BMW UK welcomes the new year with outstanding success at the 2026 What Car? Car of the Year Awards as the all-new BMW iX3 is named overall Car of the Year after topping the Premium Electric SUV category. Alongside these awards, BMW collected four additional accolades across a variety of categories. The BMW M3 Touring was celebrated as three-time Performance Car of the Year, while the BMW 4 Series was announced as What Car?’s Coupé of choice for the sixth consecutive year. BMW continues to lead the Luxury Car category as the BMW X7 succeeds the BMW i7 in securing the 2026 accolade. Rounding off a triumphant night, the BMW X3 attained this year’s Safety Award.

BMW iX3 crowned overall Car of the Year.
Marking a true milestone moment for the brand, the BMW iX3 arrives as the first series-produced Neue Klasse model, introducing a broad spectrum of innovations and technologies that will soon be adopted across the entire BMW product portfolio. Since its unveiling last year, the trailblazing BMW iX3 has garnered widespread acclaim, and this momentum continues after securing the coveted overall Car of the Year title at this year’s What Car? awards.

The BMW iX3 thoroughly impressed judges, topping the Premium Electric SUV category before collecting the headline award. Handing over the trophy, Steve Huntingford, Editor of What Car?, said: "The premium electric SUV market is one of the most hotly contested, yet in so many respects the BMW iX3 offers a step change in capability. It combines a huge range with ultra-rapid charging; its new 'brain' improves everything from the infotainment system to safety; and despite being one of the most enjoyable SUVs of any kind to drive, it's also very comfortable. In short, it's a truly great car."

On accepting the award, David George, CEO, BMW Group UK and Ireland commented: “We are truly honoured that the BMW iX3 has been named as the 2026 What Car? Car of the Year. This award is especially meaningful given its prestigious reputation and What Car?’s rigorous testing process. Like the original Neue Klasse of the 1960s, the BMW iX3 represents the beginning of a new era for BMW, bringing significant advancements in technology, range and charging capabilities while maintaining the unmistakable driving experience our customers know and expect. We extend our thanks to the entire What Car? team for this special recognition and look forward to showcasing the innovations of the Neue Klasse across the BMW product portfolio.”

The new BMW iX3 will launch in the UK on 7 March, 2026 and can be preordered at retailers nationwide. Following its launch, BMW will introduce 40 new models and model updates between now and 2027, commencing with the BMW i3 Saloon – which begins production in the second half of 2026.

BMW M3 Touring celebrated as three-time Performance Car of the Year.
Since its launch in 2022, the BMW M3 Touring has remained a consistent favourite, impressing judges year after year with its unique combination of exhilarating performance and practical versatility. Its success continued at this year’s awards, after collecting the Performance Car of the Year accolade for the third consecutive year. "The BMW M3 Touring isn't a jack of all trades; it's a master of most that manages to combine everyday usability with a huge amount of fun,” said Huntingford. “The handling can feel as secure or playful as you wish. No matter where you are in the rev range, acceleration is savage when you put your foot down. And yet the M3 Touring is just as capable of playing the classy and practical family car,” he continued.

Coupé of the Year awarded to the BMW 4 Series for the sixth consecutive year.
The remarkable winning streak of the BMW 4 Series remains unbroken as it tops What Car?’s Coupé of the Year category for the sixth time since its 2020 launch. The judging panel commended its “precise steering,” “balanced feel through corners” and engine, which “loves to be revved…” “One of the best things about the BMW 4 Series is that even the entry-level 420i version is great to drive,” Huntingford added.

Luxury Car of the Year title retained as the BMW X7 takes this year’s top spot.
2026 begins as another successful year for BMW’s luxury division after the BMW X7 succeeded the BMW i7 in securing this year’s Luxury Car of the Year title – marking a third consecutive victory for the brand. Judges highlighted the seven-seater’s combination of “luxury and power” to deliver “effortless performance”. Additional tribute was paid to its serene driving experience – standing as one of the “quietest vehicles ever tested” by the publication – alongside abundant interior space and an “impressive ride,” which “gets even better” with the optional Executive Drive Suspension.

BMW X3 secures this year’s Safety Award.
The final award of the evening was presented to the BMW X3, which was unveiled as What Car?’s pick when it comes to safety. Commenting on the win, judges said: "As well as keeping its occupants safe in a crash, the BMW X3 is packed with active safety technology that can prevent accidents from happening in the first place. However, what really sets it apart is the way in which these systems work collaboratively with the driver, avoiding the unnecessary interventions that can lead to them being switched off."

The current generation BMW X3 will continue to be sold in the UK alongside the new BMW iX3, offering customers a choice of all-electric, petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains for maximum flexibility.


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 services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
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For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

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

Munich. BMW M GmbH once again achieved outstanding sales growth in 2025. For no less than the 14th time in a row, the manufacturer of high-performance and performance vehicles reported record sales. And for the 7th time running, BMW M GmbH vehicles outsold their competitors by a considerable margin. A sales total of 213,457 vehicles surpassed the previous year’s excellent result (206,582 vehicles) by three per cent. Both the high-performance and performance models set new benchmarks. Keys to success in all markets are a state-of-the-art model range spanning many vehicle classes and an extensive portfolio of powertrain options. In 2025, nearly every tenth BMW sold was a BMW M model. This share of 9.8 per cent represents another milestone.

“Our 14th consecutive sales record validates our strategy. We will continue to offer performance and high-performance vehicles across the entire BMW model range. With fully electric, partly electric and all-ICE powertrains,” says Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH.

High-performance executive models drive growth.
The high-performance models from BMW M GmbH combine racetrack capabilities with unrestricted everyday usability. BMW M5 models became key growth drivers in 2025. The BMW M5 Sedan (energy consumption, weighted, combined: 17.6–17.2 kWh/100 km and 5.0–4.8 l/100 km (WLTP); CO₂ emissions, weighted, combined: 114–108 g/km (WLTP); CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G, weighted, combined C; fuel consumption with discharged battery: 10.7–10.5 l/100 km (WLTP))*^,1 and the BMW M5 Touring (energy consumption, weighted, combined: 18.1–17.6 kWh/100 km and 5.3–5.0 l/100 km (WLTP); CO₂ emissions, weighted, combined: 119–114 g/km (WLTP); CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G, weighted, combined D–C; fuel consumption with discharged battery: 10.9–10.7 l/100 km (WLTP))*^,1 saw enormous sales increases in their first full year on the markets, making them key contributors to the success of BMW M GmbH. Both vehicles offer a model-specific version of the M HYBRID system with a peak output of 535 kW/727 hp and a maximum system torque of 1,000 Nm. A high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor combine with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission to provide power to the M xDrive all-wheel drive system. The great appeal of the BMW M5 Touring was underscored by a “Golden Steering Wheel” award. This accolade is awarded by “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag”, both published by the German Axel Springer SE publishing house. The high-performance model achieved the highest points score of all finalists in the competition. Moreover, the distinguished jury rated the BMW M5 Touring ahead of the other class finalists in all driving disciplines, as well as in terms of efficiency and value for money.

The BMW M2 Coupé (fuel consumption, combined: 10.2–9.7 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 230–221 g/km (WLTP), CO₂ class: G)* was the best-selling high-performance vehicle of 2025. This model is also available with a manual transmission (fuel consumption, combined: 10.2–9.7 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 230–221 g/km (WLTP), CO₂ class: G)* and as an even more track-focused BMW M2 CS special model (fuel consumption, combined: 10.0 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 226 g/km (WLTP), CO₂ class: G)*. This delivers 390 kW/530 hp of power and recently set a new record time of 7:25.5 minutes on the Nürburgring.

Favourite among performance enthusiasts: the BMW M3 family.
The BMW M3 models are another family of high-performance best-sellers. The series impresses with perfectly tailored model variants and includes sedans with various output levels. The BMW M3 entry-level model is a particularly purist vehicle that comes with a six-speed manual transmission and 353 kW/480 hp of power (fuel consumption, combined: 10.1 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 230–229 g/km (WLTP), CO₂ class: G)*. Then there are the extremely popular Touring variants. 2025 also saw the launch of the BMW M3 CS Touring (fuel consumption, combined: 10.5 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 238 g/km (WLTP), CO₂ class: G)*, the most sporting exemplar with 405 kW/551 hp. The large number of BMW M3 family sales is a clear sign of the model series’ continued allure and represents a major contribution to the new record of almost 71,500 high-performance vehicles sold.

M Performance model is BMW M GmbH best-seller.
A particularly popular model and also the best-selling BMW M GmbH vehicle of 2025 was the BMW X3 M50 (fuel consumption, combined: 8.3 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 189 g/km (WLTP); CO₂ class: G)*. The top athlete in the premium mid-size SAV segment offers unique performance capabilities and a charismatic appearance. The M TwinPower Turbo engine, combined with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, delivers a maximum system output of 293 kW/398 hp. The power of the BMW X3 M50 is complemented by specific chassis technology and signature M design elements. With these attributes, it overtook the BMW i4 and its M60 Gran Coupé xDrive variant (energy consumption, combined (WLTP): 20.9 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined (WLTP): 0 g/km, CO₂ class: A)*, which delivers an output of 442 kW/601 hp and a range of up to 551 km. The electric BMW i4 range-topper was the best-selling BMW M GmbH model from 2022 to 2024. 

In 2025, nearly every tenth BMW sold was a BMW M model, and the sales share of 9.8 per cent (9.4 per cent in the year prior) represents another new record. BMW M vehicles are especially popular in Switzerland, where nearly every fourth BMW ordered is a BMW M model. 

Exceptional sales total, top spots in the individual markets.
In the key markets, BMW M GmbH vehicles led the field, beating their competitors by a considerable margin. The models were particularly coveted in the U.S., the largest single market at over 72,000 units sold. But BMW M models also achieved top positions in markets such as Canada, Germany, Korea, South Africa and the United Kingdom. In China, BMW M GmbH achieved its largest absolute sales increase.

Focused model strategy to secure and expand top position.
The state-of-the-art model portfolio with its comprehensive range of ICE, plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles is at the heart of BMW M GmbH success. The development of models based on the Neue Klasse will provide further momentum. “Our strategy of being open towards new technologies once again paid off in 2025. BMW M GmbH stands for optimal performance, independently of the powertrain type. In all markets and across all vehicle classes. Customers looking for a performance or high-performance vehicle will always find it at BMW M GmbH”, says Sylvia Neubauer, Vice President Customer, Brand, Sales at BMW M GmbH.

Motorsport remains a key pillar at BMW M GmbH.
The BMW M Motorsport race cars – the BMW M Hybrid V8, the BMW M4 GT3 EVO and the BMW M4 GT4 EVO – achieved a total of more than 180 victories in 2025. In works motorsport, the BMW M Hybrid V8 delivered a competitive performance in the first half of the FIA WEC season and the BMW M GmbH marks 14th consecutive record year. The best result of a season marked by highs and lows was the 1-2 finish at Road America. The BMW M4 GT3 EVO had a tremendous season. While the 1-2 victory at the Bathurst 12 Hour race in Australia was still won by the predecessor model, the EVO version seamlessly continued the series with top results. Triumphs at the Nürburgring 24 Hours (Germany), the Suzuka 1000 (Japan), the Indianapolis 8 Hour race and in the GTD Pro Class at the 6 Hours of the Glen and the Petit Le Mans (both U.S.) are among the highlights of a season that saw over 80 victories and 100 further podium finishes.

Teams driving the BMW M4 GT4 EVO achieved over 100 victories in the 2025 season. More than any other model, the BMW M4 GT4 is associated with customer racing. The victory in the SP10 at the Nürburgring 24 Hours was a particular high point. In the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) racing series, these vehicles came out on top in nine out of ten races. Moreover, the BMW M4 GT4 EVO triumphed in all classes at the GT4 America. The strong results of the GT4 teams helped BMW M Motorsport secure the SRO manufacturers’ title in the GT4 segment. The 2026 season will see the debut of the BMW M2 Racing as a new entry-level vehicle complementing the model portfolio for customer racing.

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 services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

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

The success story at the Nürburgring continues. With a time of 7:29.490 minutes, the BMW M3 CS Touring (fuel consumption combined: 10.5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 238 g/km according to WLTP, CO2 class: G)* is the fastest Touring of all time on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Following the impressive record set by the BMW M2 CS (fuel consumption combined: 10.0 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 226 g/km according to WLTP, CO2 class G)* 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.

Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH, commented on this achievement: "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."

The ultimate "One Car Solution."
The time of 7:29.490 minutes marks a new benchmark for the Touring 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.

The Nürburgring plays a crucial role for BMW M not only in development and testing but also in motorsport. BMW M vehicles have achieved numerous successes, including 21 overall victories at the 24-hour race. This year, ROWE Racing secured the latest victory. After a challenging start to the weekend, the team raced from 17th position. Kelvin van der Linde (RSA), Augusto Farfus (BRA), Jesse Krohn (FIN), and Raffaele Marciello (SUI) delivered an outstanding comeback to clinch victory for BMW M Motorsport.

The first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring: Maximum performance, typical M feeling, and absolute everyday usability.
The BMW M3 CS Touring combines unprecedented performance with maximum everyday usability, expanding the BMW M GmbH lineup with another special edition model in the high-performance sports car segment, now available for the first time as a Touring Car. The 405 kW/550 hp six-cylinder in-line engine propels the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 300 km/h. The vehicle features specially designed engine mounting and an M-specific exhaust system that delivers an emotionally charged driving sound. Power is transmitted through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission including Drivelogic and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, ensuring ultra-dynamic driving characteristics and supreme traction. The chassis technology is precisely tuned, with settings for the DSC stability control and M Dynamic Mode optimized for high-performance track use. The standard M Compound braking system guarantees powerful deceleration, while an optional M Carbon-ceramic brake system is available. The interior merges a performance-oriented sports car cockpit with digital technology, exclusive design features, and a versatile interior that expands storage capacity below the high-opening tailgate from 500 to 1,510 litres.

