Munich. 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 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 25.9 – 26.9 mpg; CO₂ emissions combined: 249 – 239 g/km, preliminary data) is entering its crucial phase. With a significant increase in performance vs. predecessor models and an M-specific suspension setup, newly developed straight six-cylinder engines once again set benchmarks in the segment of high-performance saloons 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 Saloon 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 Saloon 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 Saloon 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 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé are offered in two performance levels: Besides a 480 hp variant with a 6-speed manual shift, there is also the choice of a Competition model with 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 Saloon 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 49 hp and 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 Saloon 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 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé.

Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2019, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 175,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2019 was € 7.118 billion on revenues amounting to € 104.210 billion. As of 31 December 2019, the BMW Group had a workforce of 126,016 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

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For further information please contact:

Helen Wilson
BMW Group Media Relations Executive
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. Two extremely efficient high-performance models are joining the BMW M line-up in the premium midsize segment. The six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology fitted in the BMW M340d xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 5.7 – 5.3 l/100 km [49.6 – 53.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 149 – 139 g/km) and BMW M340d xDrive Touring (fuel consumption combined: 5.8 – 5.4 l/100 km [48.7 – 52.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 153 – 143 g/km) produces exceptional pulling power while attaining similarly impressive levels of efficiency. The 3.0-litre unit generates maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp and peak torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). The inclusion of 48V mild hybrid technology, meanwhile, has led to a further reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to their comprehensive arsenal of exhaust gas treatment technologies, including an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection, the most powerful diesel variants of the new BMW 3 Series also comply with the future Euro 6d emissions standard.

The arrival of the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring in April 2020 bring that inimitable M feeling to a diesel-fuelled BMW 3 Series for the first time. The potent engine in the new BMW M models teams up with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, bespoke chassis technology and intelligent all-wheel drive. M Sport suspension – including variable sport steering – and M Sport brakes are fitted as standard on both models, likewise the M Sport differential. M-specific exterior features with optimised aerodynamic properties are part of an overall package that leaves no stone unturned in the provision of supreme performance. The new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.6 seconds, while the new BMW M340d xDrive Touring completes the same sprint in 4.8 seconds. The combination of pulsating driving characteristics and a cockpit focusing squarely on the enjoyment of intense driving pleasure guarantees an enthralling experience of high performance at work.

Exceptional power delivery meets exemplary efficiency: the six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and 250 kW/340 hp.

The new M models in the BMW 3 Series line-up owe their unmistakable character in no small part to outstanding power delivery coupled with rock-bottom fuel consumption and emissions given the performance at hand. Their 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line diesel engine features a crankcase and cylinder head both made from aluminium. Frictional losses in the base engine are reduced by measures including a wire-arc sprayed steel coating for the cylinder bores.

The power unit’s BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a two-stage turbocharging system with optimised thermodynamics and direct charge air cooling, along with common-rail direct injection using piezo injectors. To ensure exceptionally sharp turbocharger response, the system’s high-pressure and low-pressure stages both feature variable turbine geometry. The further developed direct injection system, whose injectors now operate at a maximum 2,700 bar, ensures a precisely metered supply of fuel and extremely clean combustion. Integral pressure sensors enable up to ten injections per stoke. Engine response and efficiency also benefit from an intake system with optimised air routing, whose upgraded design enhances the power unit’s acoustics as well. Extensive engine encapsulation measures ensure the straight-six is particularly easy on the ears – and at the same time helps to optimise warm-up behaviour. Specially developed for the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring, the diesel unit’s peak torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) is on stream from just 1,750 rpm, while maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp arrives at 4,400 rpm.

Mild hybrid technology with a 48V starter-generator increases dynamism and efficiency.

The inclusion of mild hybrid technology allows the engine to build power with an even greater sense of urgency. The 48V starter-generator fitted in the new BMW M models creates an electric boost effect that instantly puts an additional 8 kW/11 hp on tap. This extra input augments power delivery under hard acceleration and increases efficiency at regular speeds. The electrical power required here is stored in a 48V battery that is charged by recuperating energy under braking or on the overrun. Plus, additional energy can be supplied to the 48V battery by raising the engine’s load point.

