports car offering unrestricted everyday usability. And customers will soon find even greater scope for matching M’s distinctive approach to high-performance driving with their personal style when the new edition of the BMW M4 Convertible joins the model range later this year.

Munich. With yet another new sales record, the BMW M GmbH continued to grow also in the 2020 fiscal year. Despite the effects of the Corona pandemic on the market, it was possible to increase the number of BMW M automobiles sold by 6 percent to 144,218 units. Thanks to this result, the subsidiary company of the BMW Group with the status of an independent company has significantly strengthened its market leadership within the competitive environment first gained in 2019. “The fact that we were able to conclude this exceptionally challenging year with yet a further record is great validation of our consistent growth strategy,” says Markus Flasch, chairman of the board of the BMW M GmbH. “We can be particularly proud of the fact that we were able not only to defend our market dominance as the most successful provider of performance and high-performances automobiles, but also to have even expanded it.”

The further increase in sales figures was due, inter alia, to the successful market launch of the models BMW X5 M (combined fuel consumption: 13.1 – 12.6 l/100 km according to WLTP, 13.0 – 12.8 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 298 – 287 g/km according to WLTP, 296 – 287 g/km according to NEDC) and BMW X6 M (combined fuel consumption: 13.4 – 13.1 l/100 km according to WLTP, 13.1 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 305 – 300 g/km according to WLTP, 301 g/km according to NEDC). With V8 power units delivering up to 460 kW/625 hp, BMW M automobiles from the Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupe segment offer a particularly characteristic high-performance experience. Likewise, the special edition model BMW M2 CS (combined fuel consumption: 10.1 – 9.2 l/100 km according to WLTP, 10.4 – 9.4 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 229 – 210 g/km according to WLTP, 238 – 214 g/km according to NEDC), which serves as the basis for a new competition vehicle from BMW Motorsport, has also received a positive response. In the high-performance model sector alone, it was possible to increase the number of worldwide deliveries by 4 percent vs. the year 2019.

Moreover, it was predominantly the performance automobiles developed for the new BMW 3 Series and the new BMW 4 Series that helped boost the sales of the BMW M GmbH so decisively. With powerful straight six-cylinder petrol and diesel power plants, specific suspension tuning and stand-alone design features, the top-of-the-range offer for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, the BMW 3 Series Touring and the BMW 4 Series Coupe also guarantees that characteristic M experience in the premium mid-range segment, coupled with unrestricted suitability for everyday use and long distances.

Growing demand in all relevant markets.

Technology transferred from motor racing, precisely coordinated features in the areas of drive systems, suspension, aerodynamics, interior design and operation as well as the resulting authentic character of BMW M automobiles, create a fascination, which continued in 2020 to captivate an increasing number of performance-oriented customers throughout the world. For example, in the USA, the most important market for BMW M automobiles, as well as in China, new records were achieved. In both Russia and Korea, it was possible to increase sales by more than 60 percent, and in Italy by 47 percent. And in the UK, too, the number of vehicles delivered exceeded our expectations. “We notice a steadily growing demand in all relevant markets for BMW M automobiles,” explains Thomas Felbermair, head of Sales and Marketing at BMW M GmbH. “Because of this and thanks to the engagement of our strong dealer network, we have been outstandingly successful in coping with the challenges posed by the pandemic.”

Ready to go: BMW M5 CS, BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe.

Looking towards the future, the initial focus shifts to the world premiere of the BMW M5 CS, which will take place in January 2021. A special edition of the BMW M5 will then be available for the first time – with outstanding performance and exclusive motorsport characteristics. Following that, the main focus will be on the market launch of the new BMW M3 Sedan starting in March 2021 (combined fuel consumption: 10.6 – 10.3 l/100 km according to WLTP, 10.8 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 241 – 236 g/km according to WLTP, 248 g/km according to NEDC) and the new BMW M4 Coupe (combined fuel consumption: 10.5 – 10.3 l/100 km according to WLTP, 10.8 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 240 –  235 g/km according to WLTP, 248 g/km according to NEDC). The two high-performance automobiles represent the essence of that unmistakable M feeling. Immediately after their world premiere, the new model generation aroused keen interest around the globe.

In future, the wishes of the M Community will be fulfilled by extraordinary diversity: Each variant with classic manual shift will be complemented by a Competition model featuring an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Moreover, in the summer of 2021, the four-wheel drive system M xDrive will be added for the first time to the drive portfolio for the BMW M3 and the BMW M4. And the BMW M4 Convertible will also be launched in time for the warm season. On the other hand, the first BMW M3 Touring is still undergoing the series development process.

A glance into the future: continued growth, new M feeling through electrification, and an anniversary. 

“It is remarkable that it was possible to achieve the new sales record even before the launch of our most important models,” says Markus Flasch. “The new BMW M3 and BMW M4 generation offers us the promise of dynamic growth in 2021 as well.” Moreover, he now also looks forward to presenting a completely new manifestation of the distinctive M feeling. Electrification will provide the basis for this. During the year 2021, the BMW M GmbH will be presenting an electrically powered performance automobile for the first time.

With this setting of agenda with which the “Power of Choice” strategy has been realised within the model range of the BMW M GmbH, and an exceptionally strong product range, the company is heading full of optimism for the forthcoming anniversary year. 2022 will be the year in which the BMW M GmbH celebrates 50 years of its existence. Markus Flasch has already announced “a year full of surprises”: “If I mention the keyword special edition models, it should be clear what our customers can look forward to during the anniversary year.”

Munich. With numerous innovations in the areas of drive, brake and suspension systems, the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 l/100 km [26.2 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 248 g/km) and the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan and the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km [27.7 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 234 g/km) will soon set new benchmarks in the segment of high-performance sedans and coupes. Their newly developed, straight six-cylinder engines are performance-enhanced vs. the previous generation and provide the basis for this. Two performance levels are available: In addition to a 353 kW/480 hp variant with 6-speed manual shift, each model will also go on sale as a Competition model delivering 375 kW/510 hp and featuring an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The M TwinPower Turbo Technology and the high-revving concept featured by the power units impress with performance characteristics derived directly from motor racing – without restricting the traditionally high level of everyday suitability of BMW M models. In order to emphasise the motor racing DNA of the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé even more, an extensive range of M Performance Parts will also be available at market launch of the two models in March of next year. They facilitate advanced individualisation of the vehicles’ striking design and further enhancement of their dynamic handling qualities. 

The high-quality range of accessories was developed in collaboration with the BMW M GmbH based on experience gained on the world’s racetracks and the extensive know-how of their motorsport specialists. The components, which have been specifically aligned to the character of both the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé, sharpen their extremely sporty appearance even further. Moreover, for the most part, they also fulfil functional requirements in terms of lightweight construction and aerodynamics – thus noticeably enhancing the excellent dynamic characteristics of both high-performance models.

Suspension and sound even more closely linked to motorsport.

A perfect example of how M Performance Parts usually not only further sharpen a car’s looks but also its performance is demonstrated by the M Performance silencer system, titanium. The lightweight exhaust system with flap control, developed specifically for M models and based on experience gained from motor racing, weighs around five kilograms less than the mass-produced component and also provides for an even sportier driving experience thanks to optimised exhaust gas routing. The highly emotionalising sound, which is similar to that experienced in motorsport, has been adapted to the individual driving programs. The four titanium, ceramic-coated tailpipe trims provide for an unmistakeably striking appearance. 

The M Performance sports suspension was developed and tuned on various different racetracks and is also directly associated with motor racing. The coilover suspension permits an infinitely variable reduction of ride height of between five and twenty millimetres (recommended lowering -10 mm vs. the M base model). With unchanged damper adjustment, the driver benefits from a lower centre of gravity, reduced rolling movement and even higher cornering speeds. In addition to increased dynamics, lowering also enhances the sporty looks.

Directly derived from the BMW Motorsport long-distance brake pads, M Performance sports brake pads guarantee shorter braking distances, better response characteristics and high thermal resistance. Drivers in particular who frequently also wish to explore the performance potential of their BMW M3 Sedan or M4 Coupé on the racetrack, will be thrilled, among other things, with the vehicle’s exceptionally dynamic steering behaviour when braking before a bend compared to the standard configuration.

High-tech material carbon sharpens looks even further.

The high-tech material carbon is characterised by a high degree of rigidity and stiffness whilst being extremely light.  Consequently, carbon fibre reinforced plastic is used above all in many areas of motorsport, where visible carbon components fascinate with the mesh structure that is so characteristic of this material. Not least for this reason, M Performance exterior components exude a high degree of motorsport atmosphere – and are perfectly suitable for effectively sharpening the sporty looks of the BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé even further. For example, the M Performance carbon front attachment, the M Performance carbon front splitter and the carbon M Performance Aero Flicks provide for a particularly striking look. Viewed from the side, the M Performance carbon air breathers set an eye-catching accent and M Performance carbon side skirt trims make the vehicle appear longer. At the rear, the M Performance carbon rear winglets and the distinctive M Performance carbon rear spoiler add the perfect finishing touches to the vehicle’s appearance.

All this is topped by the M Performance carbon rear diffuser combined with the M Performance titanium silencer system and the M Performance titanium tailpipe trim module with ceramic coating and black matt finish. The M Performance carbon/titanium tailpipe trims also offer a sporty option for individualising the standard exhaust system of the BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé. The high-performance models can be customised even further with the M Performance Motorsport foiling. The decor set contains adhesive foils for each side in the three BMW M colours blue, red and purple and is tailor-made to match the vehicle geometry. 

Forged wheels in sizes of up to 21 inches and mixed tyres.

At the time of market launch, the range of M Performance Parts for the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé comprises two complete sets of summer wheels. Entry level is the M Performance Y-spoke forged wheel 963M in Frozen Gunmetal Grey with M Performance lettering and mixed tyres, 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. It convinces with its unique geometry and guarantees a high degree of stiffness and low weight as well as reduced air resistance particularly at high speeds. Highlight of the wheel range for the summer is the BMW M Performance cross-spoke forged wheel 1000M in Gold Bronze matt or Jet-Black matt with M Performance lettering. The wheels are available exclusively from M Performance Parts in the sizes 20 inch at the front and 21 inch at the rear.

Perfect traction in winter: snow chain-capable 19-inch wheel set.
M Performance Parts also offers the snow chain-capable, 19-inch double spoke complete winter wheel 829M for safe driving on snow and ice. The rim, which is finished in black matt, is ideal for coping with winter conditions and is particularly easy to clean. We recommend M Performance Tyre Bags for optimal storage and convenient transportation of wheel sets currently not fitted. They are suitable for 17-inch to 22-inch complete wheels, protect them from dirt and guarantee clear allocation of the tyres thanks to their respective markings. Moreover, with their distinctive M Performance design they emit a generous portion of motor racing flair in the home garage.

Carbon and Alcantara enhance motorsport flair in the interior.

Customers are also able to further upgrade the sporty and comfortable interior of their BMW M3 Sedan or BMW M4 Coupé in many ways, both visually and functionally, using motorsport-inspired components from the range of M Performance Parts. As soon as the door is opened, the M Performance doorsill with carbon insert and M Performance coloured lettering conveys unadulterated motor racing flair. Furthermore, thanks to M Performance lettering, a flag with M colours and edging in leather look including decorative stitching in contrasting colours, the perfectly matching M Performance front and rear floor mats convey the extremely dynamic exterior design into the vehicle’s interior. M Performance carbon interior trims also contribute towards this. They inspire with a fascinating combination of open-pored, matt-coated carbon and elegant Alcantara. They are manufactured by hand using a complex process, so each of them is a unique one-off. M Performance Alcantara kneepads on the centre console round off the range of interior features.

The M Performance Pro steering wheel is characterised by the use of the material Alcantara, which is very common in motor racing not least due to its grip properties. Therefore, the pronounced Alcantara gripping area with large thumb rests and special lining offers the driver maximum grip and a highly direct steering feel. Further motorsport-inspired features include the blue centre marker in the 12 o’clock position and a handstitched M seam finished in M colours. In addition to the standard leather-covered steering wheel trim, the optional M Performance steering wheel trim Carbon/Alcantara and, optionally, the M Performance steering wheel Carbon/Leather each with M Performance lettering are available. The M Performance steering wheel can be further upgraded with M Performance carbon shift paddles covered with an open-pored carbon fabric instead of the standard chrome surface.

The M Performance slide set for the BMW LED door projectors guarantees eye-catching effects when entering and exiting the vehicle. When the door is opened, the BMW M logo and other M Performance motifs are projected onto the asphalt. When locking and unlocking the vehicle, the driver is able to experience the M Performance concept both visually and by touch with the M Performance key wallet finished in high-quality Alcantara and boasting a carbon insert. The wallet is firmly connected with the car key by means of a hexagonal head screw in M Light Blue, allowing the key to be easily rotated into the wallet, protecting it from scratches and any other damage.

The M Performance Indoor Car Cover reliably protects the vehicle against soiling and scratches while it is parked in the garage. The cover, which is delivered in a practical carrier bag, is made of elastic, breathable polyester with a soft lining that is gentle on paintwork and is machine washable. The car cover fits snugly to the car body and emphasises various design features such as the double kidney grille, for example, with the coloured M logo and M Performance lettering.

New edition of the pace-setting high-performance sports cars in the premium midsize segment:

• BMW M3 Sedan
• BMW M3 Competition Sedan
• BMW M4 Coupé
• BMW M4 Competition Coupé
  
  

High-performance cars with authentic allure boast cutting-edge racing-car technology and a character profile in the tradition of the original BMW M3 presented 35 years ago. Market launch from March 2021.

New BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé with unequivocally performance-focused vehicle concept. Tuning work conducted alongside testing programme for the BMW M4 GT3 racing car. Familiar M blend of dynamism, agility and precision meets everyday usability and long-distance capability.

Extra variety in the powertrain offering. Authentic performance experience in the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé thanks to six-speed manual gearbox not offered by any rival. BMW M3 Competition Sedan and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. Competition models also available with M xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the first time, est. from summer 2021.

Six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, high‑revving character, maximum 375 kW/510 hp and up to 650 Nm (479 lb-ft). Two turbochargers, optimised direct injection, cooling and oil supply adapted for track use, model-specific exhaust system with electrically operated flaps for emotionally stirring engine soundtrack.

Model-specific six-speed manual gearbox with Gear Shift Assistant for extremely dynamic driving situations. Latest generation of the eight‑speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and three shift programs. M xDrive links up with Active M Differential, rear-wheel-biased setup, three selectable modes: 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD for pure rear‑wheel drive and deactivated stability control.

Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers and M Servotronic steering with variable ratio are fitted as standard. M‑specific front- and rear-axle modifications. New integrated braking system with two settings for pedal feel and response. M Compound brakes as standard, M Carbon ceramic brakes optional.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including M Dynamic Mode and, for the first time, integrated wheel slip limitation and M Traction Control adjustable through ten stages.

Forged M light-alloy wheels – front: 18-inch, rear 19-inch (Competition models with M xDrive – front: 19-inch, rear 20-inch). Performance tyres optional.

Extremely stiff body structure and chassis mounting thanks to measures including model-specific bracing elements for the engine compartment, a front axle subframe with aluminium shear panel, underfloor bracing elements and a rear axle subframe with a rigid connection to the body.

Two body variants with their own individual exterior designs and an emotionally engaging aesthetic. BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé with performance-oriented body features: M-specific version of large, vertical BMW kidney grille, powerfully sculpted wheel arches with eye‑catching M gills, prominent side sill extensions with attachments to the front and rear aprons, carbon-fibre roof with aerodynamically optimised fins, plus rear spoiler and familiar M tailpipe pairs. New, exclusive exterior paint finishes. M Carbon exterior package and BMW M Performance Parts available as options.

Ergonomically optimised sports-car cockpit with M-specific displays and controls. Newly developed M sport seats and fine-grain Merino leather trim with extended features fitted as standard; optionally with seat ventilation. New M Carbon bucket seats with structure-based design available as an option.

M-specific control/operating concept with Setup button for direct access to the settings for the engine, chassis, steering and braking system – and, depending on the model and specification, also M xDrive, Gear Shift Assistant and traction control. Two individually composed overall setups can be activated using M buttons on the steering wheel.

M Mode button enables the intervention thresholds of the driver assistance systems and the displays in the instrument cluster and optional Head-Up Display to be configured individually. ROAD and SPORT settings are available as standard; additional TRACK mode for track driving added when M Drive Professional is specified.

Premiere of M Drive Professional (including M Drift Analyser, M Laptimer and M Traction Control), for a particularly intense performance experience on the race track.

Significantly expanded selection of driver assistance systems. Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Speed Limit Info fitted as standard. Options include Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Navigation, Emergency Lane Assistant, Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant, BMW Drive Recorder and BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific displays.

BMW Live Cockpit Professional with fully digital display grouping, BMW Maps navigation system and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant as standard.

M Race Track Package available for the first time reduces vehicle weight by around 25 kilograms thanks to features including M Carbon ceramic brakes, special M light-alloy wheels and M Carbon bucket seats.

Munich. The BMW M GmbH is currently preparing the generation change for the iconic sports cars. With driving dynamics tests performed under racetrack conditions, the series development process for the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé is entering its crucial phase. With a significant increase in performance vs. the predecessor models and an M-specific suspension setup, newly developed straight six-cylinder engines once again set benchmarks in the segment of high-performance sedans and coupés of the premium midrange class. Comprehensive innovations in the areas of drive, wheel suspension, springs, dampers and braking technology require thorough testing on public roads at the BMW Group testing centres in Miramas, Southern France, in the Swedish town of Arjeplog as well as on a number of different racetracks.

Traditionally, the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring sets the yardstick for the perfect interaction between drive and suspension technology in every situation. However, because the performance characteristics of a BMW M automobile have to convince not only there but also on the most varied racetrack profiles, the test engineers always expand the test programme to include further circuits such as the current test drives with camouflaged prototypes of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé at the Sachsenring.

A few months before their world premiere mid-September 2020, the dynamic potential of the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé is already clearly perceptible. Inspiring agility, outstanding dynamics and precisely controllable handling even in extreme sporting situations characterise their driving behaviour. The balance between superior performance and unrestricted everyday suitability so typical of an M attains a new level. “With each BMW M automobile, we put motorsport technology on the road,” says Markus Flasch, chairman of the board of the BMW M GmbH. “The new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé embody this principle in a particularly intensive way, because both models stand unmistakably in the tradition of the most successful touring car worldwide. And results of the test drives show us that the new model generation is significantly superior to that of its predecessors in terms of performance.”

Like all current high-performance-automobiles from the BMW M GmbH, the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé are offered in two performance levels: Besides a 353 kW/480 hp variant with a 6-speed manual shift, there is also the choice of a Competition model with 375 kW/510 hp and an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. “For customers who prefer a puristic performance experience and particularly intense interaction with their vehicle, the model variants with a manual transmission constitute an offer that is unique in this segment,” explains Dirk Häcker, head of Development M Automobiles and BMW Individual. “On the other hand, with the Competition versions of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé, we are addressing maximum dynamics in regards power development and transfer – initially with classic rear-wheel drive and, at a later date, also in conjunction with the latest version of our four-wheel drive system M xDrive.”

Compared with the predecessor models, the straight six-cylinder engines featured by the new high-performance sports cars deliver a maximum output increase of 36 kW/49 hp and 44 kW/60 hp (Competition models) and a maximum torque of up to 650 Nm. Moreover, thanks to M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving concept, the power plant impresses with performance characteristics derived from motor racing. The power unit excels through extraordinarily spontaneous response in every speed range and is also deployed in the BMW M4 GT3, which will become the new top-of-the-rage model from the BMW M GmbH in the customer sport segment as from the 2022 season. 