*New UK photography.

With the first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring, BMW M GmbH adds another special-edition model to its high-performance vehicle line-up. This exclusive new derivative builds on the success of the BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive, further enhancing its unique combination of exhilarating performance and exceptional practicality.

Offering an increased engine power output, bespoke chassis tuning and minimised weight – helped by numerous components made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) – the new BMW M3 CS Touring (fuel consumption combined: 26.9 mpg; CO2 emissions combined: 240 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G) provides the necessary ingredients for a truly compelling driving experience.

The six-cylinder in-line engine, delivering an impressive 550 hp, combined with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, enables the BMW M3 CS Touring to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 186 mph.

Priced from £120,600 RRP, this latest special-edition model will be produced in a limited run alongside all other variants of the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M3 Touring at BMW Group Plant Munich, with first deliveries arriving in the UK from March 2025.

^{*All figures relating to performance, consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption, electric range and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited. ***Price stated is the Recommended Retail Price which does not include On The Road costs and taxes.}

Six-cylinder in-line engine infused with motorsport technology.
Developed to deliver exceptional performance on track, the 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW M3 CS Touring features an extremely rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, a forged lightweight crankshaft and a cylinder head with a 3D-printed core. The cylinder bores – which also contribute towards weight reduction – have a wire-arc sprayed iron coating to minimise frictional losses, while the cooling system and oil supply are designed to handle the sustained heavy loads generated during harder driving on a track.

Upgraded M TwinTurbo technology ensures linear power delivery, raising the maximum charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers to 2.1 bar. Meanwhile, model-specific tweaks to the engine management system enable a maximum power output of 550 hp – a 20 hp increase over the current BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive. A peak torque of 650 Nm is available from just 2,750 rpm and up to 5,950 rpm, with the engine developing its maximum output at 6,250 rpm before reaching a 7,200 rpm red line.

A specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates creates an extremely rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure. This leads to a sharper engine response and an extremely direct transmission of power to the drivetrain. This instantaneous power delivery means the BMW M3 CS Touring can power from rest to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds, while 0 to 124 mph is achieved in 11.7 seconds. The mid-range sprint from 50 – 75 mph takes just 2.7 seconds in 4th gear and 3.5 seconds in 5th gear. The top speed of the special edition is 186 mph.

Standard on the BMW M3 CS Touring is an M-specific 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. The engine’s acoustic presence varies according to the engine profile selected by the driver from the M Setup menu, with SPORT or SPORT+ mode producing a particularly aggressive soundstage, especially through gear changes and the accompanying adjustments in rev speed.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive and Active M Differential for dynamic power transfer.
The BMW M3 CS Touring features an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic technology. A Drivelogic button is integrated into the gear selector, making it possible to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics with a choice of three settings. Alongside comfort-focused and sporty options, drivers can also engage a setting optimised specially for track driving. Both the gear selector and carbon-fibre shift paddles on the steering wheel enable sequential interventions during the gear selection process.

Power is transferred to the road through the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which utilises 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. In tandem with the Active M Differential at the rear axle – where operation is also fully variable – the intelligent all-wheel-drive system’s rear-wheel bias enhances the M-typical handling dynamics. 4WD Sport mode can be selected via the M Setup menu to send an even greater proportion of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. Meanwhile, engaging 2WD mode delivers a driving experience for the ultimate purist, where all power is sent to the rear wheels and the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system is deactivated.

Bespoke chassis tuning and outstanding stopping power.
The BMW M3 CS Touring receives model-specific chassis tuning which accounts for its individual performance characteristics, profile and weight distribution. Similarly, settings for the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode are purposefully optimised for the specific demands of track driving. Also bespoke to this model are the electronically controlled adaptive M suspension dampers, M Servotronic steering and integrated braking system.

M Compound brakes provide outstanding stopping power with callipers painted in a choice of Red or Black, while customers opting for M Carbon ceramic brakes can choose between Red or matt Gold. Forged M light-alloy wheels are standard fit and are available in an exclusive double-spoke design with a matt Gold Bronze or matt Black finish. Measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear, the alloys are wrapped track tyres (275/35 ZR19 at the front, 285/30 ZR20 at the rear) as standard. Alternatively, customers can switch to sport tyres at no cost or specify ultra-track tyres from the options list.

Exclusive carbon-fibre components and optimised body rigidity underpin outstanding performance.
Intelligent lightweight construction plays a key role in achieving the individual performance characteristics of the BMW M3 CS Touring, with extensive use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) employed to minimise weight. CFRP components include the bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps and rear diffuser. Moving inside, the M Carbon bucket seats and CFRP steering wheel shift paddles, interior trim strips and centre console also contribute towards weight reduction. These measures amount to a total weight saving of approximately 15 kilograms compared to the BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive.

Body rigidity is further increased by high-precision M front end strut braces – also 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 to the forces applied in various driving situations.

Balancing performance with everyday practicality – exclusive design features.
The BMW M3 CS Touring combines thrilling M performance with a versatile body concept, offering generous space, particularly in the rear where storage capacity can be expanded from 500 litres to a maximum of 1,510 litres.

As standard, the special edition is equipped with an array of exposed carbon fibre components, including the front splitter, front air intakes and M exterior mirror caps. All of which draw a visually striking contrast with four exterior paint options. Customers can choose from three BMW Individual colours: British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue or Frozen Solid White in addition to Black Sapphire metallic. The roof and model-specific roof spoiler are painted in Black high-gloss. Exclusive to the BMW M3 CS Touring, the roof spoiler is additionally topped with an eye-catching red contour.

The front-end design is characterised by a weight-minimised, stripped-back and frameless BMW M kidney grille, where black model lettering adorns the upper of the two horizontal grille slats. The kidney grille is also bordered by a CS-specific red contour line. The model badge at the front and its counterpart on the boot lid also have black surfaces with a red contour. Positioned either side of the kidney grille are LED icon headlights which glow yellow in a clear homage to motorsport.

Driver-focused cockpit with model-specific features.
The interior of the BMW M3 CS Touring blends a performance-focused cockpit with digital technology and exclusive design features. Electrically adjustable and heated M Carbon bucket seats are fitted as standard for the driver and front passenger. Each have integral head restraints, an illuminated “CS” model badge and surfaces in full Merino leather. Their exclusive Black/Red design is also adopted by the rear seats and all door panels are trimmed with black leather.

The standard M Alcantara steering wheel in three-spoke design – with its flat-bottomed rim and red centre marker in the 12 o’clock position – brings an authentic racing flair to the cabin. Further M-specific details include the red “CS” badge on the centre console, M seat belts and door sill plates which also bear the model designation.

Setup buttons for a customisable driving experience.
An M-specific Setup button on the centre console provides direct access to the settings for the engine, chassis, steering, brakes and M xDrive. In addition, two individually configurable setup variants can be stored permanently (and retrieved) using the M buttons on the steering wheel, offering drivers further customisation for the engine sound, DSC, Automatic Start/Stop function and the shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.

The BMW M3 CS Touring also comes as standard with the M Drive Professional system with track-optimised functions such as the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer. This system also includes 10-stage M Traction Control to provide a fully customisable driving experience on the track. Another feature of M Drive Professional is the M Mode button on the centre console, which can be used to configure the driver assistance systems and the content shown on both the information display and Head-Up Display. Drivers can choose between ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings here.

BMW Curved Display with Operating System 8.5.
The BMW M3 CS Touring features the BMW Curved Display and BMW Operating System 8.5 to provide intuitive control over numerous vehicle functions and digital services, many of which can also be operated via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The M-specific view on the 12.3-inch information display features M Shift Lights at its upper edge, while the status of the driving stability systems, M xDrive and traction control can be found in the lower portion of the screen. Widgets for vehicle setup, tyre pressure and temperature are accessible via the home screen of the 14.9-inch control display.

A standard specification to enhance driving pleasure and comfort in everyday use.
Additional standard-specification features include BMW Live Cockpit Professional which, alongside the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific content, brings the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps, smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a WiFi interface.

The BMW M3 CS Touring is also equipped with Comfort Access, two-zone automatic climate control and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System as standard. Park Distance Control and the Parking Assistant, Driving Assistant, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system are also standard fit.

Priced from £120,600 RRP, the M3 CS Touring will be produced in a limited run alongside all other variants of the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M3 Touring at BMW Group Plant Munich, with first UK customer deliveries arriving from March 2025.

Ends


About 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 services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
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For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

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

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

• Enhanced design and performance with both Competition models receiving a 20 hp increase in power, new striking LED headlight design and a fresh array of forged light-alloy wheels.
• Interior enhancements include new trim elements and sophisticated material options, tailored to enhance both everyday usability and high-speed track performance.
• Introduction of the latest digital technology including BMW Operating System 8.5.
• Available to order now, with the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive priced from £82,420 and BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive from £84,700. 
• Customer deliveries to commence in summer 2024.

They stand as custodians of a legendary badge and prime examples of the exhilarating performance and unrestricted everyday usability long established as a trademark of BMW M GmbH. Now the multi-faceted BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M3 Touring have further sharpened up their already impressive offerings, with a power hike of 20 hp for both model variants on sale in the UK, new design and equipment offerings and the latest in-car digital features.

The newly designed headlights and steering wheel bring fresh touches to the exterior and interior, which are joined by new forged light-alloy wheels, new interior trim elements and the introduction of BMW Operating System 8.5 to underpin the latest generation of BMW iDrive. This latest stage on their development curve takes the race-car character and long-distance poise and composure of the high-performance premium midsize models to another new level for the driver and up to four passengers.

The six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology fitted in the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive (fuel consumption, combined: 27.7 – 28.0 mpg; CO2 emissions, combined: 230 – 227 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G) and new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive (fuel consumption, combined: 27.2 – 27.4 mpg; CO2 emissions, combined: 235 – 233 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G), now produces an output of 530 hp, with the increased engine power channelled to all four wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive and new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive will continue to be built at BMW Group Plant Munich. With production beginning in July 2024, the models will launch worldwide from this summer. The most important sales regions for the BMW M3 Saloon are the USA, China, UK, Australia and Germany. The BMW M3 Touring is extremely popular above all in Germany, but also in the UK, other European countries and Australia.

^{*All figures relating to performance, consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited. *** Top speed with optional M Driver’s Package.}

Traditional race-car feeling, distinctive characters.

Now in its sixth model generation, the BMW M3 is more powerful, more poised and assured, more advanced and more versatile than ever. The saloon is continuing a high-performance sports car bloodline that stretches back almost 40 years. The first generation of the BMW M3, unveiled in 1986, went on to become the most successful model in touring car racing worldwide. Then, as now, a car’s success in motor sport was accompanied by steadily increasing popularity for the production model and rare levels of excitement for its owner out on the road.

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 BMW M3 Saloon now lines up alongside a Touring model, the BMW M3 Touring fusing the performance attributes for which this model series is renowned with additional practicality and expanded load-carrying ability. Folding down the rear seat backrests increases load compartment capacity from 500 to a maximum 1,510 litres. In the UK, both models are available exclusively with the most powerful version of the six-cylinder in-line engine for the BMW M3/M4 and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

With their distinct body concepts and specific qualities, the Saloon and Touring models occupy very different character spaces within the M3 range. One of their most important shared elements is their visually striking design with hallmark M features crafted precisely to meet the technical demands of cooling air supply and aerodynamic balance. The large, vertical BMW kidney grille with signature M double bars arranged horizontally, the powerfully sculpted wheel arches, the extended side skirts in contrasting Black high-gloss and the attachment parts for the front and rear aprons all provide clear pointers to the dynamic potential of the two models. The BMW M3 Saloon has a carbon-fibre roof as standard. The roof of the BMW M3 Touring, like its standard-fit roof rails, comes in black. It has a Gurney flap on the roof spoiler as an additional air-directing element.

Engine technology borrows from motor racing.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive and the new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive feature a high-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. The 3.0-litre unit stands out with its healthy appetite for revs into the highest reaches of the engine speed range and so produces the linear power delivery typical of high-performance models from BMW M GmbH.

Numerous elements adapted from race-car engine construction allow the power unit in the M3 to deliver an unmistakable performance experience on both road and track. The crankcase, with its sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, is extremely rigid and teams up with a forged crankshaft with lightweight design to unlock extremely high torque potential. The cylinder bores have a wire-arc sprayed iron coating. And the 3D-printed core for the cylinder head – another special M-specific feature – enables optimised routing of the coolant ducts that would be impossible to achieve using conventional metal casting methods.

Like the cooling system, the oil circuit is also designed to handle the particular challenges of track driving. A map-controlled oil pump ensures reliable oil supply even under extreme longitudinal and lateral acceleration.

The M TwinPower Turbo technology comprises of two mono-scroll turbochargers, each of which supplies compressed air to three cylinders. An indirect intercooler supplied by a low-temperature circuit plus specially designed compressors further enhance the turbocharger’s power output. The engine technology also includes High Precision Injection – which works at maximum pressure of 350 bar to ensure fine atomisation of fuel and therefore faster engine response – as well as VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive and new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive develops an extra 20 hp verses the outgoing model thanks to optimised configuration of the digital engine control unit (DME). The six-cylinder in-line engine now generates maximum output of 530 hp (up from the previous 510 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 (479 lb-ft) 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 on track – and enables impressive acceleration figures.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds, and the new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive completes the same sprint in 3.6 seconds – only a touch longer, despite its higher kerb weight. The increased output of the two all-wheel-drive models is reflected in 0 to 124 mph times that are 0.5 seconds quicker in each case - the saloon now records a time of 11.8 seconds, the Touring 12.4 seconds.