The power generated in this way assists the engine when travelling at a constant speed, too, meaning it can operate within an efficiency-optimised load range as often as possible. As a result, there are fewer spikes in fuel consumption. The mild hybrid technology has the additional benefit of improving the operation of the Auto Start Stop and coasting functions. The 48V generator allows the engine to be deactivated with very little vibration and restarted smoothly during brief stops at junctions or in traffic jams. When braking, the engine can be switched off at speeds below 15 km/h (9 mph) already. The coasting function available when the Driving Experience Control switch is set to ECO PRO or COMFORT mode also shuts the engine down completely, creating further potential for lowering fuel consumption.

M Sport exhaust system generates stirring soundtrack, exhaust gas treatment complies with the Euro 6d emissions standard.

The straight-six diesel engine in the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring backs its exhilarating power delivery with a highly distinctive aural accompaniment. Both models are equipped as standard with an M Sport exhaust system whose rear silencer culminates in a pair of trapezoidal tailpipes.

With a view to minimising emissions, the diesel engine in the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring includes an efficient low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation circuit and an extremely powerful three-way high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation circuit. Added to which, the two-stage NOX exhaust re-treatment system fitted as standard by BMW in diesel-engined models since 2012 has been further developed. The close-to-engine component of the exhaust gas treatment system with BMW BluePerformance technology comprises a diesel oxidation catalyst and an SCR coating in the diesel particulate filter. A second SCR catalyst has been integrated at the exit of the close-to-engine system to minimise nitrogen oxide emissions (NOX). The new BMW M models in the BMW 3 Series range therefore comply with the requirements of the Euro 6d emissions standard not due to come into force until 2021.

Sublime power transfer: eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, BMW xDrive and M Sport differential as standard.

The powerful straight-six diesel hooks up as standard with the latest-generation eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, whose ratio spacing is perfectly attuned to the power unit’s performance characteristics. As well as super-sharp gear shifts, the transmission stands out with its optimised hydraulic control system, low converter slip and effective damping of rotational irregularities. Shift paddles on the steering wheel enable lightning-fast manual interventions in the gear selection process. There is also a Launch Control function for accelerating off the line with full dynamic intent.

The intelligent all-wheel-drive system in the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring enables fully variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear wheels using an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case. Working in tandem with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, BMW xDrive reacts to changes in the driving situation with great precision and in a fraction of a second, maximising traction, agility and handling stability in all weather and road surface conditions, and when the driver explores the car’s sporting capabilities. The system’s rear-biased setup helps to produce the driving experience expected of an M car, and is especially pronounced with the Driving Experience Control switch set to SPORT or SPORT+ mode. Judicious apportioning of even more power to the rear wheels increases turn-in agility, in particular.

The M Sport differential for the rear axle – another standard feature linked with both DSC and the all-wheel-drive system – ensures power is transferred to the road with even greater precision. The fully variable locking function is able to limit speed equalisation between the inside and outside wheel through corners so that the car’s agility and cornering prowess rise to new levels under hard driving. This helps the driver to power out of bends with extra dynamic verve. In situations where the road surface offers differing levels of adhesion for the left and right rear wheels, the M Sport differential increases traction and handling stability by preventing slip at the wheel struggling for grip.

Standard: M Sport suspension and variable sport steering.

Like the engine and power transmission tech, the chassis systems on board the BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring are designed to deliver supreme performance. Both models are equipped as standard with M Sport suspension, which extracts the full dynamic handling potential offered by the double-joint spring strut front axle / five-link rear axle combination on the new BMW 3 Series to exhilarating effect. The M Sport package brings a ten-millimetre drop in ride height, M-specific elastokinematics and lift-related dampers. The latter combine extra hydraulic damping on rebound at the front axle with a compression-limiting system at the rear, enabling continuously variable, progressive adjustment of damper firmness in response to spring travel. Vibrations experienced during dynamic cornering or on bumpy road surfaces can therefore be smoothed out with unruffled assurance.

Alternatively, customers can opt for Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers. This system of damper control offers extremely finely metered spring and damping responses and adapts constantly to both driving style and road surface conditions. The compression and rebound stages are tweaked independently of one another to match the situation at hand. The damping characteristics can be adjusted using the Driving Experience Control switch. SPORT and SPORT+ modes optimise dynamic driving and create a noticeable contrast to the more comfort-oriented damper responses in COMFORT and ECO PRO modes.