With a meticulously operated testing programme, development and testing engineers at the BMW M GmbH are currently making sure that the M-specific suspension components are tuned to the engine’s performance characteristics to such an extent that they guarantee the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé places in the first row of the starting grid in their vehicle segment. The around 3,670-metre stretch at the tradition-steeped Sachsenring, which is known as the long-standing venue of the German Touring Car Masters (DTM) racing series, also offers the ideal prerequisites for this purpose. With its challenging profile comprising hairpin bends, long straights and the downhill passage before the Queckenberg bend, it is possible lap after lap to achieve targeted optimisation of the longitudinal and lateral driving dynamics of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé.

Valencia. The finale at Valencia, Spain, marked the end of a special season for BMW M in MotoGP. 2018 was the 20th season for BMW M as “Official Car of MotoGP”. The BMW M Award for the fastest qualifier is an integral feature of decades of involvement at the top level of motorbike racing. Since 2003, this award has traditionally been handed over at the season finale. One man seems unbeatable in the race to claim the winner’s car: record holder Marc Márquez extended his winning run in the BMW M Award, claiming the sought-after prize for the sixth time running.

This year, Márquez was rewarded for his performances with the BMW M3 CS (combined fuel consumption: 8.5 l/100 km*; combined CO2 emissions: 198 g/km*). The official award ceremony took place on Saturday at the MotoGP finale at Valencia. The car for this year’s winner was handed over to Márquez by Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports, and Markus Flasch, President of BMW M GmbH.

Márquez has already made history several times with the BMW M Award. He won it for the first time in 2013, becoming the first rookie to top the special ranking. In 2015, the Spaniard became the first rider to win the BMW M Award for three consecutive years. He became the exclusive record holder in 2016 with his fourth straight victory. In the current 2018 season, Márquez won the BMW M Award with a total of 341 points, 73 points ahead of his closest challenger Andrea Dovizioso.

By choosing the BMW M3 CS as the BMW M Award winner’s car, BMW M GmbH has provided a real highlight in the anniversary season. It is the most powerful production car from the M3 series to date. It takes just 3.9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. Its powerful M TwinPower turbo inline-six-cylinder engine delivers a performance of 460 hp and a torque of 600 Nm. A 7-speed M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic takes care of the power transmission in the BMW M Award winner’s car. The adaptive M suspension in the BMW M3 CS guarantees the highest dynamic handling right up to the limit. The sporty appearance of the car is highlighted by the paintwork in Frozen Dark Blue, the 19-inch light alloy double-spoke wheels, the full leather, fine-grain Merino bi-colour upholstery, as well as further fittings highlights such as the M steering wheel in Alcantara.

“I can hardly believe that I have won the BMW M Award for the sixth time running,” said Márquez at the award ceremony at Valencia. “One year ago, I announced here that my objective for 2018 was to claim this sixth victory - and I have actually managed it. That makes me very proud. Now I can hardly wait to get behind the wheel of this fantastic BMW M3 CS. I want to thank BMW M GmbH for providing the BMW M Award as an accolade for the fastest qualifier. This shows special appreciation for us as MotoGP riders. The prospect of winning this prize provides even more motivation for us when qualifying starts on Saturdays.”

“We are delighted with the successful partnership with BMW M, which now spans two decades. In BMW M, we have been fortunate to have a strong and reliable partner at our side for 20 years now – and the BMW M Award has long established itself as an integral part of the MotoGP season. After all, we are presenting the award for the 16th time today,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports. “This award is fantastic. Our MotoGP riders produce top performances every time they take to the track for qualifying – and what better way to honour these performances than with an exclusive prize like the BMW M Award? Every year, BMW M GmbH presents outstanding cars to the winners, and the BMW M3 CS continues this tradition. It is no wonder that the prize is so coveted among the riders, and I take my hat off to Marc Márquez. Congratulations on this impressive sixth win in a row.”

“There are hardly enough superlatives to describe Marc Márquez’ successes in the BMW M Award,” said Markus Flasch, President of BMW M GmbH. “He has prevailed regularly against some very strong competition since 2013 and proved just how talented he is as fastest qualifier in the MotoGP. The fact that he has now won the BMW M Award for the sixth time running is more than just impressive. Marc has made history again with this success in our anniversary season as a MotoGP partner. Congratulations on this exceptional performance. We are delighted to hand over this exclusive BMW M3 CS today. This prize is a token of our appreciation for his outstanding performance. I am sure that it will provide him with extreme driving pleasure - just like the winner’s cars of the last five years.”

As with the scoring system for the race, the riders receive points for their positions in qualifying at each Grand Prix weekend. The rider who has picked up the most points at the end of the season wins the coveted BMW M Award, in the form of an exclusive BMW M automobile. The record holder is Marc Márquez, who has now claimed the BMW M Award six times in a row. Valentino Rossi and Casey Stoner each have three wins to their name. Jorge Lorenzo has been honoured as the best qualifier twice to date while Sete Gibernau and Nicky Hayden have each won the award once.

For more information about BMW M GmbH and the involvement as the “Official Car of MotoGP”, see: www.bmw-m.com.  

BMW M GmbH is presenting another exclusive, limited-run special-edition model in the shape of the new BMW M3 CS. With its accentuated sporting presence, the new M3 CS continues the decades-long tradition of successful M special editions which began in 1988 with the E30 BMW M3 Evolution. At the same time, the four-door high-performance sedan serves up a perfect blend of dynamism and everyday practicality.

The 3.0-litre high-performance engine exceeds the output of the M3 with Competition Package by 10 horsepower, raising it to 460 hp. State-of-the-art M TwinPower Turbo technology propels the M3 CS from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.9 seconds. The top speed of the new special edition, which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package, is electronically limited to 280 km/h (174 mph). With its two mono-scroll turbochargers, charge air cooler, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing, the six-cylinder in-line engine takes a clear and consistent aim at the higher echelons of performance, but is equally committed to developing significant torque from low engine speeds and achieving high levels of efficiency. Pushing the new red start/stop button fires up the engine, and the distinctive sound produced by the specially tuned sports exhaust system of the new BMW M3 CS – with its quartet of tailpipes – proceeds to lay on a feast for the ears.

The new BMW M3 CS is equipped as standard with the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic. This cutting-edge transmission has a separate oil cooler and enables both automated gear changes and manual interventions using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. It changes gears in fractions of a second with no interruption in the flow of power, but employs a long seventh gear to keep revs low and minimise fuel consumption over longer motorway journeys.

The suspension of the new BMW M3 CS largely mirrors that of the M3 with Competition Package. The links and wheel carriers at both the front and rear axles are made from forged aluminium and are therefore extremely light. That keeps the unsprung masses low and benefits driving dynamics. The M3 CS is fitted as standard with Adaptive M suspension, whose geometry has been tuned to deliver optimised performance on both the road and track. Ensuring the best possible grip in all driving conditions are the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – which includes M Dynamic Mode – and the Active M Differential. The control systems for the Adaptive M suspension, DSC and Active M Differential have been modified to suit the dynamic requirements of the BMW M3 CS, as has the set-up of the electromechanical steering. The driver has the option of adjusting the steering and suspension settings to their personal preferences or the demands of the route at hand. The special edition’s light-alloy wheels (front: 9 J x 19, rear: 10 J x 20) are very much at home on the race track, fitted as they are (as standard) with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (front: 265/35 R 19, rear: 285/30 R 20). These semi-slick cup tyres, which are also road-legal, provide unbeatable grip and supreme lateral stability at high track speeds. The M3 CS can also be ordered with Michelin Sport road tyres.

Moving inside the new BMW M3 CS, the generous use of two-tone full leather in Silverstone/Black and Alcantara creates a compelling and well-resolved ambience brimming with sporting allure and undeniable class. No M3 CS driver will need to compromise on the nicer things in life. Indeed, among the standard features on board are automatic climate control, a Harman Kardon surround sound system and the Navigation system Professional. True to form, the BMW M GmbH designers have given the new M3 CS looks that reflect the car’s sporting intent. The signature feature of its prominent front end, complete with cutting-edge twin LED headlights, is the front apron with large, three-section air intakes. The Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid has been newly designed specifically for the new M3 CS, and teams up with the front splitter and the rear diffuser to help minimise dynamic lift. These components are made from the lightweight and extremely rigid high-tech material carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), as are the bonnet and roof of the new BMW M3 CS.

Orders for the new BMW M3 CS can be placed from January 2018. The special-edition model – which will be limited to a run of approximately 1,200 units due to production factors – will be built from March 2018.

BMW M GmbH is presenting another exclusive, limited-run special-edition model in the shape of the new BMW M3 CS (fuel consumption combined: 8.3 l/100 km [34.0 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 194 g/km*). With its accentuated sporting presence, the new M3 CS continues the decades-long tradition of successful M special editions which began in 1988 with the E30 BMW M3 Evolution. At the same time, the four-door high-performance sedan serves up a perfect blend of dynamism and everyday practicality.

The 3.0-litre high-performance engine exceeds the output of the M3 with Competition Package by 10 horsepower, raising it to 460 hp. State-of-the-art M TwinPower Turbo technology propels the M3 CS from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.9 seconds. The top speed of the new special edition, which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package, is electronically limited to 280 km/h (174 mph). With its two mono-scroll turbochargers, charge air cooler, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing, the six-cylinder in-line engine takes a clear and consistent aim at the higher echelons of performance, but is equally committed to developing significant torque from low engine speeds and achieving high levels of efficiency (fuel consumption combined: 8.3 l/100 km [34.0 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 194 g/km*). Pushing the new red start/stop button fires up the engine, and the distinctive sound produced by the specially tuned sports exhaust system of the new BMW M3 CS – with its quartet of tailpipes – proceeds to lay on a feast for the ears.

The new BMW M3 CS is equipped as standard with the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic. This cutting-edge transmission has a separate oil cooler and enables both automated gear changes and manual interventions using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. It changes gears in fractions of a second with no interruption in the flow of power, but employs a long seventh gear to keep revs low and minimise fuel consumption over longer motorway journeys.

The suspension of the new BMW M3 CS largely mirrors that of the M3 with Competition Package. The links and wheel carriers at both the front and rear axles are made from forged aluminium and are therefore extremely light. That keeps the unsprung masses low and benefits driving dynamics. The M3 CS is fitted as standard with Adaptive M suspension, whose geometry has been tuned to deliver optimised performance on both the road and track. Ensuring the best possible grip in all driving conditions are the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – which includes M Dynamic Mode – and the Active M Differential. The control systems for the Adaptive M suspension, DSC and Active M Differential have been modified to suit the dynamic requirements of the BMW M3 CS, as has the set-up of the electromechanical steering. The driver has the option of adjusting the steering and suspension settings to their personal preferences or the demands of the route at hand. The special edition’s light-alloy wheels (front: 9 J x 19, rear: 10 J x 20) are very much at home on the race track, fitted as they are (as standard) with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (front: 265/35 R 19, rear: 285/30 R 20). These semi-slick cup tyres, which are also road-legal, provide unbeatable grip and supreme lateral stability at high track speeds. The M3 CS can also be ordered with Michelin Sport road tyres.

Moving inside the new BMW M3 CS, the generous use of two-tone full leather in Silverstone/Black and Alcantara creates a compelling and well-resolved ambience brimming with sporting allure and undeniable class. No M3 CS driver will need to compromise on the nicer things in life. Indeed, among the standard features on board are automatic climate control, a Harman Kardon surround sound system and the Navigation system Professional. True to form, the BMW M GmbH designers have given the new M3 CS looks that reflect the car’s sporting intent. The signature feature of its prominent front end, complete with cutting-edge twin LED headlights, is the front apron with large, three-section air intakes. The Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid has been newly designed specifically for the new M3 CS, and teams up with the front splitter and the rear diffuser to help minimise dynamic lift. These components are made from the lightweight and extremely rigid high-tech material carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), as are the bonnet and roof of the new BMW M3 CS.

Orders for the new BMW M3 CS can be placed from January 2018. The special-edition model – which will be limited to a run of approximately 1,200 units due to production factors – will be built from March 2018.

* Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are provisional, based on the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format specified.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html.

Munich. 2016 marks the 30th anniversary of a motoring icon, one which revolutionised the mid-size sports car segment when its production started in 1986. The very first BMW M3 set a new standard by which other carmakers would be measured – and, five model generations later, are still judged today. BMW Motorsport Division, the precursor to BMW M Division, was incredibly rigorous in its deployment of undiluted motor racing technology in the development of the first-generation BMW M3. Its endeavours produced a thoroughbred high-performance sports car – based on the series-produced BMW 3 Series – that was perfectly suited to daily use. Over the three decades that have followed, BMW M has gently refined its trailblazing and highly successful creation from one generation to the next, while always taking great care to preserve the original character of the M3. The upshot is that there is arguably still no other car that blends such prominently honed motor sport genes and uncompromised everyday practicality into such an emotionally stirring overall package.

The 30th anniversary of the BMW M3 provides an ideal opportunity to look back at four highly intriguing model variants that, for various reasons, never made it past the prototype stage. Four surprise guests will therefore be attending their progenitor’s birthday party: the BMW M3 Pickup from 1986, the BMW M3 Compact from 1996, the BMW M3 Touring from 2000 and the second incarnation of the BMW M3 Pickup unveiled in 2011.

Use in touring car racing was the overriding development objective for the first-generation BMW M3.
The BMW M3 was not an attempt to produce a sporting flagship for a volume-produced model range; instead it originated from the idea of developing a racing car for motor sport that would also be available in a road-going version. The selected category of racing was Group A production touring cars – as seen in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) that had succeeded the German Racing Championship (DRM). The Group A regulations stated that for a racing car to be homologated, at least 5,000 road-legal units had to be sold within 12 months.

Having the chance to develop the production and race versions of the car alongside one another presented the development team with a tremendous opportunity, which they duly capitalised on. The axle kinematics, suspension and damping were all perfectly tailored to the future demands of motor racing, as was the braking system, which combined the standard ABS with inner-vented brake discs at the front and an engine-driven high-pressure pump. Details such as the transmission’s shift pattern with first gear at the bottom left also gave a clear indication of the vehicle’s singular focus on racing.

On top of this came extensive weight-saving measures. While the body with broad wheel arches was manufactured from sheet metal in the traditional manner, the front and rear bumpers along with the side skirts, boot lid and spoiler were made of plastic, reflecting the engineers’ commitment to intelligent lightweight construction. The BMW Motorsport experts tweaked the car’s aerodynamics too, with the C-pillar of the BMW M3 following a slightly shallower angle than the standard body and having a broader base. This allowed the airflow to be directed towards the distinctive rear spoiler more effectively.

Extensive use of high tech in the powertrain, too.
The experts at the Motorsport department used the two-litre four-cylinder engine fitted in series-production models as the basis for the M3’s unit, as the low weight of its construction and its high-revving capabilities meant it had exactly the right ingredients for a racing engine. To transform the well-mannered everyday engine into an athletic performer with sports car credentials, however, they had to subject it to some intensive power therapy.

First, they increased its displacement to 2.3 litres and converted it to a four-valve arrangement. For this purpose, the team employed a suitably modified cylinder head taken from the six-cylinder engine featured in the BMW M1, whose combustion chambers were – conveniently enough – spaced exactly the same distance apart as the four-cylinder unit’s. The crank drive on the BMW M3 was designed to be so rigid that it could handle 10,000 revolutions per minute and more. The standard production car’s rated engine speed of 6,750 rpm therefore left plenty of margin for further evolutions of the motor sport off-shoot.

From sporting machine to heavy-duty transporter: the BMW M3 Pickup (1986).

When the first generation of the BMW M3 was brought out, it wasn’t just customers who were enthralled by its exceptional dynamic abilities. It also caused quite a stir within the BMW Motorsport department responsible for its development, who saw it as the perfect means of transporting work equipment and parts around the premises of what is now BMW M Division in Garching near Munich. The only problem was that goods transport didn’t figure very highly on the list of the first BMW M3’s many talents.

It didn’t take long to remedy the situation, the body of a BMW 3 Series Convertible being transformed into a BMW M3 Pickup. “The convertible bodyshell was chosen as the basis for two reasons,” recalls Jakob Polschak, head of vehicle prototype building and workshops at BMW M Division and an employee at the company for more than 40 years. “Firstly, we happened to have such a model at our disposal and in perfect condition. And secondly, the convertible’s built-in bracing made it the ideal choice for a pickup conversion.”

The first BMW M3 Pickup did not sport the original’s boldly flared wings, as it was equipped with the narrower body of its regular, volume-produced sibling. At first it was powered by the engine fitted in the so-called “Italian M3”, which had a reduced two-litre displacement due to tax regulations there and an output of 192 hp. “Later we switched to the original 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower,” reveals Polschak. The BMW M3 Pickup went about its work around the factory premises reliably for over 26 years before finally being retired four years ago.

The BMW M3 Pickup’s long service life alone is clear evidence that the one-off versions being presented here are not mere gimmicks or engineering exercises. On the contrary, they are high-performance cars that have been optimised to perfectly match their intended task or field of use. As such, they epitomise the philosophy of BMW M. Plus, they also fulfilled another important purpose: “Our apprentices, graduate trainees and placement students assisted in the construction of all of these prototypes,” explains Polschak. “This allowed them to gain invaluable hands-on experience at the same time as freeing up resources for us – a classic win-win situation.”

A starter model for young target groups: the BMW M3 Compact (1996).

The same was also true of the 1996 BMW M3 Compact, of course. The idea behind this model was to present younger customers, in particular, with an entry point into the world of BMW M cars. “To a certain extent, the M3 Compact can be regarded as the forefather of today’s BMW M2,” remarks the BMW M workshop chief with a twinkle in the eye, and it’s easy to see why he draws the comparison. If it had gone into production, the M3 engine’s power would in all likelihood have been lowered somewhat. In the prototype, however, it was allowed to unleash its full 321 hp, which made easy work of propelling a lightweight car (it tipped the scales at just 1.3 tonnes). “It is 150 kilograms lighter, more agile, firmer and even more uncompromising,” enthused German motoring magazine “auto motor und sport” (issue no. 13/1996) after testing it.

A feasibility study under real-world conditions: the BMW M3 Touring (2000).

The BMW M3 Touring prototype likewise materialised because a production model was under consideration. The M3 Compact was made available to journalists for testing in order to both project an image and sound out customer interest. But the M3 Touring served entirely in-house purposes. “This prototype allowed us to show that, from a purely technical standpoint at least, it was possible to integrate an M3 Touring into the ongoing production of the standard BMW 3 Series Touring with very little difficulty,” explains Jakob Polschak. “One important thing we needed to demonstrate was that the rear doors of the standard production model could be reworked to adapt them to the rear wheel arches without the need for new and expensive tools.” Once it had passed through the assembly line, the M3 Touring required only minimal manual follow-up work to fit the M-specific add-on parts and interior details, for example.

History repeats itself: the BMW M3 Pickup (2011).

Once the first-generation BMW M3 Pickup described above eventually started to show the first serious signs of wear after around a quarter of a century of service, it was time for a successor. As with the original, those responsible for its creation again opted for a convertible body due to the existing strengthening elements. “The conversion work had initially proceeded in the usual, largely unspectacular manner during the spring of 2011. But then someone came up with the idea of marketing the vehicle as an April Fools’ joke, as April 1 was just around the corner,” recounts Polschak. To prime the public, spy shots of calibration runs on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit emerged in the run-up to the day, which served to fuel speculation about plans to build a production model.

And it worked. Reports from the time show that a good many journalists and bloggers took the bait and believed the rumours. Even the official press release published on 1 April 2011 did not immediately set matters straight, first presenting the BMW M3 Pickup as the “fourth body variant” following the Sedan, Coupe and Convertible, before going on to say: “309 kW/420 hp under the bonnet and a payload capacity of 450 kilograms over the rear axle take the BMW M models’ hallmark blend of racing-style driving pleasure and everyday practicality to a whole new level.” It also pointed out that the Cd was only marginally higher than that of the BMW M3 Coupe, the car was 50 kilograms lighter than the Convertible and the 20-kilogram targa roof could be removed to further lower the centre of gravity and therefore deliver even sharper handling dynamics.