Both the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive and the new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive have an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph as standard. However, if the optional M Driver’s Package is specified, this figure rises to 180 mph for the saloon and 174 mph for the Touring model, allowing drivers to utilise the full potential of the powerful engines.

Model-specific composition of engine, transmission and chassis.

The standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is tuned to support the performance characteristics of the engine at hand. Drivers favouring a sporty driving style will enjoy the benefits of the standard-fit gearshift paddles on the steering wheel, which allow the driver to make spontaneous interventions in the automatic transmission’s gear selection process as and when they decide. The driving experience can be tailored even more precisely to individual tastes by adapting the shift characteristics of the transmission according to requirements and the situation at hand using the Drivelogic button.

The rear-biased setup of the intelligent all-wheel-drive system further enhances the agility of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive and new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive. 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. When enabled, 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. As well as the bracing elements in the BMW M3 Saloon, the BMW M3 Touring has additional torsion struts in the rear. This extra strengthening measure gives the Touring body variant the tools it needs to display the combination of dynamism, agility and handling precision typically found in BMW M models.

The M-specific kinematics and elastokinematics of the double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle ensure a blend of extremely dynamic handling and finely judged comfort-focused qualities in everyday use and over longer journeys. 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. Both variants have six-piston fixed-calliper brakes at the front axle and single-piston floating-calliper brakes at the rear. As well as larger and more heat-resistant brake discs – which, thanks to their considerable ability to withstand fade, ensure uncompromising deceleration even under extreme conditions – the M Carbon ceramic brakes also stand out with their intelligent lightweight construction; they 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 M Compound system is fitted with blue brake callipers as standard, but these can also be specified in red or black as an option. The M Carbon ceramic brakes callipers have a Gold metallic painted finish. All variations feature a striking BMW M logo on the brake callipers at the front axle.

The DSC system 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).

M Traction Control function, a standard feature on both Saloon and Touring models, features slip control tech that can be adjusted through ten 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 at the same time precisely controllable handling in everyday driving.

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

All new BMW M3 model variants are fitted as standard with M forged light-alloy wheels in axle-specific rim sizes to the benefit of agility and handling. The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive and new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive feature Jetblack forged light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, measuring 19-inches at the front axle and 20-inches at the rear axle. Plus, new forged M light-alloy wheels in 19-inch and 20-inch formats have been added to the extensive optional equipment roster for all model variants. These are now finished in the colour 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 Saloon and new BMW M3 Touring set new standards in their segment with their 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.

Standard specification for all model variants includes Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, Cruise Control with brake function, front collision warning system with brake intervention, Lane Departure Warning including lane return with steering assistance, Speed Limit Info with no-overtaking indicator and Parking Assistant including Reversing Assistant. Among the items on the options list is Driving Assistant Professional, which adds functions such as the Steering and Lane Control Assistant with automatic Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keeping Assistant, traffic light detection and Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function.

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 Saloon and new BMW M3 Touring. 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. The focused impression created by the light sources, whose inner workings are now structured in a particularly striking design, ensures a progressive appearance which is also adopted by the slim LED rear lights with L-shaped taillights.

Adaptive LED Headlights with non-dazzling matrix high beam are available as an option, which also include the cornering light function, urban lights, and blue inlays inside the headlights, indicating the presence of this 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.

Open the door to these new high-performance models and the stripped-back design of the interior will provide an instant hit of motor sport DNA. A new steering wheel and controls, plus sophisticated materials for the instrument panel and interior trim elements heighten the sense of exclusivity inside the M-specific sports car cockpit.

The newly designed three-spoke M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and red centre marker in the 12 o’clock position now has a flat-bottomed rim and precisely modified spokes. Two M buttons for selecting individually configured vehicle setups and the gearshift paddles are fitted as standard to enable rapid interventions in the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission’s gear selection process. An M Alcantara steering wheel in the same design and with the same functionality is available as an option for the first time, and a heating function is available as an option for both steering wheel variants.

The M-specific cockpit design also includes a control panel on the centre console. The Setup button and M Mode button are located here along with the gearshift lever / selector lever, the red Start/Stop button and the BMW iDrive Controller. These can be used by the driver to configure their desired vehicle setup and activate cockpit display and driver assistance system functions tailored to the driving situation at hand.

High-quality, carefully crafted materials and M-specific design features in the interior create a modern and premium ambience with sporting flair. The interior trim elements in the instrument panel, control panel and cup holder cover now come as standard in Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite, or optional M Carbon Fibre. 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. A memory function for the driver’s seat allows the driver to store their desired adjustment settings, while the head restraints feature illuminated model badging. Standard specification also includes seat heating for the driver and front passenger, while seat ventilation is available as an option. 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 M Carbon bucket seats provide an optimum, racing-car-like connection between driver and car. Fully electrically adjustable and heated, 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 BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive and the new BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive also welcome the latest generation of the display and control/operation system BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8.5. With the high-resolution BMW Curved Display angled towards the driver and upgraded BMW Personal Assistant, the interaction between driver and car is based squarely on operation using touch control and natural language. The fully digital screen grouping made up of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display shows M-specific content. This includes additional information on the vehicle’s status and sharpens the driver’s focus on the road ahead. 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.

The M-specific graphics and content on the information display and control display are now joined by a new way of operating the standard-fitted automatic climate control system. The temperature and ventilation settings as well as the seat heating and – if specified – steering wheel heating can now be controlled either by touch using a special menu option in the lower area of the control display or by voice command. New adjustment controls for the air vent grilles in the centre of the instrument panel and on the driver’s and front passenger side of the cockpit allow the airflow direction to be adjusted using rotating and tilting movements.

In addition to the footwells, the storage compartment in the front section of the centre console and the door openers, the standard ambient lighting now also encompasses contour lighting integrated into the trim around the central seam vents. Nine colours in multiples grades of brightness allow customers to adjust the effect to their personal preferences. The functionality of the interior lighting also includes an atmospheric Welcome and Goodbye Animation and light signals indicating an open door or incoming phone call.

As well as the BMW Maps cloud-based navigation system, the standard-fitted BMW Live Cockpit Plus includes two USB ports for data transfer, a Wi-Fi interface and smartphone integration enabling the use of Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, while the optional telephony with wireless charging enables wireless charging of compatible smartphones. A HiFi speaker system with 10 speakers and a 205-watt amplifier is fitted as standard on both Saloon and Touring models.

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 Saloon, 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 brings 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.

BMW M Performance Parts offer customers additional scope for tailoring the high-intensity driving experience and dynamic aura of the new high-performance sports cars to their personal tastes. The selection of model-specific retrofit options ranges from exterior components made from CFRP and M Performance forged wheels with centre lock to M Performance floor mats and M Performance steering wheel trim for customising the interior.

 
ENDS

^{*All figures relating to performance, consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited. *** Top speed with optional M Driver’s Package.
Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.
For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/ .}

 
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 over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.
The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
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For further information please contact:
Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe 
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@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. The retrofit products from the BMW M Performance Parts program not only enhance numerous current BMW models but also provide an additional touch of motorsport feeling to the high-performance sports cars of the BMW M GmbH. Among the particularly notable examples of technology transferred directly from the racetrack to the road are the centrelock wheels, available for selected high-performance automobiles. Design and functionality make these lightweight forged wheels absolute highlights in the diverse range of BMW M Performance Parts.

With their optimized weight, emotionally charged design, and technology adapted from motorsport connecting to the wheel bearing, the centrelock wheels emphasize the high-performance-oriented character of the vehicles equipped with them. In the case of the special edition BMW 3.0 CSL, presented on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of BMW M GmbH and sold in a limited edition of 50 units, they are part of the specifically tuned racetrack performance chassis technology. Currently, BMW M Performance centrelock wheels are offered in the Original BMW Accessories program for the BMW M2 (combined fuel consumption: 9.9 – 9.6 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 223 – 218 g/km according to WLTP), the BMW M3 Touring Competition with M xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 10.4 – 10.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 235 – 229 g/km according to WLTP), as well as for all model variants of the BMW M3 Sedan, BMW M4 Coupe, and BMW M4 Convertible.

BMW M Performance centrelock wheel: Wheel change like the pros.

Centrelock wheels were developed for motorsport, where they enable particularly fast wheel changes and, consequently, short pit stops. Instead of the usual five screws, each wheel is attached to the wheel hub with only one central screw. An extremely solid connection is ensured during the installation of the central locks by applying a torque of 930 Nm. This technology not only makes pure racetrack DNA tangible during wheel changes but also reduces rotating masses and optimizes the exclusive appearance through a distinctive design in the hub area.

The M Performance centrelock wheels for the models of the BMW M2, BMW M3, and BMW M4 are offered as a combined set in sizes 19 inches for the front axle and 20 inches for the rear axle. The lightweight forged wheels in Y-spoke design, in Jet Black matte color, feature a milled M Performance lettering and come equipped with tires in dimensions 275/35 ZR19 for the front and 285/30 ZR20 for the rear.

Individual motorsport characteristics for exterior and interior.

Like the centrelock wheels, other products from the BMW M Performance Parts program are based on the development know-how and more than five decades of motorsport experience of the BMW M GmbH. The diverse range includes retrofit options in the areas of suspension, drivetrain, aerodynamics, and cockpit, enabling a performance-oriented customization and providing a racetrack feeling in everyday traffic. For a targeted boost in dynamics and agility, options such as the M Performance suspension with height-adjustable spring perches and the M Performance sport brake system are available.

Additionally, the athletic appearance of a BMW M car can be enhanced with model-specific carbon components. The BMW M Performance Parts for the exterior are mostly made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP), sealed with clear lacquer for a high-quality finish. Model-specific options such as the M Performance front attachment carbon, the M Performance rear diffuser, or the M Performance side sill insert carbon give the vehicle a characterful appearance in a racing-style.

The uncompromising quality and special aesthetics of the BMW M Performance Parts are also experienced in the interior. High-quality carbon and Alcantara elements convey the motorsport genes of BMW M into the cockpit. M Performance knee pads with Alcantara surface provide optimized grip during particularly dynamic cornering. And both the M Performance steering wheel Pro and the M Performance armrest Alcantara offer perfect conditions for an especially intense driving experience.

_{Official fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures were determined based on the prescribed measurement procedure in accordance with European Regulation (EC) 2007/715 in the version applicable. Where a range is shown, the WLTP figures take into account the impact of any optional extras.}

_{Only official figures based on the WLTP procedure are available for new models that have been type tested since 01.01.2021. In addition, according to EU Regulation 2022/195, the NEDC values will no longer be included in the EC certificates of conformity as of 01.01.2023. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.}

_{Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.}

The BMW Group

With its brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world's leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles, as well as a provider of premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network encompasses over 30 production sites worldwide, and the company has a global sales network with representations in over 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of nearly 2.4 million automobiles and over 202,000 motorcycles. The pre-tax profit for the fiscal year 2022 amounted to €23.5 billion, with revenue reaching €142.6 billion. As of December 31, 2022, the company employed 149,475 people worldwide.

Long-term thinking and responsible action have always been the foundation of the BMW Group's economic success. The company has early on set the course for the future, consistently placing sustainability and resource conservation at the center of its orientation, from the supply chain and production to the end of the useful life of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

BMW M GmbH will add a formidable special-edition model to its product range in 2023. The new BMW M3 CS is an exclusive high-performance car that combines supreme dynamic prowess with the everyday usability of an M3 saloon.

With intelligent lightweight construction, the new BMW M3 CS features carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components, increased engine power and a bespoke chassis setup. Exclusive design features and specification ensure exhilarating performance and give the new BMW M3 CS a character profile all its own.

The new BMW M3 CS teams a 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 62 mph time of 3.4 seconds and on to an electronically limited 188 mph top speed.

The new BMW M3 CS will be built in a limited run at BMW Group Plant Munich, with the UK market launch commencing from March 2023. Prices in the UK will start from £115,900 RRP. Along with the UK, the USA, Germany, and Japan are the most important markets for this new special model.

 

Straight-six engine produces 550 hp

The new BMW M3 CS features a carefully modified version of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine, with M TwinPower Turbo technology, developed for the BMW M3 and BMW M4. The modifications result in a maximum of 550 hp, a considerable upgrade of 40 hp in peak output compared with the BMW M3 Competition Saloon.

The power increase is achieved through targeted revisions to the engine’s M TwinPower Turbo technology. The adjustments primarily involve 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.

A specially designed engine mount, with increased spring rates, was also designed to create an extremely rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure. This results in an even sharper engine response and direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain. Peak torque of 650Nm is produced between 2,750 and 5,950rpm and maximum output arrives at 6,250rpm. The engine revs to a maximum 7,200rpm.

The engine’s performance characteristics are dominated by its unabated power delivery right through the rev range. Enhancing the soundtrack is the dual-branch exhaust system, featuring electrically controlled flaps and a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design. In customary M fashion, it features two pairs of matt black tailpipes which help produce the emotionally rich soundtrack.

^{*All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data, fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.
**Electronically limited.}

Optimal combination of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive and Active M Differential

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is operated using either the M-specific selector lever, on the centre console, or the carbon-fibre shift paddles on the steering wheel. The transmission’s shift characteristics can also be altered using the Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever - with the choice of comfort-oriented, sport 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. This 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 also 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.

This optimal combination of engine, transmission, and M xDrive help ensure exceptional acceleration times. The new BMW M3 CS takes just 3.4 seconds to reach 62 mph from rest and 11.1 seconds from 0- 124 mph. The 50 – 75 mph takes only 2.6 seconds (in 4th gear) and 3.3 seconds (in 5th gear). The M Driver’s Package is standard and has an electronically limited top speed of 188 mph.