Both the standard M Sport suspension and optional Adaptive M suspension join forces with variable sport steering, whose Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance helps to give the cars unshakable straight-line poise and accurate turn-in through dynamically taken corners. The variable ratio adjusts to changes in the steering angle, further enhancing comfort. It allows drivers to perform low-speed manoeuvres with minimal steering wheel movement and without changing their grip on the wheel, at the same time as increasing agility on twisty sections of road.

M Sport brakes and M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres.

Outstanding stopping power and a pointedly sporty setup – headlined by short pedal travel and a distinct pressure point – are the defining characteristics of the M Sport brakes (also standard). Four-piston fixed callipers and 348-millimetre discs at the front wheels and single-piston floating callipers with 345-millimetre discs at the rear form the basis for safe, supremely assured handling, while blue-painted callipers bearing the M logo add a visual flourish.

Rounding off the chassis highlights on the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring are 18‑inch M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres measuring 225/45 R 18 at the front and 255/40 R 18 at the rear. 19‑inch M light-alloy wheels in three designs can be found on the options list alongside 19‑inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels, again with mixed-size tyres. The 19‑inch M light-alloy wheels are also available with high-performance tyres.

M‑specific design features for the exterior and interior.

Signature BMW M exterior design features help to give the new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring a distinctive look that re-asserts their outstanding performance capabilities. The front apron, side skirts and rear styling of both models have been crafted to fulfil functional requirements in terms of cooling air supply and aerodynamics. The new BMW M340d xDrive Sedan adds a body-coloured M rear spoiler to the mix. The bespoke design elements on both models also include a mesh-design BMW kidney grille and trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes. BMW Individual High-gloss Shadowline trim and a Cerium Grey metallic finish for the exterior mirror caps, the air intake trim in the front bumper, the surface of the BMW kidney grille mesh and its surround, the tailpipes, and the model badge add to the exclusive appearance of the BMW M duo.

The interior’s styling and equipment are focused entirely on maximising enjoyment of the intense driving experience served up by the car. The standard sports seats for the driver and front passenger are upholstered in an M-specific combination of Sensatec and Alcantara with contrast quilting in Blue, while an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and shift paddles, M pedals, M-specific floor mats and interior trim strips in Aluminium Tetragon with accent strips in Pearl-effect Chrome bring further touches of sporting flair to the interior.

As well as bespoke powertrain / chassis technology and M-specific design features, the standard equipment roster for the BMW M340d xDrive Sedan and BMW M340d xDrive Touring also includes three-zone automatic climate control (with separate operation of the temperature and ventilation settings both for the driver and front passenger side and the rear compartment), ambient lighting, extended storage and an automatically dimming rear-view mirror. Also featured as standard in the new BMW M models are Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, BMW Live Cockpit Plus complete with navigation system and 8.8-inch Control Display, and the Connected Package Plus including Real Time Traffic Information, Remote Services, Concierge Services and Apple CarPlay preparation.

Building on a fine heritage of lightweight, high performance sports saloons, the new special edition BMW M3 CS is the perfect combination of high performance, dynamic performance and everyday usability. Thanks to the generous use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and a subsequent low kerb weight, a more sporting suspension set-up, increased power and torque and a unique interior style the BMW CS is a car worthy of the ‘CS’ moniker.

Power for the latest special vehicle to come out of BMW M GmbH is from a six-cylinder in-line engine – a configuration of which has a long tradition at BMW – and one that ensures the absolute best performance in the new BMW M3 CS. Compared to the M3 with Competition Package, the maximum power has been increased by 10hp.

The maximum torque of 600Nm is about 10 per cent higher (M3 with Competition Package: 550Nm) and is available from 4,000rpm to 5,380rpm. The outstanding power output gives the BMW M3 CS performance on a par with supercars, with the sprint from zero to 62mph taking just 3.9 seconds. Thanks to the M Drivers Package, the maximum speed is limited to 174mph. 