It wasn’t until the final paragraph that the press release discreetly revealed the model in question was actually a one-off built for use as a workshop transport vehicle. Unlike its predecessor, however, it had also been licensed for road use.

The BMW M3: a sporting icon and dynamic benchmark for five generations.
30 years ago almost to the day production began of the first series-produced BMW M3s. This represented the opening chapter in a story of success which has no equal in the automotive world. The 2.3-litre four-cylinder unit with four-valve technology produced 147 kW/200 hp and accelerated the M3, which weighed just 1,200 kilograms, from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.7 seconds. Top speed was 235 km/h (146 mph). In 1988 the Evo version was unveiled, with power increased once again to 220 hp and its top speed to 243 km/h (151 mph). And this was followed in 1990 by the final development stage of the first-generation M3: the BMW M3 Sport Evolution with 238 hp 2.5-litre engine, produced in a limited run of 600 examples.

The second generation of the BMW M3 – not developed specifically for use in motor sport this time – was a much more understated affair. Unveiled in 1992, its six-cylinder engine developed 210 kW/286 hp from three-litre displacement and peak torque of 320 Newton metres (236 lb-ft). It also featured the innovative new camshaft control system VANOS. The new model set two world records – for the highest output per litre (97 hp/l) and the highest specific torque (108 Nm (80 lb-ft)/l) produced by a volume-produced naturally-aspirated engine.

An extensive facelift in 1995 saw the displacement of the six-cylinder in-line engine increased from 2,990 to 3,201cc, with output rising to 236 kW/321 hp. Added to which, the new engine also employed Double-VANOS, which brings fully variable camshaft control on both the intake and exhaust sides. In summer 1996 the BMW M3 became the first series-produced car to be offered with the option of an SMG automated manual gearbox.

Featuring an aluminium bonnet with powerdome, prominently flared wheel arches, an aerodynamically optimised boot lid with rear spoiler lip and four tailpipes exiting the dual-flow exhaust system, the third-generation BMW M3 unveiled in 2000 cut an extremely eye-catching figure once more. Power again came courtesy of a naturally-aspirated six-cylinder in-line engine. The completely newly developed unit developed output of 252 kW/343 hp from its 3,246 cc and peak torque of 365 Newton metres (269 lb-ft).

Instead of being equipped with a straight-six engine, like the two previous generations of the car, the fourth incarnation of the BMW M3 presented in 2007 was powered by a high-revving, naturally-aspirated V8 developing 309 kW/420 hp. Among the extensive intelligent lightweight design measures employed were the carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof fitted as standard and a front axle made almost entirely from aluminium.

The current (fifth) generation of the BMW M3 was introduced in spring 2014. In keeping with the change in nomenclature for BMW’s series-produced models, only the four-door sedan is badged “M3”, while the coupe and the convertible variants were given the model designation M4. In all three body variants, a free-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and 317 kW/431 hp provides the power. Rigorously applied intelligent lightweight design elements include the extensive use of lightweight materials such as CFRP and aluminium for many chassis and body components. All of which has shaved around 80 kilograms off the weight of its predecessor.

This summer, BMW M Division released an exclusive special-edition model – limited to 500 units worldwide – as a special tribute to the successful 30-year history of the BMW M3. With its Macao Blue metallic exterior paint finish, the BMW M3 “30 Jahre M3” harks back to the first generation of car, for which this colour shade was first offered. The Competition Package, which is included as standard and comprises extensive powertrain and suspension modifications, pushes the engine output of the anniversary model up by 14 kW/19 hp to 331 kW/450 hp.

Munich. With the launch of the first generation of the BMW M3 in 1986, the BMW M GmbH, at that time operating under the name BMW Motorsport GmbH, revolutionized the sporty mid-range segment. No other manufacturer had previously ever deployed genuine motorsports technology so consistently in order to transform a high-volume production model like the BMW 3 Series into a thoroughbred high-performance sports car that is also fully suitable for everyday use. The first BMW M3 set the standard by which other manufacturers were measured.

Meanwhile, BMW M has continuously refined its automotive icon across five model generations. And over all these years the BMW M3 has retained its original character. Probably no other automobile combines distinct racing genes and unrestricted day-to-day suitability into such a highly emotional overall concept. To mark the 30th anniversary of this automotive icon this summer, BMW M is launching the exclusive special edition of the BMW M3 “30 Years M3”, which is limited to 500 cars worldwide.

Edition “30 Years M3” in the legendary colour Macao Blue metallic.
As a tribute to the first generation of the BMW M3, the anniversary edition “30 Years M3” is painted in the exclusive exterior colour Macao Blue metallic, which once celebrated its premiere in BMW’s colour range as a special option for the first generation of the BMW M3.

The edition “30 Years M3” builds on the Competition Package, which is optionally available for the BMW M3 series production model. It comprises an increase in engine output by 14 kW/19 hp to 331 kW/450 hp (BMW M3 “30 Years M3”: combined fuel consumption: 8.8–8.3 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 204–194 g/km). Also included in the Competition Package is the Adaptive M suspension, which has been comprehensively aligned to the increased performance. Optimised features also include new springs, dampers and stabilisers, modified characteristic curves of the three modes Comfort, Sport and Sport+ as well as a correspondingly modified standard Active M differential on the rear axle and Dynamic Stability Control feature (DSC). Moreover, the Competition Package of the edition model includes forged 20-inch M light-alloy wheels with 666 M star spoke design and mixed tyres (front: 265/30 R20, rear: 285/30 R20).

All of these measures lead to a noticeable increase in dynamic performance, which is not least also reflected in enhanced acceleration. The BMW M3 “30 Years M3” with optional 7-speed M double clutch transmission sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds, which is 0.1 seconds faster than the series production model. Even with the standard 6-speed manual transmission, the car completes this sprint 0.1 seconds faster than the production model. 

In terms of exterior design, the Competition Package also includes the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line with enhanced features, including a black chrome tailpipe trim for the M sports exhaust system, the characteristic and potent sound of which contributes significantly towards the highly emotional driving experience. The edition model also features exclusively designed M gills in the front wings bearing the logo “30 Years M3”.

Sporty, functional interior with an exceptionally high-class ambience.
The Competition Package upgrades the interior of the edition “30 Years M3” with specific M sports seats in a skeletal design that combine perfect support with distinct travel comfort over long-distances. Seatbelts with woven-in BMW M strips also enhance the sporty interior ambience.

The logo “30 Years M3” on the front doorsills reminds both driver and front passenger of the BMW M company icon’s unique history. The wording “30 Years M3 1/500” on the carbon fibre interior trim strip of the instrument panel gives indication of the exclusiveness of the BMW M3 “30 Years M3”, which is limited to 500 cars worldwide. “30 Years M3” is embroidered into the front headrests.

The BMW M3 “30 Years M3” features an exclusive full leather Merino trim in bi-colour Black/Fjord Blue or optionally in Black/Silverstone with colour-matching contrast seams that effectively underscore the anniversary model’s sporty and sophisticated character.

Compared with the BMW M3 with Competition Package, the additional cost of the anniversary model is €10,000 in Germany. Market launch is scheduled for the summer of 2016 – this being exactly 30 years after the signing of the first contract for the purchase of a BMW M3. 

1986 – a 3 Series with flared arches and impressive power.
Around six months after BMW had stunned experts with the world premiere of the new BMW M3 at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in the autumn of 1985, the time had finally come: In the spring of 1986, the first automotive journalists were given the opportunity on the racetrack in Mugello to test the “3 Series supercar”, which looked extremely spectacular not just because of its distinctively flared wheel arches. The 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine featuring four-valve technology delivered 147 kW/200 hp. This power unit was an ideal match for the two-door car, which weighed in at only 1,200 kilograms thanks to lightweight construction – the front and rear bumpers, the side sills and the boot lid including spoiler as well as other features were made of plastic. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 235 km/h are still impressive figures even today. 

1988 saw the presentation of the Evo version of the BMW M3, which reached a top speed of 243 km/h thanks to a further enhanced power output of 220 hp. And in 1990, the highest upgrade version of the first model generation was launched to the market – the BMW M3 Sport Evolution, which had a 238 hp, 2.5-litre power unit under the bonnet and was limited to 600 cars.

Impressive proof of engineering skills in the development of the BMW M3 was delivered as early as in 1986 by the catalytic converter versions of the sports car. As the technicians had also given consideration to the use of exhaust gas purification technology right from the beginning of the development phase, each model version lost only 3 kW/5 hp in engine power as a result of being fitted with a catalyst; the effect on driving performance was only marginal.

1992 – from a thoroughbred racing car to an elegant coupe.
Unlike the predecessor, the second generation of the BMW M3, which celebrated its debut in 1992, had not been specifically developed for deployment in motor sports. The significantly more discreet and elegant coupe featured a three-litre, six-cylinder engine with 210 kW/286 hp and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. As a result, the power unit, which was fitted with innovative VANOS camshaft control technology, delivered impressive proof of top-notch engineering skills. With its litre performance (97 hp/l) and specific torque (108 Nm/l), it set two world records for high-volume, naturally aspirated engines. The BMW M3 Coupe sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in exactly six seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

The new BMW M3 stood out through the shape of its exterior mirrors. The aerodynamically optimized, double bridged mirror casings boasting a wing-shaped profile immediately distinguished the car from the series production versions of the BMW 3 Series Coupe. Even today, the distinctively shaped M exterior mirrors serve as one of the most characteristic identifying features of most M models.

In 1994, BMW M supplemented the BMW M3 range with two body variants at the same time. In addition to a convertible, the BMW M3 was also available for the first time as a four-door sedan. Customers were particularly pleased by the fact that the Sedan’s performance equalled that of the Coupe.

In 1995, within the framework of a comprehensive model upgrade, cubic capacity of the straight six-cylinder engine increased from 2,990 to 3,201 cubic centimeters and power output to 236 kW/321 hp. The new engine featured double VANOS, so in addition to a variably adjustable intake camshaft, it also had a synchronously operating exhaust camshaft. The result: In spite of increased power reserves and noticeably improved performance (e.g. 0–100 km/h in 5.5 seconds), the modified BMW M3 was extremely fuel-efficient.  

From the summer of 1996, the BMW M3 became the world’s first high-volume production car to feature an automated manual transmission. The function of the sequential M transmission was racing-oriented: To shift gears up, the driver pulled the shift lever back, and to shift gears down, he or she simply pushed it forward. The system was extremely popular with customers, with almost every second BMW M3 that rolled off the production line at the BMW Regensburg plant at that time being fitted with this SMG transmission. 

2000 – thoroughbred athlete with a self-confident appearance.
The third generation of the BMW M3 sported a bolder look than its predecessor. Thanks to the aluminium bonnet with power dome, the distinctly wider wheel arches, the aerodynamically optimized boot lid including rear spoiler lip as well as the four tailpipes of the dual-flow exhaust system, the Coupe left no room for doubt about its power reserves and dynamics. 

The car was also powered by a straight six-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine. The entirely redeveloped power unit delivered an output of 252 kW/343 hp from a displacement of 3,246 cubic centimetres and a maximum torque of 365 Nm. 5.2 seconds for the sprint to 100 km/h and just 5.4 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in fourth gear – these figures reflect this BMW M3’s performance potential. In the spring of 2001, just a few months after the Coupe, the Convertible made its debut, looking even more muscular with its low, concise waistline.

The BMW M3 CSL on sale from 2003 assumed an exceptional status. On this special model, which was consistently trimmed for lightweight construction – the abbreviation CSL has always been the term used by BMW for Coupe, Sport and Lightweight – an output of 265 kW/360 hp combined with an unladen weight of just 1,385 kilograms, which corresponds to a power-to-weight ratio of 3.85 kg/hp. The weight reduction was achieved not simply by omitting supposedly unnecessary (comfort-related) components, but through the principle of intelligent lightweight construction, i.e. by using the most suitable material in the right place. This included for example the roof made from carbon reinforced plastic (CRP) and the rear window fitted with thin glass. This paid off, as acceleration testifies: 0–100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, 0–200 km/h in 16.8 seconds.

2007 – fourth generation with V8 engine and CRP roof as standard.
Instead of a straight six-cylinder engine featured by the two previous generations, the fourth edition of the BMW M3 had a naturally aspirated V8 engine under its bonnet. The high-revving, four-litre power unit delivered 309 kW/420 hp, weighed only 202 kilograms and was therefore 15 kg lighter than the previously deployed engine. Use of the intelligent lightweight construction concept was also further pursued in other areas. For instance, the BMW M3 Coupe featured as standard a CRP roof, the fibre structure of which remains visible beneath a clear coat. The front axle of the car was made almost entirely of aluminium.

The autumn of 2007 saw the market launch of the four-door version of the BMW M3, which sprinted from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and was therefore only a tenth of a second slower than the Coupe. The Convertible completed the model range just a few months later in the spring of 2008.

2014 – innovative engine technology and consistent lightweight construction.
With the launch of the fifth generation of their top athlete in the spring of 2014, the BMW M GmbH not only presented both the Sedan and the Coupe simultaneously for the first time, but also brought the model designation into line with the new nomenclature of the series models. Thus, the Sedan bears the name BMW M3, the Coupe BMW M4 – like the Convertible that has been available since the autumn of 2014. 

The entirely redeveloped straight six-cylinder engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology and a high-revving concept delivers a maximum output of
317 kW/431 hp and maximum torque of 550 Nm available across a broad engine speed range, thus exceeding the highest amount of torque offered by the previous BMW M3 by almost 40 percent. Fuel consumption and emissions are around 25 percent lower. Both the BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Convertible complete the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds (with optional 7-speed dual clutch transmission). 

In order to attain the highest level of driving dynamics coupled with exceptional fuel efficiency, vehicle weight (with standard equipment) was reduced by around 80 kilograms vs. the previous model. This again was made possible through the consistent implementation of intelligent lightweight construction measures. These include, among others, increased use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre reinforced plastic as well as aluminium for numerous suspension and body components.

  “Happy birthday, BMW M3” – friends and companions congratulate on the car’s 30th birthday.

“I will always have a very special connection to the BMW M3. My father used to drive a black BMW M3. I myself became DTM champion in 2012 driving a matt black BMW Bank M3. All BMW M3 production models have this very special racing character – similar to the new BMW M4. The BMW M GmbH has managed to bring a racetrack feel onto the road. It is not really easy to make such a powerful car so compact and roadworthy like BMW has done with the M3. The BMW M3 is sportiness in its purest form. And it will always stand out in my memories.”
Bruno Spengler, professional racing driver, competing for the BMW Team MTEK in the DTM 2016, DTM champion 2012 in a BMW M3 DTM

“The BMW M3 is a fascinating car – today just as it was 30 years ago. I myself drove the M3 of that time around the racetrack. And compared to our racing cars of today, it was really hard work behind the wheel. During my very first DTM year of 2013, I celebrated victory in a BMW M3 DTM of the modern era. That was a very special moment. And I think the BMW M3 is simply made for creating such special moments.”
Timo Glock, professional racing driver, competing for the BMW Team RMG in the DTM 2016, 91 Formula 1 Grand Prix races between 2004 and 2012

“For very many people – and for me, too – the BMW M3 is a synonym for success on the racetrack. Its motorsport genes were already evident in 1986 and still are to this very day. For me as a racing driver it feels great to also be able to drive such a sporty car off the racetrack. The BMW M3 a legend for good reason.”
Martin Tomczyk, professional racing driver, competing for the BMW Team Schnitzer in the DTM

“The BMW M3 is undoubtedly the most important car in my long career as a racing driver. With this car I won the World Touring Car Championship, the DTM title, the Italian Touring Car Championship and celebrated numerous racing victories all over Europe. From the very first day, the BMW M3 was a winner and it retained this position for decades. Fans love the BMW M3 – and I love it too!”
Roberto Ravaglia, ex professional racing driver, first touring car champion in history (1987), founder of the Team ROAL Motorsport

“The BMW M3 is a true icon. When the car made its racing debut in 1987, it was a winner right from the start, becoming the most successful touring car of all time. Driving this car was always a lot of fun. I experienced so many great moments and celebrated many victories with this car. I developed a really close bond with the BMW M3.”
Johnny Cecotto, ex professional racing driver, 1989 – 1992 10 DTM race victories in a BMW M3, 1990 winner of “24-hour race Spa” in a BMW M3, 1992 winner of “24-hour race on the Nürburgring” in a BMW M3, 1993 ADAC GT Cup winner in a BMW M3 GTR, twice World Motorcycle Champion (1975/1978)

“For me the BMW M3 is simply the best. I believe everybody immediately associates the BMW M3 with the BMW M GmbH, even more than the M1 and the M5. A major part of its fascination is undoubtedly the result of its motor racing career. After all, to this day, the BMW M3 is the world’s most successful touring car. I myself own four BMW M3s from different years, my favourite still being the BMW M3 of the first generation – and this is not only because classic BMWs are my passion, but because I personally think the car’s design is simply the best.”
Felipe Garcia, BMW enthusiast and collector, founder of Mint Classics in Münster, “Bavarian Sports Cars” dealer

BMW has always been synonymous with driving pleasure in all vehicle classes. The fact that customers and fans also agree with this summation is once again confirmed by the readers’ poll conducted by German motoring magazine “sport auto”. Cars from the BMW Group received the top scores in four classes. The BMW 335i was voted the best sedan car up to € 50,000 for the third time in three years. The BMW M3 Sedan was the favorite among readers for the second year in a row in the sedans/estates up to € 100,000 class.

Also for the second time in a row, the BMW M235i took pole position in the category for coupés up to € 50,000. In the compact cars class, the BMW M135i easily succeeded in fighting off the competition. As in the previous year, the BMW M550d xDrive took second place in the diesel class, once again underlining the leading role of the BMW Group as a supplier of vehicles that combine sporty performance with maximum efficiency.

Double victory for M Performance automobiles.
In the compact class and in the coupés up to € 50,000, the BMW M135i (26.7 percent of the votes cast) and the BMW M235i Coupé (38.3 percent of the votes cast) once again beat off the competition. Both vehicles have a six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower turbo technology, ensuring spontaneous responsiveness, an exceptional thirst for revs and outstanding refinement (fuel consumption combined BMW M235i: 8.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 189 g/km; BMW M135i: 8.0 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 188 g/km*).

Triple win for the BMW 335i Sedan.
For the third time in a row, the readers of “sport auto” put the BMW 335i in top place in the sedans up to € 50,000 category. The key factor for the continuing success of the sports sedan is its in-line six-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower turbo technology. The 225 kW/306 hp in-line six-cylinder engine makes particularly impressive play with the typical BMW virtues of instantaneous responses, an exceptional thirst for revs and outstanding refinement. The combination of a turbocharger that operates according to the twin scroll principle with direct high precision injection and VALVETRONIC guarantees an unbeatably efficient balance between driving pleasure and fuel consumption (fuel consumption combined BMW 335i: 7.9 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 186 g/km*).

The defending title-holder BMW M3.

Garnering 39.4% of reader votes, the BMW M3 had no difficulty defending its title as best sedan up to € 100,000, actually managing to increase its share of the vote in its second year on the market. The fifth generation of the BMW M3 (fuel consumption combined: 8.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 204 g/km*) is powered by a newly developed six-cylinder in-line engine. The high-revving unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology offers maximum output of 317 kW/431 hp. Peak torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) is available across a broad rev band and exceeds the maximum offered by the previous BMW M3 by almost 40 percent. A rigorously applied lightweight design concept has brought about a weight reduction of around 80 kilograms. Fuel consumption and emissions are down by 25 percent. The BMW M3 Sedan takes just 4.1 seconds to sprint from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) – when fitted with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission – and also catches the eye as a strong performer out on the track as well as in everyday use.

The “sport auto Award” has been presented by German motoring magazine “sport auto” since 1980. It is one of the leading German awards for sporting cars and is highly coveted by manufacturers. In 2015 a total of 230 models were nominated in 30 series-production categories and a further 10 tuning classes. In this, the 23rd year of the awards, 13,601 readers took part in the poll via survey postcard, online survey or one of the “sport auto” digital channels.