Bespoke chassis set-up; track tyres as standard

The chassis technology in the new BMW M3 CS has been tuned precisely to the engine’s performance characteristics and to complement the overall vehicle concept and 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.

Individually tuned axle kinematics and bespoke wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs, and anti-roll bars help optimise steering precision, transmission of lateral forces and spring and damping response.  The new BMW M3 CS also features a model-specific setup of the adaptive M suspension and its electromechanical M Servotronic steering - with its variable ratio and integrated braking system.

Standard specification for the new BMW M3 CS includes M Compound brakes with the brake callipers painted in red. Optional M Carbon ceramic brakes are also available, with brake callipers in matt gold or red. The standard equipment list also includes forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive V-spoke design, with a gold bronze finish or an optional matt black finish. Measuring 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear, they are shod with track tyres that have been purpose-developed for this special-edition model, measuring 275/35 ZR19 and 285/30 ZR20 at the front and rear respectively.

Lightweight construction, extensive use of carbon fibre and improved body rigidity

Extensive lightweight construction, with the use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components both inside and out, has enhanced the performance and character of the new BMW M3 CS.

Featuring a carbon fibre roof, the new BMW M3 CS also uses 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 also all manufactured from CFRP. The standard M Carbon bucket seats also help reduce weight, as does the titanium rear silencer - resulting in a reduction of four kilograms off the weight of the exhaust system.

The various lightweight design measures bring a total weight saving of 20 kilograms, compared to the BMW M3 Competition Saloon with M xDrive. Body rigidity has been further increased by 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 to the forces applied in various driving situations.

Unique design features

The new BMW M3 CS features numerous individual design features. Exclusive to this latest special-edition model from BMW M GmbH is the Frozen Solid White paint. 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 this new paint. Signal Green, Brooklyn Grey and Sapphire Black are available as alternative exterior colours.

The vehicle’s front end sports a weight-saving, frameless BMW kidney grille with a stripped-back design - reminiscent of a racing car. Unique to this model, red contour lines are featured along with 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.

BMW Laserlight headlights, also included as part of the standard specification, add a particularly striking and distinct look 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 stitching

The inside of the new BMW M3 CS has been designed with driving pleasure and maximum performance in mind, enhanced by advanced digital technology and exclusive design elements.

The M Carbon bucket seats in a model-specific design, and fitted as standard, greet both the driver and front passenger. Fully electric and heated, they include integral head restraints along with an illuminated model badge. This results 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, reflect the seats’ weight-minimising construction.

The seats 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 rear seats. 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 interior equipment list 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 designation “M3 CS”; an anthracite-coloured headliner; interior trim strips in a carbon fibre finish and an M Alcantara steering wheel with CFRP shift paddles and a red centre marker.

Setup button to customise 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 also be stored permanently: the preferred settings can be set up 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 simply 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. It therefore not only benefits from the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer functions, for evaluating and recording driving skills and performance at the track, but also comes with M Traction Control - whose ten stages provide the ideal tool for driving 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

The latest generation of BMW iDrive, based on BMW Operating System 8, is standard in the new car which includes the BMW Curved Display for the cockpit. This features 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 layout offers M-specific read-outs and driving-related content to help provide a focused, performance-led driving experience. All 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.

Added enjoyment and comfort during everyday driving – all standard features

BMW Live Cockpit Professional, fitted as standard, incorporates the BMW Maps navigation system, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a WiFi interface.

The new BMW M3 CS is also equipped - as standard - with the latest version of Comfort Access, two-zone automatic climate control, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system.

Additionally, BMW M GmbH’s latest special-edition model, includes the BMW Head-Up Display (with M-specific readouts) and the BMW Drive Recorder. An alarm system, automatic boot lid operation and the Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant systems are also included.

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 over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2021 was € 16.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 111.2 billion. As of 31 December 2021, the BMW Group had a workforce of 118,909 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

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For further information please contact:

Martin Harrison
Media Relations Officer
Tel: 07815 377 083
Email: Martin.Harrison@bmw.co.uk

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

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@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. BMW M GmbH will be focusing its activities at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed (23rd to 26th June) on its 50th birthday celebrations. BMW M is showcasing numerous models from the past, present and future to mark the occasion. This includes global debuts like the one of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring MotoGP™ Safety Car. Festival visitors will be among the first people able to take a close look at the newest safety car from BMW M, the ‘Official Car of MotoGP™’ since 1999. The BMW M3 Touring MotoGP™ Safety Car will also make its first race appearance in Great Britain, in early August at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

The newest member of the safety car fleet is based on the first-ever BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive (fuel consumption, combined: 10.4 – 10.1 l/100km correspond to WLTP, CO₂ emissions, combined: 235 – 229 g/km correspond to WLTP)*, which is also set to celebrate its global debut in Goodwood. It combines the high level of technological capability, performance and know-how of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 family with the practical nature of a five-door touring model. Both cars, the series production vehicle and the safety car, will be unveiled on Thursday 23rd June at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and will then take place in the renowned hillclimb race on all festival days.

“The world premiere of the new BMW M3 Touring represents another highlight in our anniversary year, as we will be introducing a BMW M3 as a touring model for the very first time in our 50-year history,” said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “Including this new high-performance automobile in our fleet of MotoGP safety cars is the obvious next step for us. Throughout our decades of partnership with MotoGP rights owner Dorna Sports, we have always set great store by providing the newest BMW M models for safety purposes at the circuit, and we are continuing this tradition with the BMW M3 Touring MotoGP Safety Car. We are very much looking forward to seeing it perform at the legendary Goodwood hillclimb and then appear later in the races at the top level of motorsport.”

The visual appearance of the new BMW M3 Touring MotoGP™ Safety Car is a tribute to 50 years of BMW M and to the decades of partnership with MotoGP™. The safety car will sport a special 50 Years of BMW M Livery, and all MotoGP™ safety cars from 1999 to the present day are listed on the car.

The BMW M3 Touring MotoGP™ Safety Car will be equipped with the entire product range from BMW M Performance Parts for its appearance on the racetrack. Further modifications to the MotoGP™ safety cars include Recaro race seats, 4-point harness, safety cross beam, roof lights, front flashes, emergency disconnector and a fuel extraction system.

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

Please find attached on location pictures of the BMW M activation at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Images include the world premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring, the striking BMW M ‘Central Feature’ outside Goodwood House, BMW M at Trackside and BMW i at The Stable Yard.

For more information on BMW at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2022, click here. The BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive press kit can be found here.

Follow the latest from BMW M at Goodwood Festival of Speed on BMW UK social channels (Instagram / Facebook / Twitter).

The BMW M3 model family is welcoming a Touring addition to the ranks for the first time, offering an intoxicating blend of exhilarating performance and practicality.

Offered exclusively in Competition guise with the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the BMW M3 Touring combines that race-car feeling with a distinctive character and immense versatility.

Power generated by the 510hp six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology is channelled via the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and split between the four wheels as required. As a result, the BMW M3 Touring delivers blistering performance at all times both on the road and on the track. Agility and precision in the familiar BMW M tradition combine with unrestricted everyday practicality to give the BMW M3 Touring a distinctive identity showcased by its exterior design.

The BMW M3 Touring is priced from £80,550 RRP with orders open at BMW retailers now. The highly anticipated M model will celebrate its global premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on Thursday 23 June.

M-specific BMW kidney grille, large air intakes, flared wheel arches and side skirts
Its M-specific front end ensures the Touring is immediately recognisable as a member of the M3 family. At its centre is the vertical black frameless BMW kidney grille dropping down towards the road, its horizontally arranged M-typical double bars carrying a “M3 Competition” badge. The large intakes positioned in the lower section of the front apron optimise the supply of air to the drive components and braking system. The apertures are each split into two sections and have honeycomb mesh covers.

When viewed from the side, the distinctive proportions of the Touring blend with its flared wheel arches, characteristic M gills and extended side skirts. Together with the attachment parts for the front and rear aprons, the sills form a Black high-gloss band around the car. This racing-inspired body element teams up with the front spoiler lip, aero flics for the air curtains and brace covers in the underbody area to enhance the car’s aerodynamic balance. The exterior mirrors in M-specific design with a Black high-gloss finish also optimise airflow.

Full-LED headlights with U-shaped fibre-optic light guides for the daytime driving lights are standard for the BMW M3 Touring, as are BMW Individual lights Shadow Line with darkened inlays adorning their upper edges. The optional BMW Laserlight available as part of the Visibility package can be identified by the blue inlays inside the headlight units. It includes the cornering light and adaptive cornering functions with variable road illumination optimised for urban and motorway driving, plus the BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling High-beam Assistant. At speeds above 37mph, BMW Laserlight increases high-beam range to a maximum 550 metres and follows the course of the road dynamically.

The BMW M3 Touring is 85mm longer externally than the BMW 3 Series Touring at 4,794mm, 76mm wider (1,903mm) and 4mm lower (1,436mm). It also has particularly large light-alloy wheels – 19-inch at the front, 20-inch at the rear – in double-spoke design as standard in Jet Black or optionally in bi-colour diamond polished finish. M forged wheels with a double-spoke design can also be specified as an option in either bi-colour Jet Black or Orbit Grey matt. Special track tyres are also available as an option.

M Carbon exterior package accentuates motorsport character
The optional M Carbon exterior package enhances the race-inspired nature of the BMW M3 Touring. The selection of high-quality, weight-minimised components comprises inlays for the front air intakes and a rear diffuser with their own individual geometry, plus exterior mirror caps in carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

A rear compartment with exceptional practicality
Among the elements that set the BMW M3 Touring apart are its versatility and space. It has three full-size rear seats with the backrest able to be split 40:20:40, depending on how many passengers and how much cargo needs to be carried. In this way, the load capacity of the BMW M3 Touring can grow from 500 litres to 1,510 litres.

Standard specification also includes automatic tailgate operation as well as a rear window that opens separately as on BMW Touring models. Options include rubberised anti-slip rails that rise up from the boot floor after the tailgate has been closed, preventing items of luggage sliding around when cornering and buttons to automatically fold the rear seats from the boot. Both features are also available as part of the optional Comfort pack.

M-specific interior features
The cockpit design combines with M-specific design features including red colour accents for the M buttons on the M leather steering wheel and the Start/Stop button on the centre console. The gear selector lever with Drivelogic switch has a leather surface with embedded M logo and stitching in BMW M GmbH colours. It also features an eye-catching cut-out with integrated cascade lighting. An anthracite-coloured BMW M headliner and interior trim strips in Carbon Fibre high-gloss are standard.

The Merino leather-trimmed M Sport seats fitted as standard in the front of the BMW M3 Touring include multi-way electric adjustment with a memory function, and are also heated. M seat belts with a woven stripe pattern in BMW M GmbH colours are also included.

Racing flair meets long-distance comfort: M Carbon bucket seats
The optional M Carbon bucket seats fuse racing flair, lightweight design, and long-distance comfort to unique effect. Also fully electric and heated, they feature integral head restraints and an illuminated model badge. The use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest together with the cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints saves 9.6kg over the standard M Sport seats.

New cockpit design with BMW Curved Display
The BMW Curved Display is made up of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display of 14.9 inches, which merge into a single fully digital and high-resolution unit behind a frameless glass surface angled towards the driver. A number of special widgets are also available in the BMW M3 Touring containing information on the current vehicle setup, as well as tyre pressure and temperature. The BMW Curved Display enables the number of buttons and controls to be significantly reduced, with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and BMW Operating System 8 permitting intuitive operation using voice control and the touchscreen.

The cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system forms part of the standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which also adds the BMW Head-Up Display with M specific readouts. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come as standard as does wireless charging. The BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades functionality allows new and improved vehicle functions to be imported into the BMW M3 Touring over the air.

High-quality comfort features and modern functionality
Acoustic glazing for the windscreen, three-zone automatic climate control, an automatically dimming rear-view mirror and automatically dimming exterior mirrors that also fold in electrically all come as standard, as do a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation, customisable ambient lighting, electroplated controls in the door trim, and the Harman Kardon surround sound system. A heated steering wheel and Comfort Access, are some of the optional extras.

Six-cylinder in-line engine with instantaneous power delivery
The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line unit stands out with its urgent power delivery and a healthy appetite for revs. The engine puts maximum torque of 650Nm between 2,750 and 5,500rpm and produces peak output of 510hp when the revs hit 6,250rpm. Its red line is 7,200 rpm.

All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data, fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.
*Electronically limited.

The straight-six engine powering the BMW M3 Touring also forms the basis for the unit in the new BMW M4 GT3 endurance racing car. Its power output, efficiency and track ability are therefore partly down to numerous components developed on the back of BMW M GmbH’s years of racing experience. These include a rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, a forged lightweight crankshaft and a cylinder head with a core manufactured using 3D printing.

Two mono-scroll turbochargers with electronically controlled wastegates supply compressed air to the combustion chambers. An indirect intercooler supplied by a low-temperature circuit increases the effectiveness of the turbocharger. And the direct petrol injection technology operates at pressures of up to 350 bar with exceptional precision and efficiency. VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing likewise form part of the M TwinPower Turbo technology. Meanwhile, the M-specific exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps generates a rich soundtrack.

The oil supply system has been designed to handle dynamic driving during track use. An additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant from the smaller chamber, which steps in when extra capacity is needed.

The engine’s signature M performance profile, combined with the enhanced traction offered by M xDrive, translates into stunning acceleration times. The BMW M3 Touring takes just 3.6 seconds to power from 0 to 62mph and 12.9 seconds to reach 124mph from rest. The sprint from 50 – 75mph is over in 2.7 seconds (in 4th gear) or 3.5 seconds (in 5th gear). Opting for the M Driver’s Package increases the electronically limited top speed from 155 to 174mph.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic
The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic fitted as standard is perfectly attuned to the engine’s performance characteristics. A direct connection to the engine and remarkably quick gear shifts lend themselves to a performance-focused driving style, as do engine speed adjustment on downshifts in automatic mode and the ability to change straight to the lowest possible gear in manual mode.