The 3.0-litre unit uses M TwinPower Turbo technology, with two spontaneously responsive mono-scroll turbochargers. Together with the High Precision Injection (HPI) petrol injection system, the VALVETRONIC variable valve control system and the double-VANOS stepless camshaft adjustment help to deliver optimum performance.

Boost is built up continuously from just above idle, while the fully variable valve and camshaft adjustment ensures efficiency. As a result, the engine not only delivers its power continuously over a very wide engine speed range, but also works economically, keeping fuel consumption low at 34mpg and thus exhaust emissions low at 194g/km.

The engine enables a downshift speed of 7,600rpm, unusually high for a turbocharged engine with double supercharging. Thanks to its ‘closed-deck’ design, the crankcase is particularly rigid enabling high cylinder pressures. Also designed for high performance is the forged, lightweight yet highly torsion-resistant crankshaft, which keeps the weight of the rotating mass low and ensures an even more spontaneous response of the twin-turbo engine.

Another technical highlight, derived from BMW’s extensive motorsport expertise is the oil supply. It is based on the high demands of race track use and ensures the supply of oil at longitudinal and transverse forces of up to 1.4g. The weight-optimised magnesium oil pan is equipped with an additional cover, which keeps the surge of the lubricant even in extreme driving conditions such as abrupt changes of direction on track.

Of course, an M engine must also have the appropriate soundtrack. The new M3 CS has a twin sports exhaust system with four tailpipes, elegantly integrated into the CRFP rear diffuser. It offers the lowest possible exhaust gas backpressure for power delivery and is controlled by a damper system. The dampers are electrically controlled and not only provide optimal feedback on the load condition of the engine over the entire speed range, but also give a typically aggressive ‘M’ sound.

Incidentally, the driver can influence the mode of operation of the valve system by preselecting a driving mode. The tailpipes are made of stainless steel and carry the M emblem.

Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a seven-speed M dual-clutch gearbox with Drivelogic. It delivers very fast gear changes without interruption of traction. Thanks to M Launch Control, it will accelerate optimally from a standstill. The standard DCT gearbox can also be manually operated via paddles on the steering wheel. To meet even the hardest driving conditions, the 7-speed box has its own oil cooler.

Driving dynamics optimised on the racetrack
Promising driving precision and superior agility, BMW M models have always stood out thanks to a high degree of agility, steering precision and driving stability. The new BMW M3 CS continues this tradition and also supports the enthusiastic driver with a multitude of options for adjusting the chassis, the electro-mechanical ‘M Servotronic’ steering, the DSC stability control system and the Drivelogic dual-clutch transmission.

The CS is equipped as standard with Adaptive M suspension. Here, the driver can choose between three modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport +.The extremely precise electro-mechanical steering of the M3 CS can also be influenced by three different characteristic settings available at the press of a button. The high-tech chassis also includes the Active M differential, which further boosts the already excellent traction and suspension, further optimised by means of an electronically controlled slat lock. The lock control unit communicates with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), it takes into account the accelerator pedal position, the wheel speed and the yaw rate of the car and adapts with precision to driving conditions.

Especially when driven hard on the race track, the driving stability components enable maximum traction under all conditions, such as powerful acceleration out of tight turns or on lanes with different coefficients of friction.

The DSC normally counteracts understeer or oversteer by specific interventions in the engine and brake controls, but by switching to M Dynamic Mode (MDM) it allows more wheel slip, allowing for light drifts where track conditions allow.

The chassis is very similar to that of the BMW M3 with Competition Package, which was modified specifically to be even sportier than the already dynamically able M3.

Thanks to its lightweight aluminium construction, it is characterised by its low weight and particularly rigid axles. At the front, it has a two-link strut behind a five-link wishbone, with forged aluminium hubs and calipers. The double-wishbone rear suspension is further influenced by motorsport technology.

A standard unique feature for the CS are forged light-alloy wheels, finished in Matt Orbit Grey. The ten-spoke design is based on the wheels of the successful M4 racing cars from the German Touring Car Masters (DTM). They are extremely light - for example, the rear, 10 J x 20-inch wheels only weigh around 10kg, and the front 9 J x 19-inch wheels weigh just over 9kg. This keeps the unsprung mass low and contributes to the exceptionally high driving dynamics of the M3 CS.