Placings at a glance:

Winner – Compact Cars: BMW M135i.

Winner – Coupés up to € 50,000: BMW M235i Coupé.

Winner – Sedans/Estates up to € 50,000: BMW 335i.

Winner – Sedans/Estates up to € 100,000: BMW M3.

Second place – Diesel Cars: BMW M550d xDrive.

Second place – Convertibles up to € 50,000: BMW M235i Convertible

Second place – Convertibles up to € 100,000: BMW M4 Convertible

Second place – Coupés up to € 100,000: BMW M3 Coupé

Third place – Sedans up to € 100,000: BMW M5 30 Years

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2 emissions und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html. LeitfadenCO2 (GuidelineCO2) (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB).

* Fuel consumption figures were calculated based on the ECE test cycle, dependent on tire format.

Munich. Just a few months after their market launch, the new BMW M3 and the new BMW M4 Coupé have received the "Auto Bild Sports Cars of the Year" award. The readers’ vote organised by the automobile magazine "Auto Bild Sportscars" saw the BMW M3 Sedan win the "Serial Production Sedan Models" class, attracting 30.21 per cent of the votes cast. Meanwhile the BMW M4 Coupé (16.67 per cent) came out on top in the category "Serial Production Coupé Models".

Top performance, driving pleasure and efficiency.
With their votes, magazine readers have impressively underscored the outstanding position of the new M models. The BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé (combined fuel consumption of each: 8.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 204 g/km)* set the benchmark in the segment of high-performance sports cars when it comes to overall concept, precision and agility. They are powered by a newly developed 6-cylinder in-line engine. Fitted with M TwinPower Turbo Technology and high-revving concept, the power unit provides a peak output of 317 kW/431 hp. The maximum torque of 550 Nm is available across a wide engine speed range, exceeding the top level of the predecessor BMW M3 by almost 40 per cent. The weight was reduced by around 80 kilograms by means of a consistent lightweight construction concept, achieving the very highest level of driving dynamics as well as outstanding efficiency. This gives the BMW M4 Coupé a DIN unladen weight of 1,497 kilograms. Fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced by 25 per cent. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé with the optional 7-speed dual clutch transmission take 4.1 seconds for the sprint from zero to 100 km/h as well as offering impressively robust race track capability.

"Auto Bild Sportscars" belongs to the Auto Bild Group, the largest magazine group in the automobile segment in Europe. Readers were able to vote online at "autobild.de" and were given a choice of 143 automobiles in 17 categories. The title "Auto Bild Sports Cars of the Year" was awarded for the 13th time in 2014 and is one of the most important awards for sports-style automobiles in Germany. The award ceremony took place at the "Race Night" as part of the 2014 Essen Motor Show.

* Fuel consumption figures were calculated based on the ECE test cycle, dependent on tyre format.

For further details on official fuel consumption figures, official specific CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at all sales outlets, from Deutschen Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/angebote/verlagsprodukte/leitfaden-kraftstoffverbrauch.html. ManualCO2 (PDF - 2.7 MB)

Munich. BMW combines high performance with a time-honoured brand of driving pleasure and consummate everyday usability – that was the confirmation provided once again by the readers’ poll conducted by German motoring magazine “sport auto”. Five class wins and a second place represented an outstanding return for the BMW Group’s brands in the “sport auto Award 2014”. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe were among the biggest voter favourites, with the two BMW M Division models asserting their superiority in the classes for “Saloons/Estates up to €100,000” and “Coupés up to €100,000” respectively. The winners in the “Coupés up to €50,000” and “Compact Cars” categories also carry an “M” in their model designation – the BMW M235i Coupe and BMW M135i. Elsewhere in the competition, the BMW 335i held sway in the “Saloons/Estates up to €50,000” class, reprising its success from the previous year in impressive style. And second place for the BMW M550d xDrive in the “Diesel Cars” class highlights the BMW Group’s leading status across all classes as a maker of sporting cars boasting exceptional efficiency.

Placings at a glance:
Winner – Compact Cars                                        BMW M135i
Winner – Saloons/Estates up to €50,000              BMW 335i
Winner – Saloons/Estates up to €100,000            BMW M3 Sedan
Winner – Coupés up to €50,000                            BMW M235i Coupe
Winner – Coupés up to €100,000                          BMW M4 Coupe
Second place – Diesel Cars                                  BMW M550d xDrive

BMW M3 and BMW M4 reinforce their elite status.
From the moment they went on sale, the BMW M3 (37.1 percent of the vote) and BMW M4 (18.5 percent) have put forward a persuasive case for themselves – and just a few months after their launch both were voted top of their class by respondents in the “sport auto Award 2014” readers’ survey. The result underlines in resounding fashion the stand-out status of the two new models. Like its predecessors, the fifth-generation BMW M3 encapsulates the combination of motor sport genes and unrestricted everyday usability within an emotionally rich overall concept. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe embody a new take on the high-performance sports car theme and uphold the commitment to implementing the BMW M philosophy espoused by their predecessors. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe (fuel consumption combined for both models: 8.8 l/100 km [32.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 204 g/km)* are powered by a newly developed six-cylinder in-line engine. The high-revving unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology offers maximum output of 317 kW/431 hp. Peak torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) is available across a broad rev band and exceeds the maximum offered by the previous BMW M3 by almost 40 percent. A rigorously applied lightweight design concept has brought about a weight reduction of around 80 kilograms, giving the BMW M4 Coupe a DIN kerb weight of 1,497 kilograms and ensuring top-class driving dynamics and excellent efficiency. Fuel consumption and emissions, meanwhile, are down by 25 percent. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe need just 4.1 seconds to sprint from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) – when fitted with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission – and also catch the eye as strong performers out on the track.

A good showing for M Performance Automobiles
The BMW M235i Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 8.1 l/100 km [34.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 189 g/km)* with 240 kW/326 hp – likewise launched this year – also impressed the readers. A 36.5 percent share of the vote and first place in the category for coupés up to €50,000 represented a dream start for the new model series. The BMW M135i rounded off an excellent showing by the M Performance Automobiles with victory in the “Compact Cars” class (27.1 percent of the votes). Like the BMW M235i, the BMW M135i (fuel consumption combined: 8.0 l/100 km [35.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 188 g/km)* is also powered by a six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology that displays instantaneous responses, an exceptional thirst for revs and outstanding refinement.

The BMW 335i staged a repeat of its success from last year in the class for saloons/estates up to €50,000. This year 31.7 percent of readers voted the 335i top of the pile, allowing it to continue the tradition established by its predecessor – which was voted the most sporting car in its class three years in succession.

The “sport auto Award” is presented annually by German motoring magazine “sport auto”. It is one of the leading German awards for sporting cars and is highly coveted by manufacturers. 2014 marked the 34th year that the magazine’s readers have been called on to vote, with 234 models nominated in 15 series-production categories and 10 tuning classes. A total of 15,551 readers took part in the poll (which ran from 17 April to 18 July) via survey postcard, online survey or one of the “sport auto” digital channels.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2 emissions und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html. LeitfadenCO2 (GuidelineCO2) (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB)

Please find attached the specifications of the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupe, valid from 03/2014.

The “M4” badge is a reference to the model series that provides the basis for the new M model – and, for the first time, the Coupe will be introduced at the same time as the four-door variant. Logic dictates the latter will be christened the BMW M3 Sedan.

“Four generations of the BMW M3 have blended motor sport genes and uncompromised everyday usability within an emotionally rich overall concept,” explains Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President BMW M GmbH. “The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe represent an ongoing commitment to this philosophy. The engine is the heart of every M model, and the new turbocharged six-cylinder unit fitted in the two new cars combines the virtues of a high-revving naturally aspirated unit with the strengths of turbocharger technology. A committed lightweight design concept produces a weight saving of around 80 kilograms over the outgoing M3. The BMW M3 and BMW M4 take motor sport technology from the track to the road, and thousands of laps of the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife – the world’s most exacting race track – have readied the new models for that transition. Meticulous and passion-fuelled development work has underpinned the creation of two high-performance sports cars that set new standards in terms of overall concept, precision and agility.”

The new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW

M4 Coupe:

Innovative engine technology and a focus

on lightweight design.

The launch of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe sees

BMW M GmbH revealing an all-new interpretation of the high-performance

sports car – and carrying the BMW M philosophy over into the fifth generation

of the M3. More than 40,000 examples of the fourth-generation BMW M3

Coupe were built, and now the BMW M4 Coupe is poised to continue this

history of success. The “M4” badge is a reference to the model series that

provides the basis for the new M model. And for the first time, the Coupe will

be introduced at the same time as the four-door variant, which logic dictates

will be christened the BMW M3.

“Four generations of the BMW M3 have blended motor sport genes and

uncompromised everyday usability within an emotionally rich overall concept;”

explains Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President BMW M GmbH. “The BMW M3

Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe represent an ongoing commitment to this

philosophy. The engine is the heart of every M model, and the example fitted

in the two new cars combines the virtues of a high-revving naturally aspirated

unit with the strengths of turbocharger technology. An all-embracing

lightweight design concept keeps the cars’ weight to just under 1,500

kilograms. The BMW M3 and BMW M4 take motor sport technology from the

track to the road, and thousands of laps of the legendary Nürburgring

Nordschleife – the world’s most demanding race track – have readied the new

models for that transition. Meticulous and passion-fuelled development work

has underpinned the creation of two high-performance sports cars that set

new standards in terms of overall concept, precision and agility.”

The high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo

technology newly developed for the new BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4

Coupe produces maximum output of approximately 430 hp. Its peak torque

soars far beyond 500 Newton metres (369 lb-ft), outstripping the figures

recorded by the outgoing BMW M3 by well over 30 per cent. And yet the

engine also achieves a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of around

25 per cent. The weight of the cars has been reduced to just under 1,500

kilograms, which helps to ensure outstanding driving dynamics and

exceptional efficiency.

Munich. Fresh from a clean sweep of German Touring Car Masters (DTM) titles in 2012, the BMW M3 has continued to power from one victory to the next again this season. And the race-spec car is sure to be involved in a good deal more exciting action before the season concludes this autumn. The series-produced model, however, is already on the finishing straight as BMW M GmbH announces the end of production for the fourth generation of the BMW M3 Coupe. The high-performance sports car which spawned the championship-winning DTM racer is set to end its career on the road with more than 40,000 examples having left the factory. Indeed, the BMW M3 Coupe will be drawing a line under an extraordinary run on the world’s car markets. The BMW M3 Convertible, likewise powered by a high-revving V8 engine, will continue in production until September 2013.

The BMW M3 has epitomised the direct transfer of racing expertise to the road since 1986. And the latest generation of the high-performance sports car succeeded in adding another sprinkling of fascinating new chapters to its model history – from innovative technology yielding even more intense driving pleasure to BMW’s highly successful comeback in the DTM. With its athletic design, an overall package pieced together with hallmark M precision, and top-class performance capability, the BMW M3 enjoyed immense popularity around the world. Production of the BMW M3 Coupe – launched in 2007 – exceeded 40,000 units, and the BMW M3 Sedan added almost 10,000 units to the total. Just under 16,000 units of the BMW M3 Convertible have been built to date.

The most important shared feature of the three body variants is their powertrain and chassis technology, derived directly from motor sport. The 4.0-litre V8 engine, developed exclusively for the BMW M3, has cylinder banks positioned at a 90-degree angle to one another. It develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp, generates peak torque of 400 Newton metres (295 lb-ft) and revs to a maximum 8,400 rpm. Like the engine’s high-revving character, numerous construction details, such as the electronically controlled individual throttle butterflies, ion current knock control and dynamically optimised oil supply, were taken straight from motor racing. Alongside its instantaneous responsiveness, the colossal power delivery of the naturally aspirated engine – maintained at a constant level into the upper reaches of the rev range – is its defining feature. The BMW M3’s engine won the 3.0 to 4.0-litre class of the International Engine of the Year Award five times in succession.

The transfer of technology from race track to road also shapes the character of the car’s other powertrain and chassis components. A lightweight chassis developed specifically for the M3 – complete with a front axle secured to the body by an aluminium stiffening plate and a five-link rear axle with hollow-tube anti-roll bar and forged aluminium axle control arms – teams up with a rack-and-pinion steering system with M-specific Servotronic and the variable M differential lock to provide precisely controlled transfer of power to the road in any situation. The BMW M3 was fitted as standard with a high-performance compound braking system and could also be specified as an option with the three-mode Electronic Damper Control system. Another impressively innovative option introduced for the fourth-generation BMW M3 was M DCT Drivelogic. The first double-clutch transmission for series-produced vehicles to be set up specifically to suit the performance characteristics of a high-revving engine opens the door to extraordinarily dynamic acceleration with no interruption in the flow of power.

The fourth-generation BMW M3 was a trailblazer in its class when it came to intelligent lightweight construction. Playing a prominent role alongside the aluminium bonnet and plastic front side panels in lowering the weight of the Coupe’s body was its carbon roof. The use of this high-tech material on the scale achieved with the BMW M3 represented another important step for the
BMW Group towards the industrial manufacture of carbon body components.

During the six years or so of BMW M3 production, the USA, Great Britain and Germany grew into its most important sales markets. In 2010 the Coupe also became a work of art when US artist Jeff Koons transformed the BMW M3 GT2 endurance racer into the 17th member of the BMW Art Car series. Koons’ creation was unveiled in early June 2010 at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, before lining up in the Le Mans 24-hour race two weeks later. The BMW M3 GT2 added another rash of victories to the BMW M3’s exceptional record of success, including five titles in the American Le Mans series and victory in the Nürburgring 24-hour race.

The fourth-generation BMW M3 was produced at the BMW plant in Regensburg alongside the BMW 3 Series Sedan, Coupe and Convertible. Its V8 engine was supplied by the BMW engine factory in Munich, where specific production processes on the special engine assembly line ensured the high-performance unit would be marked by excellent quality and reliability.

Among the highlights of the BMW M3’s production run were the exclusive small-series variants of the car introduced over its lifetime, which brought its race-inspired characteristics even further to the fore. The BMW M3 GTS, for example, was developed as a road-legal clubsport-oriented model. The displacement of its V8 engine was increased to 4.4 litres, enabling maximum output of 331 kW/450 hp. Bespoke chassis components and aerodynamic measures, plus a two-seat cockpit designed for racing use, prepared this exclusive special-edition model for competitive race action on the track and ensured it offered a super-intense M experience on the road. 135 examples of the BMW M3 GTS were delivered to customers.

The BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) joined the fray in 2011 in a limited run of 67 units. Based on the BMW M3 Sedan and built at the BMW M GmbH factory, the BMW M3 CRT boasted exclusively manufactured lightweight components, a 331 kW/450 hp version of the V8 engine and modified chassis technology – all of which was a recipe for exceptionally precise handling balance. An innovative carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) manufacturing process was employed in the construction of the BMW M3 CRT. Its bonnet was made from two CFRP mouldings encasing an aramid honeycomb structure. This construction gave the bonnet the strength of a conventional steel equivalent, but at roughly a quarter of its weight. The bucket seats of the BMW M3 CRT were made from two CFRP layers wrapped around a recycled-paper honeycomb, and a carbon layer made using conventional production technology was added to visible areas. A rear spoiler and an air-channelling element integrated into the front apron (both made from CFRP) rounded off the exclusive lightweight elements found on the BMW M3 CRT.

BMW M GmbH celebrated the triple success of BMW’s DTM comeback – the drivers’, team and manufacturers’ titles were all won with the BMW M3 – with a limited-run special-edition model: 54 examples of the BMW M3 DTM Champion Edition would leave the factory, one for each DTM race victory notched up by BMW between 1987 and 2012.

Munich. BMW Motorsport returned to the DTM in 2012 after almost 20 years away, and the results in its comeback year exceeded all expectations. Canadian driver Bruno Spengler won the drivers’ title, BMW Team Schnitzer finished in top spot in the team standings, and BMW claimed the manufacturers’ honours.

BMW M GmbH is celebrating this success with the unveiling of the BMW M3 DTM Champion Edition. Mimicking the looks of Spengler’s racing car, this special-edition model is available exclusively in Frozen Black metallic, while the carbon flaps and gurney, various dark chrome elements, matt black wheels and sections of the race car’s livery also betray its close links with the triumphant BMW M3 DTM. The theme is continued by the BMW M stripe design over the CFRP roof and boot lid, BMW M logo to the rear of the front wheel arches and decals in the rear side windows.
Inside the car, the door sill strips replicate Spengler’s helmet design and the carbon-fibre interior trim strip bears the newly crowned champion’s signature and the car’s serial number.
The special-edition model also contains various exclusive interior additions, such as the Alcantara® steering wheel, handbrake lever embroidered with “M Power” lettering, and extended black Novillo leather trim with features in contrasting Palladium Silver.

Technical elements like the Competition package, M Drive, M DCT Drivelogic and the M Driver’s Package underline the car’s focus on high performance. Equipment including the Professional navigation system, heated seats and Park Distance Control add more “everyday” ingredients to the model.

BMW M is also offering the 54 new custodians of the BMW M3 DTM Champion Edition – which will be available in various international markets – a very special extra. Owners of this automotive rarity will have the chance to attend the BMW M Fascination Nordschleife driver training course under the watchful eye of Bruno Spengler. One of the most coveted elements of the BMW Driving Experience programme, the course is held on the Nürburgring’s legendary Nordschleife track, where BMW M cars are put through extremely exacting testing sessions and final chassis tuning is carried out.

The BMW M3 DTM Champion Edition will be built at BMW’s Regensburg plant and the BMW M GmbH factory from February 2013. Prices in Germany start from €99,000.00 including VAT.

Four award-winners spanning a displacement range of 1.6 to 4.0 litres – BMW Group again emerges as the most successful auto manufacturer in the internationally renowned engine contest.

Munich / Stuttgart. Unbeaten titleholders and triumphant newcomers have secured the BMW Group’s renewed pre-eminence at the 2012 International Engine of the Year Awards. Powerplants guaranteeing efficient power delivery in current BMW and MINI models topped no fewer than four out of eight displacement categories. The quartet of trophy-winners comprised two four-cylinder engines, a straight-six and an eight-cylinder. Scooping up best-in-class wins were the 1.6-litre turbo unit of the MINI Cooper S, the four-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology that drives the new BMW 328i, among others, the straight-six with M TwinPower Turbo of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, and the V8 under the bonnet of the BMW M3. This year’s winners were selected by an international panel of judges made up of 76 motoring journalists from 36 countries. The Engine of the Year Awards were presented against the backdrop of the Engine Expo trade fair in Stuttgart.

With these latest accolades, the BMW Group continues its winning streak in the world’s foremost engine competition. Thanks to the Group’s outstanding development expertise in this area, it has managed to notch up more than 50 class and overall wins at the International Engine of the Year Awards since 1999. In 2012, yet again, engines of widely differing design created for BMW and MINI models dominated a large number of displacement categories. Moreover, the latest title-winners span an unusually broad output spectrum ranging from 135 kW/184 hp to 309 kW/420 hp.

The 2012 competition saw the prize in the 1.4-litre to 1.8-litre displacement class handed to the engine that drives the MINI Cooper S, in a reprise of its success last year. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder develops peak output of 135 kW/184 hp with the help of a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct petrol injection and variable valve control based on the BMW-patented VALVETRONIC technology. Among the key attributes of this unit are not only its eager power delivery but also exemplary efficiency for its class.

Likewise providing enhanced driving pleasure coupled with extremely low fuel consumption and emission figures is the new 2.0-litre engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The 180 kW/245 hp four-cylinder turbocharged unit with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC instantly won over the judges to capture the trophy in the 1.8-litre to 2.0-litre category. This engine is currently powering the new BMW 328i Sedan, BMW 528i and BMW Z4 sDrive28i, as well as the BMW X3 xDrive28i and BMW X1 xDrive28i models.