The M Steptronic transmission allows both fully automated gear changes and manual shifts using the M-specific selector lever or the standard shift paddles on the steering wheel. Nudging either paddle allows the driver to temporarily switch from automated to manual mode in an instant. It is also possible to execute multiple downshifts to the lowest available gear in manual mode by pulling on the left shift paddle while pressing the accelerator to the floor. M Steptronic does not force upshifts under acceleration in manual mode – even when the engine’s revs hit the limiter.

The driver can use the Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics, with three clearly distinguishable settings in both automated and manual mode. As well as a comfort-oriented setup and a setting for sporty driving, drivers can activate a track-optimised configuration for the shift characteristics.

M xDrive all-wheel-drive system optimises traction and performance
The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case to ensure fully variable distribution of the engine’s power between the front and rear wheels. Its rear-wheel bias adds to the M feeling while enhancing both traction and agility. The system features integrated wheel slip control for quick adjustments to power transmission. This intensifies the sense of unruffled poise for which M models are renowned.

Teaming up with the all-wheel drive is the Active M Differential that ensures fully variable distribution of the drive torque between the rear wheels. This helps to plant power firmly on the road without losses, especially when the car is being pushed hard or has less grip on one side. The M xDrive system and Active M Differential, with its built-in M-specific traction control, link up with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to ensure precise interaction.

M xDrive also allows the driver to tailor its characteristics to their individual preferences. In the default 4WD setting, the all-wheel-drive system offers maximum traction while maintaining a distinctly rear-biased power split. Activating 4WD Sport mode directs a greater proportion of torque to the rear wheels, enhancing agility. The linear build-up of lateral acceleration forces characteristic of M models now makes it possible to execute controlled drifts. Drivers can also switch off the DSC system altogether and engage 2WD mode. In this setting, drive power is relayed solely to the rear wheels, with traction finely adjusted through ten stages with the standard M Traction Control feature.

M-specific bracing elements and chassis components
Torsional rigidity is enhanced by specific strengthening links connecting the strut towers with one another and the nose of the car and bulkhead. Vertical braces bond the stiffening elements of the engine compartment to the front axle subframe, whose supporting base is elevated by a specific connection point in the lower section of the A-pillar. In addition, the front axle subframe is given extra rigidity by a single-piece aluminium shear panel with integrated sill braces. The centre and rear sections of the body incorporate model-specific underfloor bracing elements including a cross-bar, load compartment stiffening measures and a bespoke rear axle subframe with a rigid connection to the body.

The M-specific double-joint spring strut front axle takes into account the requirements of the all-wheel-drive system. It features specially adapted axle geometry and an individually tuned steering ratio. The axle kinematics, the camber, castor and kingpin angles, and the lowered roll centre are all designed to maximise lateral dynamic ability while still ensuring well-resolved ride comfort. Aluminium wishbones with ball joints, an aluminium torque arm with newly developed mounting, a forged swivel bearing with bespoke spring strut clamp, and wheel bearings with very high camber stability create an ideal blend of rigidity and lightweight design at the front axle. The five-link rear axle has M-specific wheel carriers and wishbones.

M Servotronic steering with variable ratio
The M Servotronic steering delivers accurate turn-in and finely judged communication of steering commands. The driver can also dip into the M Setup menu to call up either of the two steering settings. Comfort mode offers an easy steering feel with precise feedback, while in Sport mode the feel through the wheel rim and the steering force required are dialled up noticeably.

The variable ratio that adjusts to changes in steering angle also helps to give the car excellent directional accuracy through corners and superb straight-line poise. When the wheels are sharply turned, the steering rack teeth are positioned more closely together, so smaller steering inputs are required. As a result, the BMW M3 Touring feels particularly nimble when negotiating tight corners. The steering effort required when parking is also reduced by the closer positioning of the rack teeth with large steering angles. And ease of use is further enhanced at low speeds by the increased power assistance provided by Servotronic.

Adaptive M suspension optimises traction and ride comfort
Adaptive M suspension is a standard feature of the BMW M3 Touring. Its electronically controlled shock absorbers optimise road contact and maintain traction. The shock absorber control unit uses sensors to keep a constant watch on body movements, the condition of the road and steering adjustments. Electromagnetically controlled valves act in milliseconds to generate the required damping force – infinitely variably and for each wheel.

The basic shock absorber characteristics can be adjusted via the M Setup menu. Comfort mode optimises everyday journeys and long trips by smoothing out road imperfections. Switching to Sport brings appreciably stiffer damper responses. Sport Plus mode initiates an additional damper setting that unlocks maximum performance on smooth race circuits.

M specific version of the integrated braking system
The powerful M Compound braking system fitted as standard on the BMW M3 Touring combines six-piston fixed-calliper brakes for the front wheels with single-piston floating-calliper brakes at the rear. The M Carbon ceramic brakes available as an option offer even stronger braking power, a greater ability to withstand fade, enhanced thermal stability and high resistance to wear.

A shared feature of both brake variants is the integrated braking system. This system brings together the brake activation, brake booster and braking control functions within a compact module. The system allows vehicle deceleration to be geared precisely to the driver’s requirements while the M-specific version of the system presents the driver with two pedal feel settings via the Setup menu.

M Traction Control allows drivers to select the degree of wheel slip
The BMW M3 Touring offers the M Traction Control function as standard. This allows the driver to set their desired intervention thresholds for wheel slip when the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system is in 2WD mode. Accessed via the iDrive control/operation system, ten stages of slip are permitted at the rear wheels.

M Mode button: pure performance at the push of a button
On switching from the default ROAD setting to SPORT mode, interventions from the driver assistance systems are suspended, with the exception of inputs from the Collision Warning and the Evasion Assistant. The TRACK mode designed purely for driving on race circuits fully deactivates the assistance systems. SPORT and TRACK modes both reduce the content shown in the information display, while various readouts can also be called up on the left of the information display, including charge pressure and coolant temperature, tyre pressure and tyre temperature or longitudinal and lateral acceleration.

Individual configuration using the Setup button
The Setup button, part of the M-specific control/operation system, provides direct access to the settings options for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M xDrive, enabling the driver to tailor the overall vehicle setup to their individual preferences. Two setup variants can be stored, together with the preferred settings for the engine note, driving stability control, Automatic Start/Stop function and shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. The desired configuration can then be activated at any time by pressing one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel.

M Drive Professional with M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer
Part of M Drive Professional, the M Drift Analyser helps the driver to sharpen their cornering skills using deliberate oversteer and precise counter-steering, making a note of the duration, distance and angle of the driver’s latest drift. The analysis shown on the control display also includes a score on a scale from one to five stars and a comparison with the driver’s best drift to date. The M Laptimer records track lap times, while a readout in the control display keeps the driver informed of the time margin compared to their fastest recorded lap.

Intensifying the experience: M Driver’s Pack, M Pro Pack
The M Driver’s Pack raises the electronically limited top speed of the BMW M3 Touring from 155mph to 174mph. The optional M Pro Pack comprises M Carbon ceramic brakes and the M Driver’s Pack, taking the performance experience to new heights.

Driver assistance systems: comfort and safety
The BMW M3 Touring is equipped as standard with Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, Cruise Control with brake function, Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, Lane Departure Warning including lane return with steering assistance, the Attentiveness Assistant, and the Speed Limit Info system.

Also standard is Driving Assistant which adds lane change warning, rear crossing traffic warning and Rear Collision Prevention functions. Driving Assistant Professional, meanwhile, features Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, , Steering and Lane Control Assistant.

The BMW M3 Touring is available to order now, priced from £80,550 RRP.

Ends

<sup>All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and emissions are provisional.All of the stated technical data, fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer ta vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.

The fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany and the range shown considers the different sizes of wheels/tyres and the range of optional equipment.

All values were calculated based on the WLTP test cycle. WLTP values are taken as the basis for determining vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter olio) on CO, emissions as well as eligibility for any applicable vehicle-specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfoden uber den Kroftstoffverbrouch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrouch neuer Personenkroftwogen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars). which can be obtained free of charge from Deutsche Automobil Treuhond GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-St,. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Schornhousen and at https://www.dot.de/co2.</sup>

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 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2021 was € 16.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 111.2 billion. As of 31 December 2021, the BMW Group had a workforce of 118,909 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Helen Wilson
Senior Press Officer
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

• Honoured marque BMW M GmbH celebrates 50th anniversary at 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed
• Striking ‘Central Feature’ outside Goodwood House showcases iconic models from BMW M
• World premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring, UK premiere of the all-new BMW M4 CSL
• BMW Group Classic joins the celebration with historic racing cars displayed on the Central Feature and participating in the Hillclimb
• First-ever BMW iX1 and BMW i7 on display at the Stable Yard
  iX M60, i4 M50, BMW i4 eDrive40 and iX3 available for test drives on Friday

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.

Ends

About BMW M GmbH
BMW’s Motorsport division was launched in May 1972. It soon became one of the world’s most successful racing departments and today BMW M GmbH delivers compelling driving experiences on the road, as well as on the racetrack.  In 2021, BMW M GmbH was the global market leader in the performance car and high-performance car segments for the third year running, delivering a total of 163,542 BMW M vehicles to customers worldwide. This year sees BMW M celebrate its 50th anniversary, with a number of exciting launches and celebrations planned throughout the year.

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 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:
Helen Wilson
Senior Press Officer
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

• Bespoke M xDrive all-wheel drive system for new generation of midsize M models
• Enhanced traction enables both models to sprint from 0-62 mph in 3.5 seconds – 0.4 seconds faster than the rear-wheel drive models
• Delivers track-focused performance with impeccable everyday usability
• BMW M3 Competition Saloon M xDrive priced from £78,425 OTR
• BMW M4 Competition Coupé M xDrive priced from £79,755 OTR
• Production commencing in July 2021

Only weeks after launching the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and BMW M4 Competition Coupé in the UK, BMW M GmbH is set to add 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.

With more driven wheels, the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé M xDrive take the exclusive M feeling to an even higher level. The improvements in traction, handling stability and agility enable both models to reach 62mph from standstill in only 3.5 seconds, making them 0.4 seconds quicker on the sprint than their rear-wheel drive counterparts.

The power from the 510hp 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. The all-wheel drive system has a rear-biased setup in classic M style. This system allows the driver to experience even more of the hallmark M performance characteristics reflected, among other things, in even quicker acceleration.

^{** Electronically governed.
*** Preliminary on-the-road pricing, subject to confirmation of VED bands.}

By introducing the M xDrive versions to the range, BMW M GmbH now offers an unrivalled variety of high-performance midsize models. All four versions of the latest model generation provide their own individual recipe for an exhilarating high-performance sports car that offers unrestricted everyday usability.

The production of the BMW M3 Competition Saloon M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé M xDrive will get underway in July 2021.

Customers will enjoy even more choice later in the year when these new models will be joined by the latest version of the BMW M4 Convertible.

M xDrive and Active M Differential for superior handling dynamics

The M xDrive system’s specially tuned power transmission control already provides an entertaining alternative to 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 that also ensures fully variable distribution of drive torque between the rear wheels as the situation demands. This helps to transfer the 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 is to produce a supremely dynamic driving experience that blends 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 Saloon 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 set-up in classic M style. Normally, the drive power is channelled entirely to the rear wheels, 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 and supreme handling for which M models are renowned in dynamic driving situations, such as powering through corners in a controlled drift.

Both models put their power down via standard M light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front and 20 inches at the rear. The forged wheels in twin-spoke design with a Bicolour Jet Black finish are fitted with 275/35 R19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R20s 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 Saloon M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé M xDrive is complemented by a double-joint spring strut front axle redesigned for these models and it features 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 counterparts 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 an individualised 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 precision handling while always maintaining a distinctly rear-biased power split. Activating 4WD Sport mode directs an even greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. 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.

With the standard-fit M Traction Control on UK models, 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 pure driving experience and hone their skills with the help of the 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.

Ends

^{* Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.
The details marked * have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle and adapted to NEDC for comparison purposes. In these vehicles, different figures than those published here may apply for the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related duties which are (also) based on CO2 emissions.
For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.}

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 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 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.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Helen Wilson
Senior Press Officer, BMW & MINI Communications
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

Thirty five years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW is presenting the latest generation of its high-performance models that fuse track-focused performance with everyday usability.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé occupy very different territory - one a saloon with space for five occupants, the other a four-seater coupé - but they both achieve their common goal of delivering pure driving pleasure.

Class-leading levels of standard equipment plus options that take individualisation to new heights, especially for racetrack outings, ensure both models will continue the success of their formidable predecessors.

Optional equipment is offered in six main packages – Comfort, Technology Plus, Visibility, M Carbon, M Pro and Ultimate. Beyond these packages, there will be a select number of optional items including M Brakes in red, blue or black, M Carbon exterior, M Carbon seats and Park Assistant Plus with Drive Recorder.

Under the bonnet of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé lies a 510hp high-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, which teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission as it sends its power to the rear wheels.

Both models will also be available (from summer 2021) with M xDrive, which offers even greater directional stability and supreme traction without compromising on agility.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon is built at BMW Plant Munich, while the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé is produced at BMW Plant Dingolfing. The market launch for both models is Saturday 13 March, 2021.

Straight-six engine delivers high performance in signature M high-revving style
The engine powering the new high-performance models sets a new high point in terms of output and torque for six-cylinder in-line petrol units from BMW. The power unit offers 60hp more than the maximum output of its predecessor models and increases its peak torque by 100Nm.