As standard, the CS is equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, 265/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R 20 at the rear. The Cup tyres ensure particularly precise steering characteristics, while providing the greatest possible feedback to the driver.

They are ideal for use on the race track and provide maximum grip. However, those who want to use the CS mainly in everyday life can opt for Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, which build more grip on wet roads than the Cup tires.

Like the M3, the new CS comes as standard with the BMW M compound brake, It works with four-piston calipers at the front and a two-piston system at the rear, with outstanding deceleration, high fade stability and excellent pedal feel. Compared to a conventional brake system, the composite brake is characterised by its significantly lower weight which contributes to a reduction in unsprung mass.

As an option, the BMW M Carbon-Ceramic Brakes with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers is available for the BMW M3 CS, which is even lighter, withstands the highest loads, such as race track use, and is even more durable.

Lightweight engineering
The BMW M3 CS has a kerb weight of just 1,585kg (without driver). The CFRP bonnet alone is about 25 per cent lighter than that of the standard M3, while the CFRP roof is more than 6kg lighter than a steel one. Another advantage of the lightweight yet robust composite material is the lowering of the vehicle's centre of gravity, which gives the BMW M3 CS even more agile handling. On the tailgate, for example, a new carbon fibre lip spoiler not only saves weight, but also significantly reduces lift on the rear axle.

Whilst saving weight was the maxim, M3 CS buyers don’t have to do without luxuries. The M-Sport seats are reduced in weight, but the CS still has amenities such as climate control and a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System.

Expressive Design
The new special edition M3 CS emphasises its incredible performance with its purposeful visual appearance. No matter from which perspective you look at the M3 CS, It looks dynamic, muscular and every inch a high-performance sports car.

The exterior styling benefits from double LED headlights and a flat double kidney grille. The three-part front splitter not only emphasises the dynamics of the M3 CS, but also fulfils technical tasks: The large air intakes serve to provide efficient cooling to the six-cylinder twin-turbo engine and also the braking system. Made of lightweight carbon fibre, the splitter effectively reduces the lift on the front axle. Further reducing the load on the front axle is the lightweight CFRP bonnet with a large air intake as featured on the M4 GTS and DTM Champion Edition.

Also made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic is the new boot spoiler. This is an aerodynamic spoiler lip that not only visually sets a sporty accent, but also reduces lift on the rear axle. The rear diffuser, also made of CFRP, is taken from the BMW M4 GTS. It ensures a sporty and distinctive finish to the rear end and also integrates the four stainless steel tailpipes of the M Sport exhaust system. In addition, the diffuser, together with the front splitter, optimises the airflow underneath the car’s floor.

Due to the increased use of components made of CFRP, BMW is consistently pursuing the concept of intelligent lightweight construction in the new M3 CS, but the material also has some style advantages.

The CS comes with BMW’s individual High Gloss Shadow Line trim and has darkened rear lights and is available in a range of five distinctive exterior colours. As standard, the CS is painted in Alpine White, while optional colours are San Marino Blue Metallic, Lime Rock Grey Metallic, Frozen Dark Blue II Metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic.

Exclusive equipment
The discreet yet sporty interior uses exclusive bi-colour Silverstone/Black leather and Alcantara. The lightweight M sports seats, which are sculpted to offer figure-hugging comfort are shared with the M3 with Competition Package. The seats guarantee perfect lateral support even when driving fast on the racetrack, but also offer very good long-distance comfort. BMW M stripes are incorporated in the front seat belts and seats.The rear seats also feature an exclusive, two-tone Merino leather in the same colour combination.

The most desirable accessory for the driver of the new M3 CS is the optional M Performance Alcantara steering wheel. It is covered in exclusive, anthracite-coloured Alcantara and has a silver ‘12 o'clock’ marking and offers maximum grip in all track driving situations.

The handbrake lever gaiter is Alcantara with grey contrasting stitching, while an exclusive red start/stop button adds to the sense of occasion. The interior trim features Alcantara, with a unique CS model designation. There are also special door sills featuring the M3 CS logo.

Despite the consistently sporty design and weight savings, the new BMW M3 CS does not have to do without amenities such as climate control, while the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System ensures maximum listening pleasure. The BMW Icon Adaptive LED Headlights and BMW Navigation System Professional complete the extensive standard equipment package.