The top accolade in the 2.5-litre to 3.0-litre class went to a six-cylinder in-line engine whose technology has already wowed the judges several times previously. Both in 2007 and in 2008, this 3.0-litre powerplant with twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection and Double-VANOS took the overall prize in the Engine of the Year Awards. It serves as the basis for both the M TwinPower Turbo unit inside the BMW 1 Series M Coupe and the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is. Delivering 250 kW/340 hp, this thrillingly high-revving straight-six has reached its highest output level. The upshot is truly outstanding performance that has garnered it a further Engine of the Year Award.

An achievement of this calibre is only exceeded by the string of successes claimed by the fourth BMW Group award-winner in 2012. For the fifth time in a row, the V8 engine of the BMW M3 high-performance sports car provides the measure of all things in the 3.0-litre to 4.0-litre displacement class. Bolstering the undiminished appeal of the 4.0-litre naturally aspirated engine are its hallmark M high-revving concept, peak output of 309 kW/420 hp and outstanding thrust. Beyond this, the eight-cylinder is compelling for its remarkable efficiency thanks to the Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration and other Efficient Dynamics technologies.

Munich/Nürburg.BMW M GmbH will use the M Night event in the lead-up to the Nürburgring 24-hour race to unveil a spectacular new addition to its model range. The BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) embodies a concentrated blend of state-of-the-art development expertise – inspired directly by motor sport – in the areas of drive system and chassis technology and intelligent lightweight design. It also represents the worldwide debut of a new production process for carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) components in the automotive industry. This process allows CFRP to be introduced widely in the construction of the high-performance BMW M3 Saloon-based sports car created by the BMW M GmbH factory. And that helps it achieve a weight-to-power ratio of 3.5 kilograms per horsepower. A V8 engine with customary M high-revving characteristics and maximum output of 331 kW/450 hp accelerates the BMW M3 CRT from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.

The BMW M3 CRT will be produced by the BMW M GmbH factory in a limited run of 67 units. Following in the tyre tracks of the BMW M3 GTS – of which 135 examples were produced – this is the second small-series, high-performance M3 off-shoot to be bred for the race track but registered for the road. The exclusive character of the Saloon is emphasised by bespoke lightweight design components manufactured as part of an innovative production process. The bonnet of the BMW M3 CRT and the bucket seats for the driver and front passenger are made from a cellular carbon honeycomb, which is produced in a globally unique process pioneered for the manufacture of body components for the BMW i3 and BMW i8 models.

Innovative manufacturing process for lightweight CFRP components.

These new models – due to enter volume production in 2013 and equipped with innovative electric and BMW ActiveHybrid drive system technology – will feature a body consisting entirely of CFRP in the passenger cell area. In a new development, the production process introduced for this purpose enables the cuttings left behind in the construction of the body to be reprocessed. The basic material (made up of carbon fibre thread) can now be woven into CFRP mats of any size before being impregnated with synthetic resin and hardened in a similar way to the material used in the body of the BMW i3 and BMW i8. For the BMW M3 CRT this allows the creation of a bonnet made from two CFRP mouldings encasing an aramid honeycomb structure. This construction imbues the bonnet with the strength of a conventional steel equivalent, but at roughly a quarter of its weight. The weight saving over the aluminium bonnet of the standard BMW M3 Saloon is around 50 per cent.

The material produced through this innovative manufacturing technology is also used for the car’s bucket seats. Here, the CFRP layers are wrapped around a recycled-paper honeycomb, with a carbon layer made using conventional production technology added to visible areas. CFRP is also used to make both the rear spoiler of the BMW M3 CRT and an air-channelling element integrated into its front apron.

This innovative manufacturing process opens up considerable potential for increased use of CFRP in series-produced cars as a means of lowering weight. The BMW Group is leading the way in this area of automotive construction, while BMW M GmbH can call on extensive racing expertise when it comes to intelligent lightweight design. The BMW M3 CRT is the latest in a fine tradition of highly exclusive high-performance sports cars optimised with the help of lightweight design. This lineage stretches back to the BMW 3.0 CSL of the 1970s and reached another high point in 2002 with the BMW M3 CSL. BMW M GmbH also broke new ground with the use of CFRP in series-produced vehicles; like the BMW M6 produced up to 2010, the current BMW M3 Coupé comes as standard with a roof made from carbon-fibre reinforced plastic.

Significant weight reduction despite generous standard equipment.

The low-weight construction of the BMW M3 CRT is enhanced by sound-proofing configured specially for the new variant and a sports exhaust system with an extremely lightweight titanium muffler. Also unique to the CRT are the two individual rear seats, which take their cues from the lateral support-enhancing contours of the front seats.

Included in the standard specification of the BMW M3 CRT are the M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic, Navigation system Professional, BMW Individual High End audio system, a light, exterior mirror and luggage area package, an alarm system and Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear of the car. Despite this extremely generous selection of standard kit, its DIN unladen weight of 1,580 kg undercuts that of the standard BMW M3 Saloon by around 45 kg. When you take into account the equipment on board the weight saving is more like 70 kg. Added to which, cleverly reducing the load at the front of the car raises the proportion of the car’s weight over the rear axle to 48.4 per cent, which has an extremely positive effect on agility.

High-revving V8 engine with extra power; M DCT Drivelogic.

Under the CFRP bonnet of the BMW M3 CRT lies a variant of the V8 engine developed exclusively for the BMW M3 with further increased displacement, output and maximum torque. The high-revving unit provides the linear power delivery you expect from an M car and a highly responsive performance profile honed by the demands of the race track. Tuned for the BMW M3 GTS, the eight-cylinder engine develops 331 kW/450 hp from its 4,360 cc displacement. Maximum output is reached at 8,300 rpm, and the driver will find peak torque of 440 Newton metres on tap at 3,750 rpm. Helping to give the engine its intoxicating performance is wizardry derived directly from motor sport, including a bedplate crankcase construction in a special aluminium-silicon alloy, individual throttle butterflies, a knock control system with ion current technology and a dynamically-optimised wet sump oil supply.

Transferring the engine’s power to the rear wheels is the M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic developed for the BMW M3. The seven-speed M DCT Drivelogic unit also works according to a principle developed in motor sport, allowing an uninterrupted flow of power through gear changes to deliver extremely dynamic acceleration. Its shift characteristics have been tuned specially for the engine powering the BMW M3 CRT. Shift paddles on the steering wheel allow the driver to change gear manually with optimum ergonomics. And a Launch Control function is on hand to generate maximum acceleration off the start line.

Special chassis construction with race-bred technology.

Expertise from race competition also makes its presence felt in the chassis technology of the BMW M3 CRT. The BMW M3 Saloon’s front and rear axle construction has been enhanced by a rigid rear axle subframe and coilover suspension whose dampers are individually adjustable in their compression and rebound. The six-piston, fixed-calliper high-performance brakes of the BMW M3 CRT boast a low-weight compound construction. The vented brake discs measure 378 x 32 millimetres at the front axle and 380 x 28 millimetres at the rear. The new M3 variant also uses Stahlflex brake lines and model-specific comfort brake pads.

The specially tuned DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – including ABS and M Dynamic Mode (MDM) – responds to both the greater dynamic potential of the BMW M3 CRT and its optimised axle load distribution. Meanwhile, the 245/35 R 19 front tyres and 265/35 R 19 rears (fitted on 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design) ensure the engine’s acceleration and braking power is transferred to the road with maximum impact. The electronic engine management of the BMW M3 CRT caps its top speed at 290 km/h.

The exclusive Frozen Polar Silver metallic exterior paint shade in combination with Melbourne Red metallic applications and special treatment for the BMW kidney grille also help to set the BMW M3 CRT apart from the standard M3. Inside, the Saloon comes with likewise exclusive door sill strips, door panels and trim strips in aluminium grain structure. Completing the distinctive ambience inside the high-performance Saloon are the Alcantara-covered M steering wheel, which has an M Drive button allowing the driver to call up his preferred set-up instantly, and special Sakhir Orange and Black bi-colour covers for the front and individual rear seats.

Munich. Following the BMW M3 Coupé, BMW M3 Convertible and
BMW M3 Sedan, a fourth body variant of this globally successful high-performance sports car is about to cause a stir. Under the strictest secrecy, the world’s first high-performance pickup has been created at the BMW M GmbH development centre. The sportiest example by far in this vehicle category, the BMW M3 Pickup will fire the imaginations of all motorists with a deep appreciation of top performance matched by a keen practical bent. 309 kW/420 hp under the bonnet and a rear-axle load capacity of up to 450 kilos take the hallmark
BMW M relationship between race-oriented driving pleasure and everyday utility to an entirely new level. This unique vehicle has already completed extensive test and set-up drives on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife in advance of its global unveiling on 1 April 2011.

With this vehicle, BMW M GmbH once again furnishes evidence of its exceptional competence in developing and building high-grade, individual dream cars. With a high-revving V8 engine at the front, a generously sized load area behind and a removable Targa roof above, driver and passengers in the BMW M3 Pickup will relish an unprecedented take on the familiar M feeling. Yet this spectacular new development is unmistakably recognisable as a member of the BMW M3 model family. Corroborating this kinship are not just the inimitable power of the engine, but also fine-tuned aerodynamics and a tailored suspension set-up. Measurements in the wind tunnel at the BMW Group’s Aerodynamic Test Centre showed a Cd factor on a par with that of the BMW M3 Coupé. Like every
BMW M model, the BMW M3 Pickup has also demonstrated its dynamic potential on the North Loop of the Nürburgring. Official lap times have not yet been released, but the needle in the dial vouched for a top speed of 300 km/h.

The kerb weight of the world’s fastest pickup undercuts that of the
BMW M3 Convertible by around 50 kilograms. Removing the Targa roof shaves off a further 20 kg while at the same time lowering the car’s centre of gravity. This most unusual experience of top-down driving pleasure in a BMW M3 thus goes hand in hand with further optimised dynamic handling.

The practical features of the BMW M3 Pickup are no less impressive. Maximum load capacity has been raised to 450 kilograms. The load bed of the
BMW M3 Pickup is clad in high-grade structured aluminium sheeting and provides the biggest cargo capacity ever offered on a BMW M vehicle. In terms of the unit of measurement generally applied to premium automobiles, that gives the loading area of the BMW M3 Pickup the capacity to carry up to 20 standard 46-inch golf bags. What’s more, the BMW M3 Pickup is the first BMW M3 variant in the
25-year-plus history of this model range to come with a trailer tow hitch.

Notwithstanding these unquestionable stand-out qualities, the BMW M3 Pickup will not be heading for the golf course or series development, but will retain its status as an exclusive one-off. It is earmarked for use as a workshop transport vehicle for BMW M GmbH. With this in mind, the current BMW M3 Pickup – unlike a similar predecessor built back in the 1980s – has gone through the requisite procedures to earn its road certification. Which makes it officially a truck – but one that puts a whole new spin on the meaning of the word. 

The anticipation began in August 1985. That summer Germany’s automobile magazines built up their readers’ expectations for the fastest 3 Series BMW of all times. The key data revealed a sports car that would punch way above its class: 200 hp, top speed in excess of 230 km/h, sprint from a standing start to 100 km/h inside 6.7 seconds. However, the story was that “the most dynamic BMW 3 Series drivers” would have to wait until mid-1986. The pundits were right on that count. But one prediction missed the mark by a mile: anyone who “wants to be in the A Team needs to be turbocharged under the bonnet”. Not true.

The BMW M3 became the most successful touring car in motor-sport history. The M3 project was launched just a few months earlier. Production of the M1 mid-engine sports car had already been discontinued for some time and BMW CEO Eberhard Kuenheim commissioned a design for a successor, almost as an aside, according to legend. After one of his regular visits to Motorsport GmbH in Munich’s Preußenstraße he said, almost as he was leaving: “Mr. Rosche, we need a sporty engine for the 3 Series.” His aspiration was in good hands. Motorsport GmbH with its managing director of technical development Paul Rosche had demonstrated its expertise with the legendary 5 Series saloons driven by M engines as well as developing the Formula 1 turbo engine that powered Brazilian Nelson Piquet to win the World Championship in the Brabham BMW in 1983.

The new 3 Series engine had something in common with this: the crankcase. It originated from volume production and actually formed the basis for the two-litre engine with four cylinders. Four cylinders meant less weight and high torque, an ideal platform for a sports engine in the projected displacement class. Naturally enough, the series four-cylinder engine was much too tame for a sports engine. A comprehensive power boost was called for in order to turn the plucky daily workhorse into an athletic and sporty power unit. The BMW design engineers increased the displacement to 2.3 litres and applied a formulation that had already achieved significant successes over a period of many years: four-valve engineering. There was also another reason for the decision to opt for a four-cylinder engine and not adopt the six-cylinder engine introduced in the BMW 3 Series. The longer crankshaft in the big engine started to vibrate much earlier than the shorter four-cylinder shaft. The design engineers therefore designed the crankshaft drive of the BMW M3 with sufficient torsional stability to achieve 10,000 revolutions a minute and more. By comparison with the four-cylinder engine installed in the series vehicles, this represented an increase of more than 60 percent. The rated speed for the road version of the BMW M3 was still significantly below the critical range at 6,750/min and therefore offered sufficient scope for further developments.

Paul Rosche recalls: “We started work immediately. One advantage was that the big six-cylinder engine originally had the same cylinder gap as the four-cylinder engine. We therefore cut two combustion chambers off the four-cylinder head of the M88 and bolted a panel over the hole on the rear side.” This meant that the new four-cylinder engine had a second forebear. The six-cylinder engine that had initially created a sensation in the M1 and had meanwhile transformed the M635CSi into one of the fastest coupés in the world. Paul Rosche: “Whether you believe it or not – we had created an outstanding four-cylinder engine for the 3 Series within the space of two weeks. Under the development name S14, this engine was to generate headlines in sport and in volume production over the years to come. One Sunday, I drove to von Kuenheim’s flat and gave him the car for a test drive. When he came back he said: ‘Good, I like it.’ And that’s how the M3 came into being." 

Munich. The history of BMW M3 motor sport has been enriched by a further fascinating chapter as the BMW M3 GTS celebrates its debut on the racetrack and on the road. In terms of performance and safety, the most powerful version of the high-performance BMW M3 Coupe featuring a 331 kW/450 bhp engine offers the ideal preconditions for use at club sport events, whilst at the same time being officially road-legal. The BMW M3 GTS is produced at the BMW M GmbH manufacturing facility. In addition to a larger and more powerful V8 engine, exclusive tuning of the 7-speed M Dual Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic and modified suspension technology, the car, which is designed for club sport use, has also been specifically optimised with regard to aerodynamics and lightweight construction.

The supreme sporting potential of the BMW M3 GTS is underlined, inter alia, by a power-to-weight ratio that has been lowered to 3.4 kg per hp. Featuring a transmission and suspension configuration which has been optimised for the racetrack, the BMW M3 GTS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 4.4 seconds. The car reaches the 1000 metre mark from a standstill in just 22.5 seconds. Top speed is 305 km/h.

“The BMW M3 is an icon and internationally synonymous with the highest level of dynamics,” explains Dr. Kay Segler, CEO of the BMW M GmbH. “Our aim was to develop a model variant that would prove its outstanding potential both on the road and at club sport racing events. The BMW M3 GTS is pure M feeling, embodying the brand values in a highly concentrated form.”

Tradition and future: The BMW M3 in motor sports.

 For as long as two decades and four model generations, the BMW M3 has been the embodiment of spectacular motor sports successes. The number of victories and titles achieved in touring car sports has never been matched by any other model. With its precisely balanced overall concept, the latest BMW M3 also provides the ideal basis for outstanding performance on the racetrack. The BMW M3 GT2 is currently causing quite a stir at long-distance motor sports events. The BMW M3 is also playing a predominant role in preparing the brand’s comeback at the “German Touring Car Masters”. Parallel to this, BMW is currently setting new standards in the support of club motor sports. The many decades of experience in the development of racing cars and high-performance, road-going automobiles are reflected in the high performance potential of the BMW M3 GTS.

High-revving V8 engine technology at its best: Larger displacement, higher performance and higher torque.

The power required for high performance in motor sports is delivered by an
8-cylinder engine featuring a high-revving concept. With its unparalleled enormous pulling force, which is constantly available over a very wide engine speed range, the V8 engine developed exclusively for the BMW M3 by the BMW M GmbH features refined performance characteristics that are closely oriented towards the requirements of motor sports. A version of this power unit with further increased displacement, power output and maximum torque was exclusively conceived for the BMW M3 GTS.

The increase in displacement from 3,999 to 4,361 cc is achieved by a cylinder stroke that has been extended from 75,2 to 82 mm. In the enlarged combustion chamber, a maximum power output of 331 kW/450 bhp (BMW M3: 309 kW/420 bhp) is delivered at 8,300 rpm. Maximum torque has been increased by 40 Nm to 440 Nm and is available at an engine speed of 3,750 rpm.

Characteristic constructional features derived from motor sports, which include, inter alia, the crankcase designed as a bedplate construction and made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy, individual throttles, knock sensors featuring ionic-current technology and a dynamically optimised wet-sump oil supply have been adopted from the original power unit. The lightweight sports exhaust system developed for the BMW M3 GTS with model-specific primary catalytic converters and titanium rear silencers ensure optimum exhaust flow.

Transmission of power is effected by means of the M Dual Clutch Drivelogic gearbox developed for the BMW M3. This 7-speed transmission operates according to a principle also developed for motor sports and permits gear shifting without interruption of traction for extremely dynamic acceleration. Its gear shift characteristics have been exclusively tuned to the modified engine featured by the BMW M3 GTS.

High-performance suspension with adjustable racetrack set-up.

The car’s suspension technology also derived from motor racing is based on the front and rear axle construction featured by the BMW M3 Coupe. Contrary to that, the BMW M3 GTS features a rigid rear-axle support as well as a coilover suspension, the dampers of which are independently variable in the traction and compression travel. Moreover, camber on the front and rear axles and vehicle height are variable for motor racing purposes. The car is lowered by 16 mm at the front and 12 mm at the rear.

The high-performance brake system featured on the BMW M3 GTS has been designed as a fixed-calliper construction and comprises six pistons on each of the front wheels and four pistons on each rear wheel. Compared to the BMW M3, the brake discs are 18 mm larger in diameter at the front and 30 mm larger in diameter at the rear. Furthermore, steel-armoured hoses are used.

Specific tuning of the stability control function DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), including ABS and the M Dynamic Mode (MDM), make allowances for the increased dynamic potential of the BMW M3 GTS. Optimum transfer not only of acceleration torque but also of the brake torque is also guaranteed by mixed tyres on matt black, 19-inch M light alloy wheels featuring a Y-spoke design.

Aerodynamics: Optimised components with variable adjustment.

 In order to optimise air stream and for on-demand adaptation of downforce characteristics, the BMW M3 GTS is fitted with motor racing-oriented front apron and rear wing elements. They offer the possibility to adapt the car’s aerodynamic characteristics according to the racetrack profile and other basic club motor sport requirements. The air duct elements in the front apron are also variable, as is the position of the rear wing. The tail assembly is based on the corresponding component featured by the BMW 320si in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC).

The BMW M3 GTS can be recognised from the outside by its bright orange single-coloured body. Additional model-specific features are the matt black exterior components such as the BMW kidney grille, roof trims and alloy wheels as well as the side gill elements made of dark anodised chrome. In addition to the standard CFRP roof on the BMW M3 and titanium rear silencers, an exceptionally light construction of the centre console and door panels, the use of polycarbonate side windows at the rear and a polycarbonate rear window, dispensing with seats in the rear compartment and acoustic insulation configured specifically for the vehicle all serve to guarantee weight optimisation. The unloaded weight of the BMW M3 GTS according to DIN is 1,530 kg including roll bar and M Dual Clutch Drivelogic transmission (BMW M3: 1,600 kg). Automatic climate control and audio system supplied as standard comfort features in the BMW M3 can be fitted if the customer desires.