The new 3.0-litre straight-six engine combines the hallmark high-revving character of BMW M engines with the latest version of M TwinPower Turbo technology. The engine maintains peak torque up to the moment where maximum output is reached: 650Nm is on tap between 2,700 and 5,500rpm, from when maximum output of 510hp is sustained up to the 7,200rpm red line.

The M3 Competition Saloon and M4 Competition Coupé accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph, rising to 180mph if the optional M Pro Package is specified.

*Provisional figures.

Bespoke M TwinPower Turbo technology
A bespoke version of M TwinPower Turbo technology includes two mono-scroll turbochargers that supply compressed air to cylinders 1–3 and 4–6 respectively. An indirect intercooler optimises the power output of the charger and its electronically controlled wastegate supports the turbochargers’ instantaneous responsiveness and heightens the effectiveness of the catalytic converters.

Other elements of M TwinPower Turbo technology include VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. Both models meet the Euro 6d exhaust emissions standard.

Cooling system and oil supply designed for track use
The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé use a bespoke cooling system to ensure an optimal operating temperature in all conditions. It includes a low-temperature system that contributes to cooling the intercooler and a high-temperature system that cools the engine block and the two turbochargers.

Meanwhile, the oil supply system has also been designed to meet the challenges of dynamic track driving. The engine’s weight-minimised oil sump has two separate chambers and an integrated suction channel, while the additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant from the smaller chamber when extra capacity is needed.

Exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps delivers a distinctive soundtrack
A dual-branch exhaust system reduces back pressure, but also produces a fantastic soundtrack. It leads into a high-capacity rear silencer with a quartet of tailpipes finished in Black Chrome.

Electrically controlled, fully adjustable flaps suppress intrusive frequency ranges, increasing comfort levels while the sound is also influenced by the engine mode selected - the driver can choose either SPORT or SPORT+ mode using the relevant button on the centre console. It is also possible to alter the engine’s aural impact using the M Sound Control button on the centre console.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard
Both models use a specially tuned eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The M Steptronic transmission enables both fully automatic gear changes and manual shifts with sequential gear selection. Fitted as standard along with the newly designed selector lever are carbon gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. With a simple tap of a paddle the driver can switch from automatic to manual mode.

The transmission’s shift characteristics are adjusted using the Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever. The driver can access three clearly distinct setups – comfort oriented, sports focused or track optimised.

M xDrive all-wheel-drive system optimises traction and performance
For the first time in the history of the BMW M3 and BMW M4, customers will be able to specify an all-wheel-drive system – expected from summer 2021 – as an alternative to traditional rear-wheel drive.

The engine’s power is distributed between the front and rear wheels via the transfer case’s electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, before the Active M Differential splits it again between the two rear wheels.

The specially developed system significantly enhances acceleration from standstill and the driver can configure the distribution of power as required via the Setup menu. In the default 4WD setting, signature M rear-biased power transmission goes hand-in-hand with unshakable traction and precisely controllable handling. 4WD Sport mode directs a greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels to optimise track performance. Switching off DSC brings 2WD mode into the equation, with no intervention from the control systems.

Chassis delivers hallmark M precision and scope for individualisation
Both new models also include advances in body rigidity and aerodynamic efficiency, plus optimised, tuned chassis technology. A long wheelbase and wide tracks, a low centre of gravity and virtually 50:50 weight distribution, plus stiffer, stronger and M-specific body and chassis mountings contribute to excellent driving dynamics.

Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers
The electronically controlled shock absorbers in the standard adaptive M suspension optimise road contact and traction in every situation with the use of electromagnetically controlled valves that act in just a few milliseconds to generate the required damping force. It is infinitely variable, and for each individual wheel.

Basic damper characteristics can be adjusted via the M Setup menu. The driver can select from three modes – COMFORT, SPORT and the track-focused SPORT PLUS.

Integrated braking system with two pedal feel settings
In standard form, the newly developed M Compound brakes comprise six-piston fixed-calliper brakes with 380mm discs at the front and single-piston floating-calliper brakes (including parking brake) with 370mm discs at the rear. The callipers are available for the first time in either black or red in addition to the blue callipers known from the predecessor models; all bear the M logo.

The optional M Carbon ceramic brakes, available as part of the M Pro Package, offer even stronger braking power and durability. Their callipers – painted in Gold metallic – engage with 400mm discs at the front and 380mm items at the rear.

A shared feature of both brake variants is the integrated braking system, where the brake actuation, braking force assistance and braking control functions are brought together within a compact module. The integrated braking system allows vehicle deceleration to be geared precisely to the driver’s requirements.

The M-specific version of the integrated braking system additionally presents the driver with two pedal feel settings – COMFORT and SPORT, which can be selected via the M Setup menu.

DSC with M Dynamic Mode and ten-stage traction control
The DSC functions in the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé work even more effectively with the integrated braking system.

Along with the M-specific Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC), the integrated braking system also benefits the stability control function, as well as the Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), Brake Assist, Dry Braking and Start-Off Assistant functions. Competition models add the Automatic Hold function.

The new integrated wheel-slip limitation function provides more sensitive acceleration control on wet, snow-covered or icy surfaces or on uneven roads.

The driver can also activate M Dynamic Mode using a button on the centre console. This mode allows a greater degree of wheel slip, enabling controlled drifts to be achieved. Also selectable at the push of a button is DSC Off mode.

With M Drive Professional, drivers also benefit from the new M Traction Control function. Making its debut in the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé, this new form of traction control allows the driver to set the intervention thresholds for wheel-slip limitation.

With different stages of precisely defined slip at the driven wheels, the driver can find the perfect balance of racing-car performance and directional stability.

M Drive Professional: unbeatable performance on the race track
The latest generation of the M-specific control/operation system contains a host of new features. Making its debut is M Drive Professional, which has been developed specifically for track driving. Included as standard, this allows the driver to make consistent progress in their pursuit of the ideal line and the perfect lap. For example, the driver’s ability to pilot the car through corners with plenty of oversteer and opposite lock is recorded by the M Drift Analyser, activated via the iDrive menu.

Other functions of M Drive Professional include the M Laptimer, also accessed via the iDrive menu, which delivers a far-reaching race performance analysis. The driver can also analyse the data recorded during their track outing in detail using the BMW M Laptimer app on their Apple iPhone – and share selected information with the online community if they wish.

Enhanced individualisation of the powertrain and chassis via the Setup button
As in the predecessor models, drivers of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé can activate various settings for the engine, chassis and steering independently of one another. In addition, the braking system and traction control can now also be configured as required.

The new Setup button on the centre console provides direct access to the settings options for the seven powertrain and chassis parameters. Depending on the model variant and the car’s specification, the Gear Shift Assistant, M xDrive and traction can also be controlled via the button in just a single step.

Two individually configured M Setup variants can be stored permanently, together with the preferred settings for the engine noise, the driving stability control system, the Auto Start-Stop function and the shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.

Pure driving pleasure at your fingertips: the M Mode button
The control panel on the centre console of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé also houses the M Mode button.

This can be used to adjust the responses and characteristics of the driver assistance systems and the displays in the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. The driver can choose from ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.

In the basic ROAD setting, all the standard and optional driver assistance systems are fully activated. In the SPORT setting, the driver assistance systems activated through the driver’s chosen configuration limit themselves to warnings of speed limits and overtaking restrictions, for example.

Utilising M Drive Professional, drivers can also select TRACK mode, which is developed exclusively for driving on race circuits and includes the deactivation of all the comfort and safety functions of the driver assistance systems.

Driver assistance systems: comfort and safety as desired
Both models come as standard with Parking Assistant, Cruise control with braking function and Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, the Lane Departure Warning system including lane return with steering assistance, the Attentiveness Assistant and the Speed Limit Info system.

Also standard is Driving Assistant, which brings the Lane Change Warning, rear crossing traffic warning and Rear Collision Prevention into play. Customers can also add the Driving Assistant Professional as part of the optional Technology Plus Pack, which includes the Steering and Lane Control Assistant with new Active Navigation function. The new Emergency Lane Assistant, meanwhile, guides the car automatically to the most appropriate side of its lane in tailbacks on the motorway.

The Parking Assistant comprises functions such as the Reversing Assistant, while Parking Assistant Plus, available individually or as part of the optional Technology Plus Package, adds Surround View and Remote 3D View.

Also included in this package is the BMW Drive Recorder which uses the driver assistance systems’ cameras to record video sequences outside the car of up to 40 seconds in length.

Standout styling from the M-specific kidney grille to the standard carbon roof
The distinctive, aerodynamically optimised exteriors of both new models perfectly convey their motorsport-inspired character. The BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé add 122mm to the length of their predecessors and are 26mm and 17mm wider respectively.

Both models have a deep, frameless and all-black BMW kidney grille. The hallmark M double bars – now horizontally arranged – bear a model badge; either side of the grille are additional cooling intakes with honeycomb mesh covers.

Shadowline LED headlights, with darkened inlays adorning their upper edges are also standard. Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Laserlight including BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam assistant are available as the optional Visibility Package.

The most striking design feature alongside the prominently flared wheel arches are the extended side sills. Together with the attachment parts for the front and rear aprons, they form a High-gloss Black band around the whole of the car. The traditional M gills are integrated neatly into the front side panels and the M-specific High-gloss Black exterior mirrors have aerodynamically optimised contouring. The roof of both models is made from high-tech carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

Two fins running longitudinally over the CFRP roof optimise airflow, as does the rear spoiler, which is painted in High-gloss Black and has a central notch. The rear diffuser, finished in black and with eye-catching fins, frames the exhaust system’s pairs of tailpipes (each measuring 100mm in diameter). Darkened, full-LED rear light clusters with L-shaped taillights complete the rear end.

Exclusive exterior paint shades and optional M Carbon exterior package
Customers can now also specify their BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé in the new and exclusive exterior paint shades Sao Paulo Yellow non-metallic, Toronto Red metallic and Isle of Man Green metallic.

A model-specific M Carbon exterior package is also available, comprising of inlays for the newly designed wide front air intakes and a rear diffuser, exterior mirror caps and a rear spoiler all made from CFRP. It is available individually or as part of the optional M Carbon Package, which also includes the M Carbon bucket seats.

New M light-alloy wheels with larger diameter at the rear
The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and BMW M4 Competition Coupé come as standard with a new M light-alloy design using 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch wheels at the and, for the first time, with M brakes available in Blue, Red or Black.

Interior: ergonomic design intensifies M feeling
The latest interior design language introduced in the new BMW 3 Series and new BMW 4 Series Coupé has been taken to its sporting extreme in these two high-performance models.

Signature M details include red accents for the M buttons on the M leather steering wheel and the start/stop button on the centre console. The selector lever with-Drivelogic switch is leather surfaced with an embedded M logo and stitching in M colours.

An anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner and interior trim strips in Carbon Fibre High-gloss are standard. Fine-grain Merino black leather trim is standard as are M sport seats, which are electrically adjustable and heated. These seats have pronounced side bolsters, integrated head restraints and an illuminated model badge.

A highlight of the options list is the new M Carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger, which include CFRP in their construction and save 9.6kg over the standard M sport seats. These can be specified on their own or within the M Carbon Package.

An array of new additions to the standard and optional equipment lists ensure that comfort and functionality are also taken to new highs. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a fully digital display grouping, the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant are all standard.

BMW Live Cockpit Professional: fully digital display grouping with M-specific details
The fully digital display grouping – made up of a high-resolution instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch screen behind the steering wheel and a 10.25-inch Control Display – is part of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which is fitted as standard.

BMW Maps and optimised smartphone integration
BMW Live Cockpit Professional also includes a multimedia system, the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system, two USB ports for data transfer and a WiFi interface, plus a built-in SIM card with 4G LTE connectivity. This enables use of numerous other digital services including BMW TeleServices and Intelligent Emergency Call, Real Time Traffic Information with hazard warning, Remote Services and Concierge Services. Wireless charging for compatible smartphones is also part of the standard specification.

Optimised smartphone integration also features as standard. Alongside Apple CarPlay, Android Auto can now also be used via the car’s operating system. Meanwhile, the Remote Software Upgrade function enables improved vehicle functions and additional digital services to be imported into the car over the air.

Wide variety of option packages for enhancing comfort and individuality
The significant additions to the standard specification of the predecessor models and an attractive selection of option packages also help to enhance driving comfort. The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé are equipped as standard with three-zone automatic climate control, and configurable LED interior lighting with ambient lighting.  The BMW Head-Up Display, along with the 16 speaker Harman Kardon HiFi and BMW Gesture Control are added to the list of standard features, whilst on the outside Sun Protection glazing and new Shadowline Headlights feature for the first time.

Customers can choose from a variety of optional Packages – Comfort, M Carbon, Visibility, Technology Plus, M Pro and Ultimate. Each has been compiled to further elevate the M experience and tailor it to the customer’s preference, the individual components perfectly complementing each other.

M Pro Package: reduced weight, increased performance
The M Pro Package – offered for the first time for the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé – combines M Carbon ceramics with the M Driver package for customers who are focused on using their vehicle on the race circuit.

Improved choice and customisation
Customers of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé are being offered more choice than ever before. Alongside the choice of three standard brake callipers and the M Carbon ceramics, customers are able to choose any exterior paint colour from BMW Individual Paints – giving customers more bespoke paint options that any other model in the BMW range.

For the first time on the M3 and M4, customers will also have a choice between two wheel designs available in four colours. Available in 19” or 20” M Forged alloys, customers can chose between Double Spoke 826M in Bicolour Black or Jet Black or Double Spoke 825M in either Bicolour Black or Orbit Grey Matt.

Ends

All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional. The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany. The range shown considers the different sizes of the selected wheels/tyres and the selected items of optional equipment, and may vary during configuration.

The values shown are based on the new WLTP test cycle. With respect to these vehicles, for vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO2 emissions, the CO2 values may differ from the values stated here (depending on national legislation).