The BMW M3 CS is on sale from January 2018 with first orders arriving in March 2018. Prices start from £86,380 OTR.  

                                                          ENDS

The BMW Group

With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 31 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2015, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.247 million cars and nearly 137,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2015 was approximately € 9.22 billion on revenues amounting to € 92.18 billion. As of 31 December 2015, the BMW Group had a workforce of 122,244 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

Facebook: BMW UK

Twitter: @BMW_UK

Instagram: BMWUK

LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited

YouTube: BMW UK

For further information please contact:

Gavin Ward                                           BMW Media Relations Manager

Tel:  01252 921261           

Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Lauren Prema                                       BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 07815 370746

Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk   

Piers Scott                                            General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01252 921265            

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01252 921256           

Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

With the launch of the first generation of the BMW M3 in 1986, the BMW M GmbH revolutionised the sporty mid-range segment and since then BMW M has continuously refined its automotive icon across five model generations. To mark the 30th anniversary of this automotive icon this summer, BMW M is launching the exclusive special BMW M3 30 Jahre Special Edition, which is limited in the UK to only 30 cars.

The BMW M3 30 Jahre Edition builds on the Competition Package which is available for the BMW M3. The Competition Package comprises an increase in engine output by 19hp to 450hp and a combined fuel consumption of 34mpg with 194 g/km CO2 emissions. Also included on this model 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).
 

* Electronicall limited

Moreover, 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 Jahre Edition with the 7-speed M DCT gearbox sprints from 0 to 62mph in just 4 seconds, which is 0.1 seconds faster than the series production model.

However, the changes on this car are not just technical, the special-edition M3 has been given the BMW Individual treatment. As a result, it cuts a more dynamic, head-turning figure than its standard siblings.

The striking BMW Individual Frozen Silver metallic paint accentuates the elegantly muscular forms of the BMW M3 and in terms of exterior design, it also includes the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line with enhanced features, including a black chrome tailpipe trim for the M sports exhaust system as well as a variety of carbon fibre additions. These include a carbon fibre front splitter and trims, mirror caps, rear diffuser and a carbon fibre rear spoiler.

The edition model also features exclusively designed M gills in the front wings
bearing the logo “M3 30 Jahre”.

Sporty, functional interior with an exceptionally high-class ambience.
Both the driver and front passenger in the M3 30 Jahre Edition can settle into the specific BMW M sports seats with 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. Other additions include the BMW M Performance Alcantara Steering wheel and the BMW M Performance Alcantara Gear Selector trim and surround.

The logo “M3 30 Jahre” on the front doorsills reminds owners of the BMW M icon’s unique history. The wording “30 Jahre M3 1/30” on the carbon fibre interior trim of the instrument panel and stitching on the front headrests gives indication of the exclusiveness of the BMW 30 Jahre M3.

The BMW M3 30 Jahre Edition features an exclusive full leather Merino trim in bicolour Black/Fjord Blue with colour-matching contrast seams that effectively underscore the anniversary model’s sporty and sophisticated character.

This special edition model features a high standard specification including harman/kardon surround-sound system with a total of 16 speakers. In addition to the exclusive content this car it also features as standard such equipment as Adaptive LED Headlights, BMW M Carbon Ceramic braking system, BMW M Head-up display, BMW M Double-Clutch Transmission, Comfort Access, Surround View, Comfort Access, Advanced Parking Pack, Extended Storage and a Speed Limit Display.

Priced at £82,675 OTR, the BMW M3 30 Jahre Edition goes on sale in Summer 2016, this being exactly 30 years after the signing of the first contract for the purchase of a BMW M3 – the original version of the car having made its debut at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show.

                                                          Ends

The BMW Group

With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 31 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2015, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.247 million cars and nearly 137,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2015 was approximately € 9.22 billion on revenues amounting to € 92.18 billion. As of 31 December 2015, the BMW Group had a workforce of 122,244 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

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For further information please contact:

Lauren Prema                                       BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 07815 370746

Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 01252 921261           

Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott                                            General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01252 921265            

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 01252 921256           

Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Additional UK images of the BMW M3 and M4 with the new Competiton Package.

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

Press pack for the M3 and M4 Coupé includes:

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