The interior of the BMW M3 GTS reflects a predominant focus on optimum performance and the highest level of safety on the racetrack. The range of equipment includes thoroughbred racing bucket sets, carbon interior trims and an Alcantara® M steering wheel. Door and sidewall linings in the rear compartment are also made of Alcantara®. The BMW M3 GTS is equipped as standard with a roll bar fitted behind the B-pillars. Furthermore, the car body offers fastening points for six-point safety seat belts and an optional extension for the roll cage. The car is fitted with three-point automatic seatbelts for road use. Additionally supplied six-point safety seat belts for driver and front seat passenger and a fire extinguisher complete the range of equipment.

Please find attached the specifications of the BMW M3 (Sedan, Coupé, Convertible), 03/2010.

Please find attached the specifications of the BMW M3 (Sedan, Coupé, Convertible), 03/2010.

Munich. More driving pleasure, reduced emissions: this principle of the development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics applies equally at the very highest level of performance. As of spring 2010, the high-performance model BMW M3 consistently combines its outstanding driving performance figures with further reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. The range of BMW EfficientDynamics measures fitted as standard in the models BMW M3 Coupé, BMW M3 Convertible and BMW M3 Sedan is now to be supplemented with the Auto Start Stop Function. This reduces the average fuel consumption and CO2 levels of the BMW M3 by up to 8 per cent or 24 grams of CO2 per kilometre. In order to further hone the outstandingly sporty profile of the model there will also be a Competition Package available as of spring 2010.

The range of driver assistance systems optionally available for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M will also be extended in spring 2010. Both models can now be fitted with the functions Side View and Speed Limit Info. The remainder of the BMW M GmbH portfolio will likewise feature new offers. Directly at the market launch of the new BMW X5, a newly configured M Sports Package will be available for the Sports Activity Vehicle. The new BMW 3 Series Coupé and the new BMW 3 Series Convertible can also be upgraded from the start with an M Sports Package. An M Sports Package, also designed for the specific model in question, is part of the equipment range of the BMW 3 Series Sedan and the BMW 3 Series Touring in the Edition Sport. For the launch of the Z4 sDrive35, the M Sports Package for the BMW Z4 is offered for all the other versions of the roadster, too. The BMW Individual range will also be further refined. Especially exclusive equipment options are already available at the market launch, also for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan.

Auto Start Stop Function for the BMW M3 - for the first time in conjunction with a dual clutch transmission.

The BMW M3 achieves its outstanding performance with impressive efficiency. Its 4.0 litre V8 high-revving engine mobilises 309 kW/420 bhp, enabling superior acceleration response due to its unique propulsion. In addition to its fascinating performance characteristics, the 8-cylinder engine - developed exclusively for the BMW M3 - is characterised by an unusually high degree of efficiency. Additional efficiency potential is now tapped into with the Auto Start Stop Function. This helps the drive avoid idling phases when stopping at junctions or in congested traffic. In order to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption the engine is switched off when the vehicle comes to a halt. As soon as the driver wishes to continue driving, the engine is re-activated without delay.

The Auto Start Stop Function is used both in vehicles with standard 6-speed manual transmission and in conjunction with the M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic. The BMW M3 is thus the first model - along with the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 - to use this efficiency-enhancing measure in combination with an automated manual transmission.

The increase in efficiency brought about by the Auto Start Stop Function is up to 8 per cent of 24 grams of CO2 per kilometre, depending on the model and transmission type. For example, the BMW M3 Coupé with 7-speed M dual clutch transmission and Drivelogic powered by a V8 high-revving engine with 309 kW/420 bhp now achieves an average fuel consumption on the EU test cycle of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres (6-speed manual transmission: 12.4 litres). The same figures apply to the BMW M3 Sedan. In the case of the BMW M3 Convertible, the average fuel consumption is reduced to 11.5 litres (M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic) or 12.7 litres (6-speed manual transmission) per 100 kilometres. All versions of the BMW M3 will also meet the exhaust emission norm EU5 in future.

Modified rear lights with glass covers in a homogeneous red colour provide an additional visual accentuation in the BMW M3 Coupé and the BMW M3 Convertible. With two harmoniously illuminating light banks fed by LED units, they create a characteristic nocturnal design.

New for the BMW M3: Competition Package and retrofit options.

The Competition Package, available for the Coupé and the Sedan, and the retrofit options from the range of Original BMW Accessories specially developed for the M3 are just two possible ways of individualising the sports car. With a suspension lowered by some 10 mm and light alloy wheels in the size 9 x 19 inches at the front and Y-spoke design at the rear, the Competition Package provides further optimised longitudinal and transverse dynamics. In addition, the control of the electronic damper adjustment function EDC including a Sport mode specially developed for the Competition Package has been precisely adjusted to the chassis modifications by means of map-based control and the driving stability control function DSC.

The new range of items from the Original BMW Accessories program available for the BMW M3 provides an even more intense driving experience. Retrofit options designed for this model are specifically geared towards increasing dynamic performance and driving pleasure. For example a rear spoiler and front apron flaps in carbon will be available from spring 2010. As well as perfectly matching the Competition Package the aerodynamically optimised components further reduce lift force, thereby increasing the driving dynamics potential of the BMW M3.

Innovative driver assistance systems for the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M.

Additional equipment options are also available for the models BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M as of spring 2010. The two top sports cars in the segment of the BMW X models can now be fitted with such features as the driver assistance systems Side View and Speed Limit Info. The Side View system comprises two cameras integrated in the side of the front bumpers, which means that intersecting traffic can be observed. The images from these cameras are shown on the Control Display of the operating system iDrive, providing an advance view of the road situation to the left and right of the vehicle when coming out of blind exits such as narrow driveways or multi-storey car parks, for example. Speed Limit Info gives the driver the possibility of finding out about speed restrictions on the current route. Here, a camera is installed on the windscreen in the area of the interior mirror which permanently monitors signs at the roadside as well as the variable displays on overhead gantries on motorways, comparing this information with the data from the navigation system. The figure thus obtained is displayed by means of a symbol on the instrument panel or in the Head-Up Display, as required.

Newly designed rear lights with especially narrow bands of light in the reversing lamps provide an enhanced sense of width in the BMW X5 M. Their homogeneously luminous light banks fed by LED also create a nocturnal design which is characteristic of the brand. They are now also fitted with dynamic LED brake lights which flash in the event of particularly intense deceleration, thereby providing a warning signal for drivers to the rear.

M Sport Package for the new BMW X5.

At the 2010 Geneva Automobile Salon the M Sport Package will also be presented for the new BMW X5. It offers ideal ways of experiencing the enhanced sporty qualities of this Sports Activity Vehicle even more intensely and expressing these strikingly in terms of design. The M Sport Package is made up of exterior, interior and chassis components which underscore the dynamic potential of the BMW X5. Larger air inlets in the front apron give the vehicle a particularly powerful appearance. A high-speed set-up and sporty suspension settings emphasise the dynamic character of the vehicle, as do the 19-inch M light alloy rims in V-spoke design. As an alternative, M light alloy wheels in 20-inch format are optionally available, either in two colours or in burnished finish. In both instances, a special mixed tyre selection is used on the front and rear axle which is designed specially for the BMW X5. Even in the 6-cylinder versions, the tailpipes of the exhaust system bear the contours characteristic of V8 engines.

In addition to the M Aerodynamics Package and the M entry strips, the BMW Individual Exterior Line in satinised aluminium design for the surrounds of the side windows and the BMW Individual roof railing in high gloss Shadow Line ensure an unmistakable visual appearance. In the interior, sports seats for driver and passenger, the M leather steering wheel, M driver footrest, the interior strips in fine lengthwise brushed aluminium design and the anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner optimise the driving experience in the BMW X5.

Stylish and exclusive: new BMW Individual options.

Supplements to the BMW Individual product portfolio round off the list of new items in the range of BMW M GmbH. For the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, too, there is the option to add an unmistakable touch with stylish and exclusive options from the BMW Individual program directly at the market launch. The range specially developed for the Sedan includes the BMW Individual high gloss Shadow Line, the BMW Individual Exterior Line in satinised aluminium design, an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner and BMW Individual reading lights at the rear.

The new BMW Individual paint finish Frozen Grey will be available for all models of the BMW 6 Series. The surrounds of the monitors of the optional rear entertainment systems for the BMW 7 Series are now available in a finish which matches the colour of the BMW Individual full leather trim. What is more, the side rear monitor panels can be covered with BMW Individual Merino leather if requested specifically by the customer. The long version of the BMW 7 Series can be additionally fitted with fold-out tables integrated in the backs of the driver and front passenger seats. The storage surfaces for the fold-out tables available for the long version of the BMW 7 Series can be covered in soft nappa leather or in BMW Individual leather on request, thus offering additional comfort in the use of external entertainment or communication devices. As well as enhancing the overall travel experience, this also extends the range of functions of the luxury sedan when used as a mobile office.

With the current new items in its model program and the further extended product range, BMW M GmbH has created an ideal basis for the continuation of its successful business development. Enthusiasm for exclusive high-performance vehicles in the premium segment continues unabated in automobile markets throughout the world. Current sales figures indicate a dynamic start to the year 2010 for BMW M GmbH. 1,146 BMW M automobiles were sold worldwide in January 2010 alone. This is an increase of 7 per cent over the previous year. “The new models BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M have made a key contribution to this positive trend,” explains Dr. Kay Segler, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW M GmbH. "With their very successful launch they have even made up for the end of the production cycle of the BMW M5 Sedan, which has been one of the cornerstones of BMW M automobile sales up to now.” Particularly significant sales increases were achieved in January 2010 in the European markets of Germany, the UK and the Netherlands, as well as in China, Australia, South Africa and the Middle East.

BMW M GmbH is a 100 per cent subsidiary of BMW AG. With its products and services in the four business areas of BMW M Automobiles, BMW Individual, M Sports Packages and Options and BMW Group Driving Experience, it is geared towards customers with particularly high aspirations in terms of the performance, exclusivity and individual style of their vehicle. Based in Munich, the company was founded in 1972 as BMW Motorsport GmbH. Since then, the letter M has become synonymous all over the world for success in motor racing and for the fascination of high-performance sports cars which can be used for everyday driving. The production of BMW M automobiles is integrated in the manufacturing processes of the BMW plants. BMW M GmbH has the status of an independent automobile manufacturer.

In the financial year 2009, BMW M GmbH achieved worldwide sales of over 15,000 vehicles. BMW M GmbH currently employs a workforce of some 500 in the areas of development, administration and sales.

Munich. BMW M GmbH now offers a truly outstanding performer based on the BMW M3 Coupé also ideal for Clubsport events – exactly the right car for the truly discerning customer demanding the very utmost in terms of power and performance. The BMW M3 GTS is largely hand-built by the most skilled craftsmen at BMW M GmbH as a perfectly harmonised package of outstanding modifications, with production exclusively to the customer’s personal order. Focused on motorsport, the modifications comprise both the drivetrain, the suspension and the body of the car, as well as its interior. Market launch of the

BMW M3 GTS will be in spring 2010.

Offering this truly exclusive model for the genuine motorsport enthusiast, BMW M GmbH is continuing a great tradition introduced on former generations of the BMW M3. Once again, the outstanding sports potential of the BMW M3 is being consistently enhanced and upgraded to an even higher level, the customer benefiting from the Company’s wide range of know-how in the development and production of racing cars. Through its race-oriented modifications enhancing both performance and safety, the BMW M3 GTS is ready to go in Clubsport events on the track and comes with the option for homologation on the road. So that the driver is able to make his way to the race track in the very same car he will use for racing.       

Consistent lightweight technology.

 Consistent lightweight construction, adjustable aerodynamic units, an increase in engine size and output on the V8 high-speed power unit and suspension technology meeting all the requirements of motorsport – all this gives the BMW M3 GTS a top position among high-performance cars built for Clubsport racing. Unladen weight according to the DIN standard is less than 1,500 kg (3,300 lb), the lightweight body comes with special mounts for six-point seat belts and a rollcage fitted behind the B-pillar.         

Through its design and construction, the materials used and its special equipment, the BMW M3 GTS is a lightweight performer all the way, offering a genuine motorsport driving experience in every respect. In addition to the carbon fibre roof already featured as standard on the BMW M3, weight is consistently optimised by features such as silencers made of titanium, the extra-light centre console and door linings, the omission of rear seats, automatic air conditioning and an audio system, as well as sound insulation tailored specifically to this very special model.

V8 high-speed power unit: derived from motorsport, optimised for motorsport.     

 The eight-cylinder power unit of the BMW M3 GTS enlarged in size to 4.4 litres and boosted in output to some 450 hp boasts construction principles and technical details carried over directly from motorsport. A supreme surge of ongoing power throughout a wide range of engine speed characterises the outstanding performance of the V8 with its high-speed concept. The features typical of a motorsport engine include the crankcase made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy and constructed in bedplate design, individual throttle butterflies, anti-knock sensors with ion flow technology, and, wet sump oil supply optimised for supreme driving dynamics. 

Seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic with race-bred gearshift.            

 Power is transmitted in the BMW M3 GTS by the M double-clutch gearbox with Drivelogic also available as an option on the regular production model. This seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic gearbox follows a principle also developed for motorsport, shifting gears without the slightest interruption of engine power. The transmission was developed specifically for a particularly powerful high-speed engine and offers ideal qualities for truly dynamic acceleration at all times. The gearshift characteristics on the seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic have been tailored specifically to the modified power unit of the BMW M3 GTS and the driver is able to shift gears both through the selector lever on the centre console and through special M shift paddles on the steering wheel.     

High-performance suspension with purpose-built brakes.

 To convey the supreme power of the engine to the road in equally supreme style even under the most extreme conditions, the BMW M3 GTS comes with suspension technology likewise derived from the highest realms of motorsport. While the suspension is based on the front and rear axle of the BMW M3 Coupé, the rear axle subframe is bolted firmly in position and the suspension features adjustment threads on the dampers for individual variation of the inbound and rebound strokes.

The high-performance brake system of the BMW M3 GTS features fixed callipers with six pistons up front and four pistons on the rear wheels. The race-oriented set-up of DSC Dynamic Stability Control naturally considers the supreme dynamic potential of the BMW M3 GTS. Different-sized tyres front and rear running on 19-inch M light-alloy Competition rims in double-spoke design ensure optimum transmission of acceleration and brake forces to the road.             

Aerodynamics: optimised components with variable geometry.

 To optimise the flow of air and adjust the car’s downforce as required, the BMW M3 GTS comes with a race-oriented front air dam and rear wing. This allows appropriate adjustment of the car’s aerodynamic qualities in motorsport and for other purposes, tailored to the specific profile of the respective track. The air guidance units on the front air dam, for example, may be varied in their geometry, just like the position of the rear wing based on the wing already featured on the BMW 320si raced in the WTCC World Touring Car Championship.

Exterior features such as the BMW kidney grille and the gills at the side finished in chrome on the regular BMW M3 come in special dark eloxy-plated chrome on the BMW M3 GTS.

Special interior for supreme performance and safety.              

 The interior of the BMW M3 GTS clearly reflects the focus on supreme performance and safety on the race track. The interior features include classic bucket seats, interior trim in carbon and an M steering wheel finished in alcantara. The door and side panels at the rear also come in alcantara, while six-point seat belts delivered with the car for subsequent use, a fire extinguisher and preparation for an emergency-off switch in motorsport round off the wide range of special features inside the car.

For questions, please contact:

Dirk Arnold, Head of Product Communications BMW Automobiles

Phone: +59 89 382 12325, Fax +49 89 382 20626

Stefan Behr, Product Communications BMW Automobiles

Phone: +49 89 382 51376, Fax: +49 89 382 20626

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

Fourth generation M3 to feature 4.0-litre V8 and 420 hp output Dubai,
UAE. The new BMW M3 Sedan and Convertible will mark its debut in the
region in May, BMW Group Middle East confirmed today. The powerful
Sedan and Convertible features a highly tuned 4.0-litre V8, the first
for an M3, and produces an astonishing 420 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque at
8,400rpm. The M3 propels from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, up to an
electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. "BMW has raised its
performance benchmark with the introduction of the 2008 M3 Sedan and
Convertible setting new standards while remaining first and foremost a
BMW M3 in its character," said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW
Group Middle East. "The M3 Sedan is a car developed and built
with the mission to convey the most demanding motorsport technology to
everyday traffic, offering unique sheer driving pleasure in the
process. "We expect a very high level of interest for the M3 Sedan
and Convertible similar to the excellent response we received for the
Coupé version last year. The new M3 is nothing short of
spectacular, which is a reflection of the previous generation's
popularity in the region. We are confident that the M3 will enjoy the
same success story of its predecessors," continued Horton. The M3
Sedan is also a grand tourer, with space for up to five occupants, and
owes its supreme driving dynamics to the new eight-cylinder power unit
which, through its high engine speed concept alone, offers all the DNA
of the current BMW Sauber F1 power unit. The new Variable M
Differential Lock generates up to 100 per cent locking action with
fully variable action whenever required thus ensuring optimum traction
on all road surfaces. The Variable M Differential Lock responds to
differences in speed between the right and left rear wheel, a solution
ideally supplementing the positive qualities of rear-wheel drive.
Safety is also a major element of the M3 Sedan, with a variety of
systems integrated in the vehicle, ranging from Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC), ABS anti-lock brakes, ASC Automatic Stability Control,
CBC Cornering Brake Control, as well as six airbags, belt latch
tensioners and belt force limiters.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - March 18, 2008... BMW will give the Big Apple a
glimpse into what the future of pure driving pleasure looks like as its
all-new 2008 M3 Convertible and Concept CS vehicles make their North
American debuts at the 2008 New York International Auto Show in
Manhattan on March 19. "BMW is excited to present the North
American debuts of the 2008 M3 Convertible and the Concept CS at the
New York International Auto Show," said Tom Purves, President and
CEO, BMWNA. "The cars round out several new production and
concept vehicles introduced by BMW over the past few months, which not
only exemplify our dedication to providing the ultimate driving
machines, but also give some insight into future innovations."
Arriving this spring, the all-new 2008 M3 Convertible shares the M3
Coupe and Sedan's high-revving 414-horsepower engine, and just as its
counterparts, will feature the first V8 in a series-production BMW M3.
The introduction of the Convertible also marks the debut of BMW's
optional M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic (M DCT
Drivelogic)-a unique 7-speed double clutch transmission specially
designed for a high-rpm engine (6-speed manual transmission is
standard). The M3 Convertible will also feature driver-adjustable
settings for crucial dynamic controls encompassing throttle response,
steering, damping and stability (with an available
steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the
preferences) and a sumptuous interior which can be optimized to the
driver's desires including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation
system operated through BMW's latest iDrive controller. BMW will also
present the North American debut of its Concept CS, the German
automaker's vision of a unique four-door car that combines the
exclusivity of a genuine luxury Grand Turismo with the fascinating
thrill of a high-performance sports car. Inside and out, the concept
vehicle provides a new definition of powerful and expressive design,
utilizing materials of the highest quality while combining stylish
luxury with the most uncompromising ambience, full of class and value.
In addition to BMW's latest vehicle lineup, its stand will also feature
the following recently debuted vehicles: * 2008 X6 Sports Activity
Coupe - The world's first Sports Activity Coupe, combining the sporting
elegance of a large BMW Coupe with the powerful presence of a BMW X
model. With two variants, both with Twin Turbo and direct injection,
the X6 xDrive35i (3.0 inline six-cylinder engine, 300 hp, 300 lb.-ft
torque) will be available in May and the X6 xDrive50i (4.4 V8 engine,
400 hp, 450lb.-ft torque) this summer. * 2008 1 Series Coupe and
Convertible - Inspired by its iconic 2002 models of some 40 years ago,
the BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible represent the core BMW
philosophies of pure performance and premium design. Both available in
128i (3.0 inline six-cylinder engine, 230 hp, 200 lb.-ft. torque) and
135i (3.0 inline six-cylinder engine, 300 hp, 300 lb.-ft torque)
versions, the Coupe will go on sale in March; the Convertible will go
on sale in time for summer. * 335d Advanced Diesel vehicle - Marking a
significant milestone in the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, this fall
BMW will release two vehicle models equipped with BMW Advanced Diesel
with BluePerformance-the X5 xDrive35d and 335d. Successfully meeting
the strict exhaust emissions requirements of the North American
automobile market, the vehicles will be available in all 50 states and
on average, offer 25 percent less fuel consumption than equally
powerful gasoline engines. * 2008 M3 Coupe and Sedan - Featuring the
first V8 in a series-production BMW M3 just as their roofless sibling,
the all-new 2008 BMW M3 Coupe and M3 Sedan arrive in March 2008.
Fourth in the line of vehicles that set the standard in minimizing any
compromises between race-inspired performance and luxury and
convenience, the 2008 BMW M3 Coupe, Sedan and Convertible each offer new
possibilities to experience uncompromising driving dynamics. BMW Group
in America BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United
States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing
vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to
include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the
BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and
the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial
design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and
various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing
Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing
network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 models and
X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and the upcoming X6 Sport Activity Coupe.
The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through
networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 82 MINI passenger car
dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp.,
the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South
America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. Information about
BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at:
www.bmwgroupna.com www.bmwusa.com www.bmwmotorradusa.com www.miniusa.com
www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com # # # Journalist note:
Information about the BMW Group and its products is available to
journalists on-line at the BMW Group PressClub at the following address:
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en Broadcast quality video footage is available
via The NewsMarket at www.thenewsmarket.com. # # #