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline:

'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2 Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

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 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 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.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmwgroup/

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

• Latest generation M models blend searing performance with everyday usability 
• Powered by a 510hp 3.0-litre six cylinder in-line engine with bespoke M TwinPower Turbo technology
• Four brand new exterior colours; Sao Paulo Yellow, Skyscraper Grey, Isle of Man Green & Brooklyn Grey
• M xDrive all-wheel-drive versions to be available from summer 2021
• Enhanced M-specific control/operation system with M Drive Professional developed specifically for track

Thirty five years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW is presenting the latest generation of its high-performance models that fuse track-focused performance with everyday usability.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé occupy very different territory - one a saloon with space for five occupants, the other a four-seater coupé - but they both achieve their common goal of delivering pure driving pleasure.

Class-leading levels of standard equipment plus options that take individualisation to new heights, especially for racetrack outings, ensure both models will continue the success of their formidable predecessors.

Optional equipment is offered in six main packages – Comfort, Technology Plus, Visibility, M Carbon, M Pro and Ultimate. Beyond these packages, there will be a select number of optional items including M Brakes in red, blue or black, M Carbon exterior, M Carbon seats and Park Assistant Plus with Drive Recorder.

Under the bonnet of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé lies a 510hp high-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, which teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission as it sends its power to the rear wheels.

Both models will also be available (expected from summer 2021) with M xDrive, which offers even greater directional stability and supreme traction without compromising on agility.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon will be built at BMW Plant Munich, while the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé will be produced at BMW Plant Dingolfing with the market launch for both models in March 2021.

Straight-six engine delivers high performance in signature M high-revving style

The engine powering the new high-performance models sets a new high point in terms of output and torque for six-cylinder in-line petrol units from BMW. The power unit offers 60hp more than the maximum output of its predecessor models and increases its peak torque by 100Nm.

The new 3.0-litre straight-six engine combines the hallmark high-revving character of BMW M engines with the latest version of M TwinPower Turbo technology. The engine maintains peak torque up to the moment where maximum output is reached: 650Nm is on tap between 2,700 and 5,500rpm, from when maximum output of 510hp is sustained up to the 7,200rpm red line.

The M3 Competition Saloon and M4 Competition Coupé accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph, rising to 180mph if the optional M Pro Package is specified.

*Provisional figures.

Bespoke M TwinPower Turbo technology

A bespoke version of M TwinPower Turbo technology includes two mono-scroll turbochargers that supply compressed air to cylinders 1–3 and 4–6 respectively. An indirect intercooler optimises the power output of the charger and its electronically controlled wastegate supports the turbochargers’ instantaneous responsiveness and heightens the effectiveness of the catalytic converters.

Other elements of M TwinPower Turbo technology include VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. Both models meet the Euro 6d exhaust emissions standard.

 
Cooling system and oil supply designed for track use
The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé use a bespoke cooling system to ensure an optimal operating temperature in all conditions. It includes a low-temperature system that contributes to cooling the intercooler and a high-temperature system that cools the engine block and the two turbochargers.

Meanwhile, the oil supply system has also been designed to meet the challenges of dynamic track driving. The engine’s weight-minimised oil sump has two separate chambers and an integrated suction channel, while the additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant from the smaller chamber when extra capacity is needed.

Exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps delivers a distinctive soundtrack
A dual-branch exhaust system reduces back pressure, but also produces a fantastic soundtrack. It leads into a high-capacity rear silencer with a quartet of tailpipes finished in Black Chrome.

Electrically controlled, fully adjustable flaps suppress intrusive frequency ranges, increasing comfort levels while the sound is also influenced by the engine mode selected - the driver can choose either SPORT or SPORT+ mode using the relevant button on the centre console. It is also possible to alter the engine’s aural impact using the M Sound Control button on the centre console.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard

Both models use a specially tuned eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The M Steptronic transmission enables both fully automatic gear changes and manual shifts with sequential gear selection. Fitted as standard along with the newly designed selector lever are carbon gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. With a simple tap of a paddle the driver can switch from automatic to manual mode.

The transmission’s shift characteristics are adjusted using the Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever. The driver can access three clearly distinct setups – comfort oriented, sports focused or track optimised.

M xDrive all-wheel-drive system optimises traction and performance
For the first time in the history of the BMW M3 and BMW M4, customers will be able to specify an all-wheel-drive system – expected from summer 2021 – as an alternative to traditional rear-wheel drive.

The engine’s power is distributed between the front and rear wheels via the transfer case’s electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, before the Active M Differential splits it again between the two rear wheels.

The specially developed system significantly enhances acceleration from standstill and the driver can configure the distribution of power as required via the Setup menu. In the default 4WD setting, signature M rear-biased power transmission goes hand-in-hand with unshakable traction and precisely controllable handling. 4WD Sport mode directs a greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels to optimise track performance. Switching off DSC brings 2WD mode into the equation, with no intervention from the control systems.

Chassis delivers hallmark M precision and scope for individualisation
Both new models also include advances in body rigidity and aerodynamic efficiency, plus optimised, tuned chassis technology. A long wheelbase and wide tracks, a low centre of gravity and virtually 50:50 weight distribution, plus stiffer, stronger and M-specific body and chassis mountings contribute to excellent driving dynamics.

Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers
The electronically controlled shock absorbers in the standard adaptive M suspension optimise road contact and traction in every situation with the use of electromagnetically controlled valves that act in just a few milliseconds to generate the required damping force. It is infinitely variable, and for each individual wheel.

Basic damper characteristics can be adjusted via the M Setup menu. The driver can select from three modes – COMFORT, SPORT and the track-focused SPORT PLUS.

Integrated braking system with two pedal feel settings
In standard form, the newly developed M Compound brakes comprise six-piston fixed-calliper brakes with 380mm discs at the front and single-piston floating-calliper brakes (including parking brake) with 370mm discs at the rear. The callipers are available for the first time in either black or red in addition to the blue callipers known from the predecessor models; all bear the M logo.

The optional M Carbon ceramic brakes, available as part of the M Pro Package, offer even stronger braking power and durability. Their callipers – painted in Gold metallic – engage with 400mm discs at the front and 380mm items at the rear.

A shared feature of both brake variants is the integrated braking system, where the brake actuation, braking force assistance and braking control functions are brought together within a compact module. The integrated braking system allows vehicle deceleration to be geared precisely to the driver’s requirements.

The M-specific version of the integrated braking system additionally presents the driver with two pedal feel settings – COMFORT and SPORT, which can be selected via the M Setup menu.

DSC with M Dynamic Mode and ten-stage traction control
The DSC functions in the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé work even more effectively with the integrated braking system.

Along with the M-specific Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC), the integrated braking system also benefits the stability control function, as well as the Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), Brake Assist, Dry Braking and Start-Off Assistant functions. Competition models add the Automatic Hold function.

The new integrated wheel-slip limitation function provides more sensitive acceleration control on wet, snow-covered or icy surfaces or on uneven roads.

The driver can also activate M Dynamic Mode using a button on the centre console. This mode allows a greater degree of wheel slip, enabling controlled drifts to be achieved. Also selectable at the push of a button is DSC Off mode.

With M Drive Professional, drivers also benefit from the new M Traction Control function. Making its debut in the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé, this new form of traction control allows the driver to set the intervention thresholds for wheel-slip limitation.

With different stages of precisely defined slip at the driven wheels, the driver can find the perfect balance of racing-car performance and directional stability.

M Drive Professional: unbeatable performance on the race track
The latest generation of the M-specific control/operation system contains a host of new features. Making its debut is M Drive Professional, which has been developed specifically for track driving. Included as standard, this allows the driver to make consistent progress in their pursuit of the ideal line and the perfect lap. For example, the driver’s ability to pilot the car through corners with plenty of oversteer and opposite lock is recorded by the M Drift Analyser, activated via the iDrive menu.

Other functions of M Drive Professional include the M Laptimer, also accessed via the iDrive menu, which delivers a far-reaching race performance analysis. The driver can also analyse the data recorded during their track outing in detail using the BMW M Laptimer app on their Apple iPhone – and share selected information with the online community if they wish.

Enhanced individualisation of the powertrain and chassis via the Setup button

 As in the predecessor models, drivers of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé can activate various settings for the engine, chassis and steering independently of one another. In addition, the braking system and traction control can now also be configured as required.

The new Setup button on the centre console provides direct access to the settings options for the seven powertrain and chassis parameters. Depending on the model variant and the car’s specification, the Gear Shift Assistant, M xDrive and traction can also be controlled via the button in just a single step.

Two individually configured M Setup variants can be stored permanently, together with the preferred settings for the engine noise, the driving stability control system, the Auto Start-Stop function and the shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.

Pure driving pleasure at your fingertips: the M Mode button

The control panel on the centre console of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé also houses the M Mode button.

This can be used to adjust the responses and characteristics of the driver assistance systems and the displays in the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. The driver can choose from ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.

In the basic ROAD setting, all the standard and optional driver assistance systems are fully activated. In the SPORT setting, the driver assistance systems activated through the driver’s chosen configuration limit themselves to warnings of speed limits and overtaking restrictions, for example.

Utilising M Drive Professional, drivers can also select TRACK mode, which is developed exclusively for driving on race circuits and includes the deactivation of all the comfort and safety functions of the driver assistance systems.

Driver assistance systems: comfort and safety as desired
Both models come as standard with Parking Assistant, Cruise control with braking function and Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, the Lane Departure Warning system including lane return with steering assistance, the Attentiveness Assistant and the Speed Limit Info system.

Also standard is Driving Assistant, which brings the Lane Change Warning, rear crossing traffic warning and Rear Collision Prevention into play. Customers can also add the Driving Assistant Professional as part of the optional Technology Plus Pack, which includes the Steering and Lane Control Assistant with new Active Navigation function. The new Emergency Lane Assistant, meanwhile, guides the car automatically to the most appropriate side of its lane in tailbacks on the motorway.

The Parking Assistant comprises functions such as the Reversing Assistant, while Parking Assistant Plus, available individually or as part of the optional Technology Plus Package, adds Surround View and Remote 3D View.

Also included in this package is the BMW Drive Recorder which uses the driver assistance systems’ cameras to record video sequences outside the car of up to 40 seconds in length.

Standout styling from the M-specific kidney grille to the standard carbon roof

The distinctive, aerodynamically optimised exteriors of both new models perfectly convey their motorsport-inspired character. The BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé add 122mm to the length of their predecessors and are 26mm and 17mm wider respectively.

Both models have a deep, frameless and all-black BMW kidney grille. The hallmark M double bars – now horizontally arranged – bear a model badge; either side of the grille are additional cooling intakes with honeycomb mesh covers.

Shadowline LED headlights, with darkened inlays adorning their upper edges are also standard. Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Laserlight including BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam assistant are available as the optional Visibility Package.

The most striking design feature alongside the prominently flared wheel arches are the extended side sills. Together with the attachment parts for the front and rear aprons, they form a High-gloss Black band around the whole of the car. The traditional M gills are integrated neatly into the front side panels and the M-specific High-gloss Black exterior mirrors have aerodynamically optimised contouring. The roof of both models is made from high-tech carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

Two fins running longitudinally over the CFRP roof optimise airflow, as does the rear spoiler, which is painted in High-gloss Black and has a central notch. The rear diffuser, finished in black and with eye-catching fins, frames the exhaust system’s pairs of tailpipes (each measuring 100mm in diameter). Darkened, full-LED rear light clusters with L-shaped taillights complete the rear end.

Exclusive exterior paint shades and optional M Carbon exterior package
Customers can now also specify their BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé in the new and exclusive exterior paint shades Sao Paulo Yellow non-metallic, Toronto Red metallic and Isle of Man Green metallic.

A model-specific M Carbon exterior package is also available, comprising of inlays for the newly designed wide front air intakes and a rear diffuser, exterior mirror caps and a rear spoiler all made from CFRP. It is available individually or as part of the optional M Carbon Package, which also includes the M Carbon bucket seats.

New M light-alloy wheels with larger diameter at the rear
The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and BMW M4 Competition Coupé come as standard with a new M light-alloy design using 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch wheels at the and, for the first time, with M brakes available in Blue, Red or Black.

Interior: ergonomic design intensifies M feeling
The latest interior design language introduced in the new BMW 3 Series and new BMW 4 Series Coupé has been taken to its sporting extreme in these two high-performance models.

Signature M details include red accents for the M buttons on the M leather steering wheel and the start/stop button on the centre console. The selector lever with-Drivelogic switch is leather surfaced with an embedded M logo and stitching in M colours.

An anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner and interior trim strips in Carbon Fibre High-gloss are standard. Fine-grain Merino black leather trim is standard as are M sport seats, which are electrically adjustable and heated. These seats have pronounced side bolsters, integrated head restraints and an illuminated model badge.

A highlight of the options list is the new M Carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger, which include CFRP in their construction and save 9.6kg over the standard M sport seats. These can be specified on their own or within the M Carbon Package.

An array of new additions to the standard and optional equipment lists ensure that comfort and functionality are also taken to new highs. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a fully digital display grouping, the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant are all standard.

 
BMW Live Cockpit Professional: fully digital display grouping with M-specific details
The fully digital display grouping – made up of a high-resolution instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch screen behind the steering wheel and a 10.25-inch Control Display – is part of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which is fitted as standard.

BMW Maps and optimised smartphone integration
BMW Live Cockpit Professional also includes a multimedia system, the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system, two USB ports for data transfer and a WiFi interface, plus a built-in SIM card with 4G LTE connectivity. This enables use of numerous other digital services including BMW TeleServices and Intelligent Emergency Call, Real Time Traffic Information with hazard warning, Remote Services and Concierge Services. Wireless charging for compatible smartphones is also part of the standard specification.