The BMW M3 model family is being upgraded by yet another fascinating
player: The new BMW M3 Convertible, the third body version of BMW's
high-performance sports car following the Coupé and Saloon,
offers new possibilities to experience uncompromising driving dynamics.
Third body version of the new BMW M3; high-performance convertible from
BMW M GmbH unique in its design and technical features; developed on
the basis of the BMW 3 Series Convertible; consistent orientation to
the high-performance character typical of BMW M, as with the BMW M3
Coupé and the BMW M3 Saloon. Car concept with a consistent,
unique tradition: Fourth generation of both the BMW M3 Convertible and
the BMW M3 Coupé. Unique combination of outstanding driving
dynamics with aesthetic looks, unparalleled experience of open-air
motoring and superior everyday driving qualities in that special
combination specific to BMW M. Electrohydraulically operated
retractable hardtop ensuring supreme performance in the BMW M3
Convertible with nothing but the sky above. Authentic BMW M design as
the expression of superior drive power; aluminium engine lid with
striking powerdome; characteristic front end with large air intakes;
powerfully flared wheel arches; specific BMW M interpretation of the
classic lines of a BMW Convertible with its dynamically stretched
silhouette, low waistline and muscular, low-slung rear end; gill
elements in the front side walls; M-specific side sills contoured even
more specifically towards the rear of the car as a visual tribute to
rear-wheel drive; rear air dam with diffuser optimising the flow of air
beneath the car; dual tailpipes typical of BMW M. Exclusive driving
experience: The unique power and performance of a BMW M3 combined with
an incomparably intense experience of the sun and wind unique to a BMW
Convertible. The BMW M3 Convertible is powered by BMW M's brand-new V8
displacing 4.0 litres and developing maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp;
maximum torque is 400 Nm/295 lb-ft at 3,900 rpm; maximum engine speed
8,400 rpm, optimum muscle and thrust throughout the entire range of
engine speed. Individual throttle butterflies, variable double-VANOS
camshaft control, Brake Energy Regeneration; engine 15 kg lighter than
the six-cylinder power unit on the former model.

Dubai, UAE. BMW Group Middle East announced the highly-anticipated BMW
M3 Sedan will arrive in the region in April 2008, while attendees at
the 9th International Middle East Motor Show were given a sneak preview
of the M3 Coupé. "With its superior power, performance and
dynamism, the new BMW M3 ensures truly unique sheer driving pleasure of
the highest calibre," said Mr. Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW
Group Middle East. "The new BMW M3 is destined to take pole
position with aficionados when it arrives in the region. The new, 309
kW/420 hp V8 power unit offers enormous muscle and performance and the
aesthetic design so typical of the BMW M spells out its supremacy on
the racetrack." The new BMW M3 sets the foundation for continuing
an exceptional career in motorsport. Every enthusiast sharing the
passion for supreme performance can rest assured this model is able to
master even the greatest challenge on and off the race track. The
all-new "heart" of the latest BMW M3 is the eight-cylinder
power unit which, through its high-speed engine concept alone, comes
with all the DNA of the current Formula 1 engine raced by the BMW
Sauber F1 Team. Applying this high-speed concept characteristic of all
BMW M power units, the new V8 develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp
from engine capacity of precisely 3,999 cc. Further equally impressive
factors are the engine's peak torque of 400 Newton-metres as well as
maximum engine speed of 8, 400 rpm. Truly unprecedented, the thrust and
pulling force generated through this unique potential conveys the
supreme power of the engine through the variable M differential lock to
the rear wheels. Acceleration to 100 km/h comes in just 4.8 seconds,
and the car continues this exceptional performance with fascinating
consistency all the way to its top speed of 250 km/h, where the engine
electronics set an artificial limit to the ongoing power and
performance of the new BMW M3. - Ends - For questions please contact:
Rana Jones, Corporate Communications Manager Telephone: +971 4 3132615,
Fax: +971 4 3300120 Email: Rana.Jones@bmw.com Internet:
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en OR Kelly Smith, MCS/Action Mobile: +971 50 498
3085 Email: Kelly.s@actionprgroup.com Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

2008 BMW M3 Praised for its Elegant and Powerful Performance at Comfort
Level Unmatched by Many Cars Woodcliff Lake, NJ - November 14, 2007...
BMW of North America today announced that its all-new 2008 BMW M3 has
won Popular Mechanics' 2008 Automotive Excellence Award in the
performance category. Martin Birkmann, BMW M Series Brand Manager,
accepted the honor on behalf of BMW at the award reception, which was
held today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. "We are thrilled that the
2008 BMW M3 has won this year's Automotive Excellence Award for
performance," said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO, BMW (US) Holding
Corp. "BMW is dedicated to engineering vehicles that provide
consumers with the ultimate driving experience and superior
performance, so it is especially gratifying that the 2008 BMW M3 has
won the award in the performance category. It just adds to the already
incredible level of excitement and anticipation building around the
launch of the M3 this spring." The all-new 2008 M3 Coupe and M3
Sedan-which made their North American debuts earlier today at the auto
show-arrive at dealerships in spring 2008 and will feature the first V8
in a series-production BMW M3. They will also feature
driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls encompassing
engine response, steering, damping and stability (with an available
steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the
preferences.) The vehicles also offer a sport-oriented interior, which
can be optimized to the driver's desires. In its December 2007
article about the Awards, Popular Mechanics automotive editors praise
the 2008 BMW M3 as "..one of the few performance cars that can
triumph at weekend track days and still carry four friends in perfect
comfort and luxury to an evening movie...The M3 is elegant and
powerful, and it does its job at a comfort level not many cars can
match." Each year, to determine the winners of the Popular
Mechanics Automotive Excellence Awards, the magazine's editors drive
more than 100 of the newest cars, trucks and sport-utility vehicles,
amassing well over 100,000 miles in the process. Through their
experiences on extended test drives around the world, instrumented
comparison tests and longer-term evaluations, the auto team nominates a
list of vehicles in each category. Those selections are put to a vote
and the top vote getters in each category win an Automotive Excellence Award.

Dubai, UAE. Arriving in the Middle East in December 2007, the
fourth-generation of the BMW M3 Coupe once again sets new standards in
technology and driving dynamics. In terms of character, power and
functionality this is an absolutely unique high-performance sports car,
which continues to deliver all the qualities required for everyday
driving enjoyment of the highest calibre. Making its debut in the
Middle East, the eight-cylinder power unit with 420 hp, provides more
power, less weight and lower fuel consumption. This brand-new
eight-cylinder power unit in V-arrangement is the truly impressive
"heart" of the new BMW M3 Coupe, and combines outstanding
power and performance with unique dynamism. "With the arrival of
the completely re-engineered new BMW M3 Coupe in the Middle East at the
end of this year, the ultimate driving experience is destined for new
levels," said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle
East. "Turning powerful passion into supreme performance on the
track, the new BMW M3 Coupe is a stand-out player on the racetrack and
is equally as impressive and comfortable on the road. BMW Group Middle
East achieved record sales across the GCC in 2006, and with the
introduction of incredible models such as the new BMW M3 we are assured
of continued growth in the region." Displacing 3,999 cc, the new
V8 develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp. Maximum torque, in turn,
is 400 Newton-metres at an engine speed of 3,900 rpm. And perhaps an
even more impressive fact is that some 85 per cent of this maximum
torque is available consistently throughout the enormous speed range of
6,500 rpm. The new BMW M3 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and
has a top speed limited electronically of 250 km/h. The eight-cylinder
power unit owes its perhaps most striking feature to the high-speed
engine concept again typical of BMW M: Maximum engine speed of 8,400
rpm gives the engine supreme thrust and torque at all times. This power
is transmitted to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox in
conjunction with brand-new final drive featuring BMW's Variable M
Limited-Slip Differential. Over and above the engine's specific
output of 105 hp per litre, average fuel consumption in the EU test
cycle of just 12.4 litres/100 kilometres bears clear testimony to the
supreme engineering that has gone into this equally supreme car. The
new BMW M3 Coupe also hits a new first with the introduction of a
carbon-fibre roof - it is the first production car in its segment to
feature this new technology. Hardly any other component on the body of
the new BMW M3 expresses the car's cutting-edge technology as clearly -
and, above all, as visibly - as the roof made of
carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP). As visible proof of this new
technology, the roof stands out intentionally through the fibre
structure of this Formula 1 material, with only a layer of clear paint
covering this high-tech surface. For more than two decades, the BMW M3
has ranked alone as the epitome of ultimate dynamism- a car offering
powerful and superior aesthetics, as well as a truly incomparable
driving experience. The BMW M3 Coupe looks back on a long motorsport
tradition, with an absolutely unique result every time - the new
completely re-engineered BMW M3 Coupe is now raring to go!

M3 Sedan Comes to America in 2008 Woodcliff Lake, NJ - October 6,
2007... BMW raises the performance benchmark once again with the
introduction of the 2008 M3 Sedan. Sharing the M3 Coupe's high-revving
414-horsepower V8 and balanced chassis that is designed to be
"faster than its engine", the motorsports arm of the German
auto maker, BMW M GmbH, is pleased to offer the most powerful,
highest-performing M3 ever with four doors. Originally offered in 1986
as a homologation special to allow BMW's entry into the German Touring
Car Championship, the M3's popularity and steadily increasing sales for
each iteration motivated the company to continue developing this unique
combination of driving dynamics, comfort and luxury in a compact
machine and offer a new version each time the underlying 3 Series was
reborn. Americans were first introduced to the M3 sports sedan concept
in 1988. The first M3 produced 192 hp from its 2.3-liter four-cylinder
engine during its 1988-1991 model year run. A legend was born and
Americans embraced the high-rpm, naturally-aspirated M concept. The
next generation arrived in 1995 with a 3.0-liter (and later, 3.2-liter)
240-hp inline-six powerplant. In 1997 the first M3 Sedan joined the
family and the first M3 Convertible followed shortly thereafter. The
most-recent version, available as either a coupe or convertible from
2001-2006, again was offered with six-cylinder power, this time
providing 333 hp from its 3.2 liters. This vehicle was BMW's first use
of SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) for the US market. The all-new 2008
M3 Sedan and M3 Coupe that arrive in spring 2008 will feature the first
V8 in a series-production BMW M3. It will also feature
driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls including
steering, damping and stability (and an available
steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the
preferences) and a sumptuous interior that can be optimized to a
driver's desires including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation
system operated through BMW's latest iDrive controller. Lightweight,
efficient V8 at the heart of the BMW M3 The move to eight cylinders in
the fourth generation BMW M3 provides a powerplant offering the
seemingly disparate characteristics of more power, increased efficiency
and reduced weight when compared with the previous six-cylinder M3
engine. Displacing 3,999 cubic centimeters (4.0 liters), the new
light-alloy engine produces 414 hp at 8,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of
torque at 3,900 rpm with 85 percent of the maximum torque available
consistently through 6,500 rpm. This power output represents a
15-percent increase over the six-cylinder from the last generation M3
and it comes with an eight-percent fuel-economy improvement when
compared to its predecessor. Compression ratio is dialed in to 12.0:1
and redline is set at 8,400 rpm. The V8-power unit within the engine
compartment of the new BMW M3 Sedan boasts the company's variable
double-VANOS camshaft management. Offering extremely fast and
responsive valve timing, this technology reduces charge cycle losses
and improves the output, torque and response of the engine, with a
positive influence on fuel economy and emission management. A separate
throttle butterfly for each cylinder - eight in this instance - is a
feature adapted from BMW M's racing heritage and provides immediate
reaction to the gas pedal at all times. Two stepper motors operate the
four throttle butterflies on each row of cylinders, giving the engine a
particularly sensitive response at low speeds together with an
immediate reaction whenever the driver presses down the accelerator for
extra power and performance. A volume flow-controlled, pendulum-slide
cell pump supplies the engine with lubricating oil, delivering the
quantity required by the engine. Wet sump oil lubrication, optimized
for dynamic performance, ensures consistent oil supply to the high-rpm
engine at all times, particularly in extreme braking maneuvers. The
system features two oil sumps-a small oil sump in front of the front
axle subframe and a large oil sump behind it. A new, comprehensive
electronic management system coordinates all engine functions with
optimum efficiency and maximizes operational integration with the
clutch, gearbox, steering and brakes. In addition, the engine control
unit performs a wide range of on-board diagnosis functions and
masterminds the ancillary engine units. A highlight of the engine
management system is the use of ion-current technology to determine
engine knock as well as misfire and poor combustion events within the
cylinders. Contrary to conventional methods, this monitoring and
control function is performed precisely where the phenomena
occurs-within the combustion chambers. The spark plug in each cylinder
senses and controls the risk of knocking, at the same time monitoring
the correct ignition and recognizing any misfiring. In other words,
the spark plug acts as an actuator for the ignition and as a sensor
monitoring the combustion process, and is therefore able to distinguish
between a misfire and poor combustion. This dual function of the spark
plugs facilitates the diagnostic procedures required in service and
maintenance. And the increased performance with better economy comes
from the lightweight engine. At 445 pounds, it is seven percent or 33
pounds lighter than the previous model's Inline-6. Lightweight
components do not stop with the alloy engine block. The crankcase is
made of a special aluminum-silicon alloy eliminating the need for
cylinder liners. Despite the need to resist high combustion pressures
and engine speeds-this is the "fastest" production engine
ever produced by BMW as it can reach 8,400 rpm-the engineers managed to
keep the compact and rigid crankshaft weight down to 44 pounds. Manual
transmission, twin-disc clutch and Variable M Differential Lock Power
from the BMW M3 Sedan's V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a
close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. The performance parameters of the
M3 dictated heat management as a key design factor for both the
transmission and clutch. The transmission features integrated
temperature-dependent oil cooling management, while internal
ventilation maximizes heat dissipation for the twin-disc clutch. The
new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock generating up
to 100 percent locking action with fully variable action whenever
required, ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces. Engineering
a chassis which is "faster than the engine" Providing
sure-footed responsive handling for a high-performance, powerful and
luxurious sedan, while keeping mass under control, presented numerous
challenges for the BMW M3's engineers. The result is a new, aluminum
chassis developed specifically for this model. The design begins with
placing components in such a way as to create a 50/50 front/rear weight
balance. Virtually all of the front-end components are aluminum,
including the front struts, swivel bearings, central subframe and an
additional thrust panel below the engine serving to maximize lateral
stiffness of the entire front section. From the rear axle subframe
through the transverse arms and track arms, on to the wheel mounts
re-configured in their kinematics and stiffness and even the mounting
points for the longitudinal arms are now even lighter, all the way to
the aluminum dampers. Virtually every detail on the five-arm rear axle
made of aluminum is new for this model. These weight-reduction measures
and materials help reduce weight by approximately 5.5 pounds when
compared to the previous M3. Both the front and rear axles feature
hollow anti-roll bars optimized for their function and weight.
Incorporating two additional longitudinal reinforcement bars, axle
kinematics are perfectly tailored to the overall character of the car.
The result, in terms of both stability and weight, conforms to the
balanced performance concept of the BMW M3 Sedan. Compound brake system
A suitably stout braking system for a car with this much performance was
specifically developed for the new M3. Featuring large compound disc
brakes and electronic anti-lock, stopping power for the new BMW M3 is
strong, precise and consistent. The internally-vented, cross-drilled
cast iron discs measure14.2 inches in diameter at the front and 13.8
inches in the rear. They are connected to a floating aluminum hub by
cast-in stainless-steel pins. This configuration reduces the thermal
loads on the discs, thus increasing their performance and service life.
An electrically-driven pump provides the system's vacuum power. Service
- and safety - is enhanced thanks to an ongoing wear indicator which,
through a dash display, allows the driver to monitor the condition of
the brake linings. Brake service can thus be administered when
necessary without guesswork. Standard M-style light-alloy spoked
wheels measure 18 x 8.5 inches with 245/40 low-profile tires at the
front and 18 x 9.5 with 265/40 tires at the rear, can be supplemented
by optional 19-inch versions in comparable widths and design.
Servotronic steering with two manually adjustable control maps
Rear-wheel drive keeps the rack-and-pinion steering of the BMW M3 Sedan
free of drive forces. A further enhancement is hydraulic Servotronic
power assistance controlling steering forces as a function of road
speed. There is also a choice of two different control maps activated
through normal and sport modes with a console-mounted button. In Sport
mode the BMW M3 provides direct and immediate response with a
relatively high steering effort. In the Normal mode, power assistance is
comfort-oriented and requires less steering effort. Latest-generation
of Dynamic Stability Control The electronic Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) monitors driving conditions and intervenes through the
application of brakes and reduced engine power to stabilize the BMW M3
and help avoid major over- or under-steer situations. In addition to
engine controls and the ABS, other systems integrated in the DSC are
Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which prevents the wheels from
spinning on surfaces with reduced traction; the Start-Off Assistant,
which prevents the car from rolling back when setting off on a grade,
as well as Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which prevents the car from
spinning or swerving out of control when applying the brakes in a bend.
The latest version of DSC includes additional functions for even greater
driving safety. Whenever the driver is likely to apply the brakes in
full within the next few seconds, the system builds up pressure in the
hydraulic brake circuit and pre-loads the brake pads to ensure an
immediate response. The Dry Braking feature removes water film from
the discs in wet conditions, thus reducing the chance of water
interfering with the braking process. Electronic Damper Control
recognizing the driver's style of motoring The optional Electronic
Damper Control (EDC) allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's chassis
dynamics to his or her preference through one of three modes: Sport,
Normal and Comfort. The response of all dynamic driving systems is
carefully tailored to the power and performance of the new BMW M3, with
electronic intervention of the various systems naturally taking the
dynamics of the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the
option to individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting
the response of the car to his personal preferences. MDrive
personalizes the driving characteristics of the new BMW M3 The new M3
provides several standard and optional driver-controlled systems to
tailor the driving characteristics to a driver's personal preferences.
The driver can choose, with conveniently located buttons: - DSC on or
off (for a very competent, performance-oriented driver) - EDC in Sport,
Normal or Comfort modes - Servotronic in Sport or Comfort modes -
Throttle response either direct/sporting or comfort oriented A push of
the MDrive button on the steering wheel can instantaneously activate
the above driver-selectable configurations, turning the new BMW M3 into
his or her personalized Ultimate Driving Machine. The settings are
stored through menus shown on the dash-mounted screen and controlled by
the iDrive (located in the center console). Storing one's overall
preferences under the MDrive allows the driver to modify any of the
adjustable settings, yet return to his or her optimum with a simple
press of the MDrive button. This feature requires the Navigation/iDrive
option. Athletic, sporting stance separates new BMW M3 Sedan from the
pack Front to back, the design of the new BMW M3 Sedan evokes a
purposeful, sporting message. The front end, though clearly a BMW
based on the double-kidney shaped grill, flat headlight units with
standard Xenon headlamps, boasts three large air intakes below the
grill. Since the structure and configuration is determined to primarily
feed air into the engine compartment, the BMW M3 Sedan, like BMW M cars
in general, intentionally forgoes fog lamps featured on 3 Series
models. The "face" of the new BMW M3 also includes a power
dome in the middle of the aluminum hood which, though longer than that
of the 3 Series Sedan, blends harmoniously with the overall design.
The two front side panels boast a special sign of distinction
characteristic of a BMW M Car and referred to by the designers as
"gills," which incorporate the tri-color (blue/purple/red M3)
logo. Rear-view mirrors developed for the new BMW M3 fulfill an
important aerodynamic function helping reduce air resistance. Further
down the side-line, the pronounced side-sills, give the BMW M3 a light
and sporting look. The new BMW M3 Sedan looks muscular from behind,
its design taking up the particular look of the car's front end. A
discreet lip spoiler on the trunklid optimizes the car's streamlining
and reduces lift on the rear axle. In its contours, the split diffuser
beneath the rear bumper takes up the shape of the air intakes at the
front of the car as the air guide and the dual tailpipes move towards
the centerline of the car, visually contracting the rear end at the
lower center point. A further feature is the circular shape of the four
straight tailpipes in typical BMW M style. The four metallic paints
reserved for BMW M cars (Melbourne Red, Jerez Black, Interlagos Blue
and Silverstone) highlight the body, contours and proportions of the
four-door with particular intensity. In addition to these unique hues,
the BMW M3 is available in Alpine White, Jet Black, or Sparkling
Graphite Metallic. Interior design oriented an active driving
experience with luxury The interior of the BMW M3 has always been a
place designed for performance driving, but without compromising the
comfort of the driver and the passengers. The new BMW M3 Sedan
continues this tradition with the latest innovations. The five seats
are surrounded by powerful contours and flowing lines highlighting in
particular the concave and convex surfaces. The horizontal lines
dominating the area around the dashboard as well as the harmonious
surfaces of the side linings give the interior a dynamic note. The
cockpit control area tapers out between the front seats into a newly
designed center console which discreetly "swings" towards the
driver. Finished in black leather, the console harmoniously continues
the instrument surrounds and the control area in terms of both color
and shape, comprising three function switches (Power, DSC, and optional
EDC) for activating and deactivating the electronic driving programs on
the side facing the driver. Apart from the clear design and optimum
ergonomic arrangement of all controls and instruments, the choice of
colors inside the new BMW M3 Sedan helps the driver concentrate on
driving. Regardless of the upholstery and trim color, the footwells,
parcel shelf, headliner, A-pillar trim and the upper part of the
instrument panel are all finished in Anthracite. This uniform, dark
color scheme around the windshield helps the driver focus on driving.
There is no question as to the heritage of the vehicle upon opening the
door of the new BMW M3 thanks to the M car logo in the door sills. The
unique nature of the vehicle carries to the dash where the dual
circular instruments typical of BMW - the speedometer and fuel gauge as
well as the tachometer and oil temperature display - are in specific M
style. A feature typical of BMW M cars is the variable warning zone on
the tachometer that informs the driver of the recommended engine speed
depending on the engine oil temperature. The borderline between the
yellow pre-warning zone and the red warning zone moves up as a function
of increasing oil temperature to the maximum limit of 8,400 rpm. The
digital displays presenting the time, the outside temperature and
odometer, as well as the various warning lights, are positioned between
the two circular instruments. The M3's leather steering wheel, with
its thumb contours resting firmly in the driver's hands, provides an
optimum grip for precise movement of the steering wheel. The spokes
within the steering wheel incorporate the remote control buttons for
the audio system and mobile phone, as well as the optional MDrive
button. An additional auxiliary button may be programmed through the
optional BMW iDrive system. As an option, both the front seats are
available with backrest-width adjustment, while the rear seats may be
equipped with folding seatbacks which provides the 15.8 cubic foot
luggage compartment even greater capacity. A premium AM/FM/single-disc
CD audio system comes standard with an auxiliary input jack. Individual
entertainment options include SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio and a
USB-enabled port for control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player.
These three options can be bundled together in the Technology Package,
should one choose to have them all together. For vehicles equipped
with Navigation, the comprehensive information and entertainment
systems are controlled by the refined BMW iDrive. Selecting the
Navigation/iDrive option also brings the performance-oriented,
steering-wheel-spoke-mounted Mdrive button. Safety begins with the body
structure and continues inside Occupant safety begins with the design of
the new BMW M3's body structure. Together with defined deformation
zones, the use of high-strength steel ensures smooth and direct
transmission of forces in a collision and optimum absorption of loads
acting on the car. The space available for deformation is also used to
avoid any damage to the passenger cell and keep damage to the body
itself to a minimum, even in a severe collision. The electronic
restraint systems are tailored to the ultra-strong structure of the
body. Six airbags as well as the belt latch tensioners and belt force
limiters are activated by the car's central safety electronics as a
function of the type and severity of a collision. Sensors located in
the center of the car within the B-pillars and in the doors
"tell" the safety electronics which component will offer the
occupants optimum protection, with the "proper" restraint
systems being activated in the event of a collision. The driver and
front passenger are protected by frontal and side airbags housed in the
seat backrests. These four airbags are activated in two stages,
depending on the severity of the impact. Through its size alone, the
curtain head airbag protects the car's occupants on both the front and
the outer rear seats. And the risk of leg injury in a head-on
collision, finally, is reduced on the driver's side by defined
deformation of the footrest. BMW Ultimate ServiceTM: Providing owners
with incredible value and peace of mind The BMW 1 Series Convertible
will feature BMW Ultimate ServiceTM, a suite of services that includes
the BMW Maintenance Program (formerly called Full Maintenance),
Roadside Assistance and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. BMW AssistTM
with TeleService is part of the optional Premium Package or can be
ordered separately as a stand-along option. BMW Ultimate ServiceTM
includes: The BMW Maintenance Program is the only no-cost maintenance
program in the industry that covers wear and tear items like brake pads
and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. BMW
owners pay nothing for all scheduled inspections, oil changes, brake
pads, wiper blade inserts and other wear-and-tear items. BMW Roadside
Assistance is one of the industry's most comprehensive plans available.
Not only is it no-charge for the first four years, but there is no
mileage limit. BMW drivers enjoy the assurance of on-the-road help 24
hours a day, seven days a week, anywhere in the United States, Canada
and Puerto Rico. This includes everything from flat tire changes,
emergency gasoline and lock-out assistance, to towing, alternative
transportation and even trip-interruption benefits. This service also
includes valuable trip routing advice. BMW New Vehicle Limited
Warranty: All 2008 BMW passenger vehicles are covered by BMW's
excellent Limited Warranty, which includes: • New-vehicle warranty
- four-year/50,000-mile coverage of the vehicle. •
Rust-perforation warranty - 12-year/unlimited-mileage coverage. BMW
AssistTM provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road
security and convenience, for added peace of mind. It is a part of the
optional Premium package and can also be ordered separately as a
stand-alone option. BMW is the only vehicle manufacturer that offers
this service for four years at no additional cost. Most other
manufacturers cover only the first year of service. The in-vehicle
equipment for BMW AssistTM includes GPS technology and hands-free
communication functions accessed via buttons in the overhead or center
console. Vehicle occupants may request emergency or other services
simply by pressing a button; the BMW AssistTM system then transmits the
location and vehicle information to the BMW AssistTM response center. A
response specialist will then speak with the occupants to coordinate
dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside
Assistance or emergency services as needed and requested. A severe
accident automatically activates the BMW AssistTM call as well. The
BMW AssistTM Safety Plan also includes Remote Door Unlock and Stolen
Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the owner time and money.
TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when a vehicle will
need service. This feature allows the Service Advisor to proactively
set up a customer appointment and have the needed parts ready. BMW
AssistTM subscribers can also enroll in the BMW AssistTM Convenience
Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail
themselves to many BMW AssistTM Concierge services, from travel
planning to dining reservations, shopping assistance and event tickets,
as well as receive directions, and traffic and weather information. A
selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the
on-board navigation system and Bluetooth®-linked mobile phone,
after a push of the new Concierge button. The Convenience Plan also
includes Critical Calling, a new service that connects the driver in
case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is
discharged. After pushing the SOS button, a BMW AssistTM response
specialist will link the driver to his requested party for up to five
minutes and for up to four events per year. As before, the BMW
AssistTM system includes Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity
with hands-free phonebook access and dialing by name or number via the
steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a
customer-provided compatible Bluetooth® mobile phone. Performance
with a conscience BMW strives to produce its motor vehicles and other
products with the utmost attention to environmental compatibility and
protection. Integrated into the design and development of BMW
automobiles are such criteria as resource efficiency and emission
control in production; environmentally responsible selection of
materials; recyclability during production and within the vehicle;
elimination of CFCs and hazardous materials in production; and
continuing research into environmentally friendly automotive power
sources. Tangible results of these efforts include the recycling of
bumper cladding into other vehicle components; water-based paint color
coats and powder clear coats; near-future availability of
hydrogen-powered models; and various design and engineering elements
that help make BMWs easier to dismantle at the end of their service life.

1. Description in Brief. 2 2. Short Version 4 3. Concept: Technology
from Motorsport, Aesthetic Beauty for Everyday Motoring. 12 4. Power
Unit: The Thrill of a V8 - Muscle Machine with an Ideal Body. 17 5.
Chassis and Suspension: Turning Superior Performance into Supreme
Dynamics. 24 6. Design: The Expression of Perfect Concept Harmony.
30 7. Body, Safety, Model Features: Uncompromising Driving Pleasure of
the Highest Standard. 36 8. Production: Exclusive Quality Built in
Flexible Production Friendly to the Environment. 43 9. Specifications.
49 10. Exterior and Interior Dimensions. 50 11. Output and Torque
Diagram. 52 The concept looks back at a long tradition, the result is
unique every time: For more than two decades, the BMW M3 has ranked
alone as the epitome of ultimate dynamism derived directly from
motorsport, a car offering powerful and superior aesthetics, as well as
a truly incomparable driving experience. And now the new version of
this high-performance sports car is ready to go - perfectly prepared to
find the ideal line not only on the race track. Like its predecessors,
the fourth-generation BMW M3 sets new standards in technology and
driving dynamics. And at the same time, like all high-performance
models from BMW M GmbH, the new BMW M3 offers all the qualities
required for everyday driving enjoyment of the highest calibre. The new
BMW M3 is based on the BMW 3 Series Coupé, but is nevertheless
quite unique in its looks and technical features. The engine, for
example, is an exclusive development precisely for this model, with the
chassis, suspension and body all based consistently on the requirements
of motorsport. So leaving aside just a few components, the new BMW M3
is a brand-new car from the ground up. The aesthetic design of the body
again typical of BMW M and the drivetrain technology conceived from the
start for supreme performance - clear proof of the competence of the
car development engineers at BMW M GmbH with their close ties to
motorsport - spell out supremacy of the highest standard. In a
nutshell, therefore, the new BMW M3 is a car built to be a winner, a car
always able to prove its superiority also in everyday traffic. Making
its debut in the BMW M3: eight-cylinder power unit with 420 hp. The
truly impressive "heart" of the new BMW M3 is the car's
brand-new eight-cylinder power unit in V-arrangement combining
outstanding power and performance with unique dynamism. Displacing
3,999 cc, the new V8 develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp. Maximum
torque, in turn, is 400 Newton-metres or 295 lb-ft at an engine speed
of 3,900 rpm. And perhaps an even more impressive fact is that some 85
per cent of this maximum torque is available consistently throughout
the enormous speed range of 6,500 rpm. The new BMW M3 accelerates from
0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and has a top speed limited electronically of
250 km/h or 155 mph. The eight-cylinder power unit owes its perhaps
most striking feature to the high-speed engine concept again typical of
BMW M: Maximum engine speed of 8,400 rpm gives the engine supreme
thrust and torque at all times. This power is transmitted to the rear
wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox in conjunction with brand-new
final drive featuring BMW's Variable M Limited-Slip Differential. Over
and above the engine's specific output of 105 hp per litre, average fuel
consumption in the EU test cycle of just 12.4 litres/100 kilometres
(equal to 22.8 mpg imp) bears clear testimony to the supreme
engineering that has gone into this equally supreme car. Know-how
carried over from Formula 1 in production, construction, and the choice
of materials. The engine block of the new eight-cylinder comes from
BMW's light-alloy foundry in Landshut north of Munich, which also
builds the engine blocks for the Grand Prix cars raced by the BMW
Sauber F1 Team. The crankcase is made of a special aluminium-silicon
alloy. It is both compact and extremely strong and torsionally
resistant in its bedplate design. Despite the two extra cylinders, the
entire power unit is approximately 15 kg or 33 lb lighter than the
six-cylinder engine featured on the former model. The V8 power unit of
the new BMW M3 is equipped with variable double-VANOS camshaft control,
a unique technology reducing losses in the charge cycle and thus
improving power and torque in the process. Responding extremely quickly
to the driver's commands, double-VANOS improves the spontaneity of the
engine at all times, thus also helping to reduce fuel consumption and
exhaust emissions. The engineers at BMW M have developed a
low-pressure version of double-VANOS specifically for the new
eight-cylinder, operating at the regular operating pressure of the
engine's oil circuit. A further feature of the new power unit is the
use of eight individual throttle butterflies giving the engine a
particularly smooth and sensitive response throughout the entire speed
range and enabling the driver to call up the superior power of the
engine directly and smoothly at all times. A volume flow-controlled
pendulum-slide vane pump supplies the eight-cylinder with lubricating
oil, the amount of oil delivered to the engine always being geared
precisely to what the engine needs at the given point in time. Wet
sump lubrication optimised for driving dynamics, finally, ensures an
adequate supply of oil to the power unit even in extreme braking
manoeuvres and under high centrifugal forces in a fast bend. New
engine management and Brake Energy Regeneration. Yet another new
development is the electronic management of the V8 power unit
integrating the clutch, gearbox, steering and brake functions tailored
specifically to the requirements of a BMW M Car. And then, as a further
highlight of engine management, ion flow technology serves to detect any
tendency of the engine to knock as well as misfiring and mis-combustion.
Intelligent energy management featuring Brake Energy Regeneration
enhances the efficiency of the power unit to an even higher standard:
This new system generates electricity for the car's on-board network
only in overrun and while applying the brakes, with the alternator
generally being disconnected as long as the engine is in traction,
"pulling" the car. Apart from particularly efficient
generation of electric power, this process also helps to provide extra
drive power when accelerating.

- Turning Powerful Passion into Supreme Performance:The new BMW M3. -
Specifications BMW M3 Coupé. - Output and Torque Diagram.
Brand-new in technology and design. Within the BMW M GmbH model range,
the BMW M3 has always been that very special model living up in full to
its motorsport heritage. Indeed, this already applied to the very first
BMW M3 launched in 1986 and continued throughout the two subsequent
model generations. And now this supremacy comes out once again most
clearly in the 2007 version of the BMW M3. Although the latest
generation of the BMW M3 was based in its development on the new BMW M3
Coupé, the new high-performance model differs from the
"regular" coupé in terms of both looks and technical
features. Apart from the car's unique design as well as its drivetrain
and suspension technology conceived from the start for supreme
performance, lightweight technology came right at the top in the brief
given to the engineers at BMW M. And just how consistently this
development target has been translated into reality in terms of
intelligent lightweight engineering is borne out by the car's
power-to-weight ratio of only 3.8 kg (8.4 lb) per horsepower. One of
the reasons for this low weight is that the new BMW M3 is the first
production car in its segment to boast a roof made of
carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP). And in all, the new BMW M3, with
the exception of just a few components, is indeed completely new in its
engineering and design concept, clearly reflecting the successful
tradition of BMW M GmbH. Apart from the load-bearing structure of the
car, only the two doors, the bootlid, the windows, the headlights and
rear lights have been carried over from the 3 Series Coupé. All
other body components, by contrast, were specially developed for the
new BMW M3. The unique character of the new BMW M3 is obvious at first
sight: Over and above the engine compartment lid with its striking
powerdome and the two air intake openings, the function-oriented design
of the front and rear air dams, the so-called gills in the front side
panels, the side-sills also in distinctive design, the roof made of
clearly visible carbon fibre, as well as the exterior mirrors and
light-alloy wheels in BMW M design clearly characterise the new model
from the ground up. The exterior, in turn, through its athletic and
aesthetic appearance, powerfully underlines the sporting qualities of
the car. The exterior paintwork likewise adds an individual touch,
offering the connoisseur not only numerous additional colours, but also
four special paintwork options exclusive to BMW M.

The BMW M3 CSL - the 110 Per Cent Car. The M Story. The BMW M GmbH Cars.
Specifications. The three terms coupé, sports and lightweight,
abbreviated as CSL, have a great heritage: Back in 1938 BMW built the
legendary 328 Mille Miglia Coupé with an aluminium body and in
the '70s the Company built a lightweight sports car based on the
3.0-litre coupé. At the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show BMW M took up
the theme once again in the guise of the M3 CSL Concept Car, making the
hearts of sports car aficionados the world over skip a beat. And now,
following the overwhelming response to the concept car, BMW M is
presenting an M3 CSL prototype suitable for series production as the
predecessor to a production model launched to appear in future. The
new M3 CSL is based on the philosophy of intelligent lightweight
technology. This means the optimum combination of materials and
components using the most suitable material in each case for the
specific requirements made of a specific component.

BMW M3 won the prestigious "MOTORSHOW Car of the Year 2001"
award from Middle East's leading automotive TV program,
"Motorshow". The M3 was selected among 78 cars test-driven by
highly-respected and popular face in the motoring arena, Automotive
Engineer, Nadim Mehanna, presenter and producer of Motorshow program
which is closely watched by 20 million viewers worldwide every week.
Robert Bailey-McEwan, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East, said,
"We are proud of the BMW M3 winning the impressive
"Motorshow" award; this is a true thoroughbred sports-car
that combines unique aesthetics with thrilling performance, delivering
the ultimate in driving pleasure." "The concept of the award
came after repetitive requests from our worldwide viewers continuously
inquiring about the best car driven by us lately. The winning car will
be the one, which collects the biggest number of "Best Ins" in
the various categories of our spot-checked and deeply studied
test-drives. BMW M3 scored 15 out of 23!" said Mehanna. The M3,
in both coupe and convertible, comes with all the features so typical
of BMW M, such as the 343 horsepower, high-speed normal-aspiration
engine, the perfectly tuned M suspension, the new Variable M
Differential Lock, M high-performance brakes, and the unique design
elements of BMW. These include electrically adjustable sports seats
with an integrated belt system, a variable roof compartment, a superior
level of safety ensured by optimum body stiffness, and the rollover
safety system featured as standard. With top speed of 250 km/h, the M3
delivers unimaginable power: acceleration to 100 km/h comes in just 5.5
seconds and acceleration in 4th gear from 80-120 km/h is in 5.9
seconds, while average fuel consumption is a mere 12.1 litres/100 km.
From 23 categories, the BMW M3 was rated the best in acceleration,
manual gearbox (SMG2), hi-tech features, active and passive safety,
interior styling, owners' feedbacks, engine music and driving pleasure
- to mention a few. - ends -