Optimised smartphone integration also features as standard. Alongside Apple CarPlay, Android Auto can now also be used via the car’s operating system. Meanwhile, the Remote Software Upgrade function enables improved vehicle functions and additional digital services to be imported into the car over the air.

Wide variety of option packages for enhancing comfort and individuality
The significant additions to the standard specification of the predecessor models and an attractive selection of option packages also help to enhance driving comfort. The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé are equipped as standard with three-zone automatic climate control, and configurable LED interior lighting with ambient lighting.  The BMW Head-Up Display, along with the 16 speaker Harman Kardon HiFi and BMW Gesture Control are added to the list of standard features, whilst on the outside Sun Protection glazing and new Shadowline Headlights feature for the first time.

Customers can choose from a variety of optional Packages – Comfort, M Carbon, Visibility, Technology Plus, M Pro and Ultimate. Each has been compiled to further elevate the M experience and tailor it to the customer’s preference, the individual components perfectly complementing each other.

M Pro Package: reduced weight, increased performance
The M Pro Package – offered for the first time for the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé – combines M Carbon ceramics with the M Driver package for customers who are focused on using their vehicle on the race circuit.

Improved choice and customisation
Customers of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé are being offered more choice than ever before. Alongside the choice of three standard brake callipers and the M Carbon ceramics, customers are able to choose any exterior paint colour from BMW Individual Paints – giving customers more bespoke paint options that any other model in the BMW range.

For the first time on the M3 and M4, customers will also have a choice between two wheel designs available in four colours. Available in 19” or 20” M Forged alloys, customers can chose between Double Spoke 826M in Bicolour Black or Jet Black or Double Spoke 825M in either Bicolour Black or Orbit Grey Matt.

Ends

All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional. The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany. The range shown considers the different sizes of the selected wheels/tyres and the selected items of optional equipment, and may vary during configuration.

The values shown are based on the new WLTP test cycle. With respect to these vehicles, for vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO2 emissions, the CO2 values may differ from the values stated here (depending on national legislation).

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline:

'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2 Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.
 

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.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmwgroup/

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. How about an extra-large and highly variable luggage compartment in a high-performance sports car? What is presently still a rhetorical question will soon become a concrete offer. A few weeks prior to the world premiere of the all-new BMW M3 Sedan, there are increasing signs of unparalleled model diversity in the range of premium mid-range BMW M automobiles. Together with the all-new BMW M4 Coupe, the new BMW M3 Sedan will be celebrating its world premiere in September 2020. It is also no secret that the new edition of the BMW M4 Convertible is to follow next year. However, attentive observers will soon be able to catch a glimpse of the prototype of a new high-performance automobile. In Garching near Munich, home of the BMW M GmbH, work is being carried out on a further dream-come-true: For the first time in the history of the BMW M GmbH, the model range will be complemented by a BMW M3 Touring.

M-specific performance combined with an increase in available space and the intelligent functionality of a Touring model – this was previously reserved exclusively for the BMW M5. Both in its second generation in 1992 and in its fourth in 2007, the high-performance business sedan was accompanied by a Touring. This is not the first time both the M community and developers at the BMW M GmbH have been fascinated by idea of transferring this vehicle concept to the BMW M3. Exactly 20 years ago, a corresponding prototype was launched based on the third generation of the BMW M3. The then aim of proving that the high flexibility and seamless integration of high-performance sports cars with specific body features could be incorporated into the BMW M3 manufacturing process was achieved. In the sixth generation of the BMW M3, it will not end with mere theoretical considerations and product-technical test series.

The 6-cylinder M TwinPower turbo engine beneath the bonnet has been set. 5 doors and a highly variable luggage compartment are precisely what have been long awaited by fans of this model. As the fourth model variant, the BMW M3 Touring fulfils the hopes of all those who wish to take the M-specific interplay of racing-oriented performance and everyday suitability to the extreme. Never before has a premium mid-range class estate car offered so much driving fun and precision. Nor was there ever more functional utility available in a thoroughbred sports car.

Further speculation on engine and performance is quite welcome. But wide axles, conspicuously large front air intakes and four exhaust tailpipes at the rear leave no doubt that the iconic M DNA will be fully perceptible despite the car’s new body design.

The first BMW M3 Touring is still in the early stage of its approx. two-year series development process. As in the case of other BMW M high-performance sports cars, the following also applies to the BMW M3 Touring: Whenever the prototype has been given the go-ahead for test drives on public roads, it means that the decisive step towards series maturity has been taken. Not only there will it soon be regularly sighted. As with all other BMW M models, the intensive testing and tuning process for the BMW M3 Touring will take place on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring, because the first BMW M3 Touring is, after all, first and foremost a BMW M3.

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.

www.bmwgroup.com
www.bmw.co.uk
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Facebook: BMW UK
Twitter: @BMW_UK
Instagram: BMWUK
LinkedIn: BMW (UK) Limited
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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

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.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmwgroup/

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

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.

Facebook: BMW UK

Twitter: @BMW_UK

Instagram: BMWUK

LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited

YouTube: BMW UK

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:

Words

Technical Specification

Price list

Presentation

Photography 

Video

The launch of the new BMW M3 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé heralds the arrival of the fifth-generation of the iconic high-performance sports car from BMW M. For the first time the Coupé and Saloon models receive individual model names, in deference to the different model series that provide their basis.

Another first is the adoption of a turbocharged engine for this BMW M model: the high-revving, 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology has been specifically developed for this purpose, and produces a maximum output of 431hp. Its peak torque of 550Nm is available across a very wide rev range starting at just 1,850rpm, and exceeds the figure recorded by the outgoing BMW M3 by roughly 40 per cent. In spite of this, the new engine also achieves a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of around 25 per cent.

To maximise dynamic ability and ensure excellent efficiency, a weight loss of over 80kgs has been achieved compared to a comparably equipped predecessor model. Specific weight-saving measures include the increased use of lightweight materials: both models now feature a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic roof.

BMW M engineers have paid particular attention to the car’s aerodynamic performance, and incorporated the latest Active M Differential amongst numerous other technical highlights. During the development process the engineers worked closely with BMW Motorsport’s professional racing drivers, with extensive testing and set-up work carried out on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit.

The balance of the overall concept: high power, low weight, driving pleasure.
The new BMW M3 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé are formed from a host of finely blended elements, all working in perfect harmony to deliver outstanding performance, precision and agility on road and track.

With the new BMW M3 Saloon and M4 Coupé, the engineers sought to optimally channel the air around the car in the quest for ultimate performance, while also ensuring the engine, powertrain and brakes receive the requisite cooling. Even when operating under heavy loads on the racing circuit. The aggressively styled front apron, smooth under-body and the clearly defined lip spoiler at the rear of the M3 Saloon (or integrated bootlid spoiler at the rear of the BMW M4 Coupé) reduce lift by an equal amount at the front and rear axle, to the benefit of handling.

Albert Biermann, Head of Development at BMW M GmbH, said: “The way in which we channel the inflowing air through the engine oil cooler creates a venturi efect, which reduces front axle lift and, in so doing, improves the steering.”

The Aero Curtain and M side gills, the latter with integrated Air Breathers minimise turbulence in the front wheel arches. These elements, together with the aerodynamically optimised side mirrors in familiar M twin-stalk style, are not only distinctive design features, they also help to reduce drag.

The new six-cylinder in-line engine: high-revving, turbocharged unit combines the best of both worlds.
The new BMW M3 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé mark a return to the classic six-cylinder in-line engine configuration, as used on the second and third-generatios of this iconic sports car.

The new engine sees a slight power upgrade over the previous V8 to 431hp, now delivered between 5,500 and 7,300rpm, with maximum revolutions set at an unusually high figure for a turbocharged engine: 7,600rpm. Peak torque has been increased by roughly 40 per cent to 550Nm, and is maintained over a very wide rev range (1,850–5,500rpm). The standard sprint from 0-62mph takes both cars just 4.3 seconds with manual transmission, or just 4.1 seconds with the optional M DCT, while the top speed is 155mph (electronically limited). The new powerplant also boasts excellent fuel economy: the combined consumption in the EU cycle is as high as 34mpg and CO2 emissions are as low as 194g/km, an improvement of more than 25 per cent over the previous model’s figures. Regulated pollutant emissions are EU6-compliant.

The M Twin Power Turbo technology comprises two fast-responding mono- scroll turbochargers, High-precision direct injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS continuously variable camshaft timing. VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS work in tandem to seamlessly control intake valve lift. The result is a smooth and efficient power delivery, with very sharp response and reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

The six-cylinder engine features a closed-deck crankcase design, which is very rigid and allows cylinder pressures to be increased for improved power output. And instead of liners, the cylinder bores feature a twin-wire arc- sprayed coating, which results in a significant reduction in engine weight.

A further technical highlight is the forged, torsionally rigid crankshaft which, as well as providing increased torque-carrying capacity, is also lighter in weight. This significantly reduces rotating masses, resulting in improved throttle response and acceleration.

A sporting engine sound, in keeping with BMW M tradition, is ensured thanks to the lofty rev range of the new engine and an innovative flap arrangement in the twin-pipe exhaust system. The electrically-controlled flaps just before the rear silencer minimise exhaust backpressure and produce a sound that is striking and unmistakable over the entire engine speed range, as well as giving precise feedback on engine load.

The different selectable drive modes, programmable with the MDrive Manager and activated via the iconic steering wheel ‘M’ buttons, offer drivers a choice of preconfigured, perfectly balanced vehicle set-ups which also feature different engine sound profiles.

Track-ready engine oil supply system for outstanding performance
On the track, the exceptional driving dynamics of the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupé place extra demands on the engine oil supply system, the design of which reflects the extensive motorsport experience of BMW M. The low-weight magnesium oil sump, for example, features a special cover to limit movement of the oil under the effects of strong lateral acceleration. Under extreme longitudinal acceleration and deceleration, an oil extraction pump and sophisticated oil return system situated close to the turbocharger also help to maintain stable oil circulation. Oil is therefore supplied continuously to all engine components in all driving situations – whether in everyday motoring or during hard driving on the track.

Sophisticated cooling concept for maximum performance
The exceptional performance potential of the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupé places exacting demands on temperature management, in not only the engine but also the peripheral assemblies. In order to ensure optimum operating temperatures across all types of usage, BMW M engineers have developed an extremely effective cooling system.

For example, alongside the two sophisticated turbocharger units, the air intake system of the six-cylinder engine also includes an indirect intercooler, maximising charge pressure and engine output. Moreover, as well as a main radiator, the cooling system also comprises a water cooler repositioned to the side for the high and low temperature water circuits, and the engine and transmission oil (if the M Double Clutch Transmission is specified). An additional electric coolant pump cools the turbocharger bearing mounts when the car is stationary.

Six-speed manual gearbox with new throttle blipping function:
The standard transmission specified is a six-speed manual gearbox with a robust double-plate clutch. This unit is considerably more compact than its predecessor and also 12kgs lighter. To increase shift comfort, the manual gearbox uses innovative new carbon friction linings in its synchroniser rings. The gearbox blips the throttle on downshifts - previously a feature reserved for the M Double Clutch Transmission - improving the smoothness of the driving experience and helping to enhance stability.

Seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic and Launch Control
The optional transmission for the new BMW M3 Saloon and M4 Coupé is the third-generation M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT). As well as changing gear automatically, in manual mode it enables ultra-fast gear changes with no interruption in the flow of power. The integrated Launch Control function ensures optimum sprinting performance off the line, producing acceleration figures that would be simply unattainable with the manual gearbox. In addition, the system allows for a range of extra features, including Stability Clutch Control, which opens the clutch when the car is understeering to bring it back into line, and also the selectable Drivelogic modes that give the BMW M3 and BMW M4 more comfortable, more economy-focused or even sportier characteristics depending on driver choice. The additional seventh gear over the manual gearbox allows longer gear ratios – and delivers the efficiency gains you would expect as a result.

Taking advantage of the extremely light yet impressively durable properties of CFRP (carbon-fibre reinforced plastic), the engineers have been able to construct the driveshaft from this material.

“The impressive stiffness and low weight of the CFRP tubing allow the driveshaft to be constructed as a single-piece unit with no centre bearing. As well as a weight-saving of 40 per cent over its predecessor, we have achieved a reduction in rotating masses and therefore improved drivetrain dynamics.” explains Albert Biermann.

The rear-wheel drive chassis with Active M Differential
The Active M Differential makes a considerable contribution to the superb dynamics of the new BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupé. With further weight-savings thanks to hollow, and hence lighter, output shafts, the Active M Differential uses an electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential to optimise traction and directional stability. Working precisely and rapidly, the control unit links up with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system and also takes into account the position of the accelerator pedal, the rotational speed of the wheels and the car’s yaw rate.

Every driving situation is therefore precisely analysed and an impending loss of traction on one side of the car identified at an early stage. The degree of differential lock – which may be anywhere between 0 and 100 per cent – is adjusted as required within a fraction of a second, enabling wheel spin to be prevented on slippery surfaces, in instances where the right and left rear wheel have widely differing friction coefficients or in tight bends and when changing direction with particular vigour.

The M Dynamic Mode – a sub-function of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system – allows enthusiastic drivers to probe the limits of the new cars while retaining an electronic safety net at all times. The system tolerates greater wheel slip and therefore easy drifting, although DSC will still step in if the car ventures over the limits – unless it is switched off completely.

Aluminium suspension elements ensure sharper dynamics
The core expertise of BMW M resides in developing cars that offer superb driving dynamics and real driver satisfaction, yet not at the expense of everyday usability. In order to achieve these aims with the significantly increased performance capability of the new BMW M3 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé, the suspension of the outgoing BMW M3 has been redesigned with painstaking attention to detail.

In the front suspension the use of lightweight aluminium construction for components such as control arms, wheel carriers and axle subframes saves 5kgs over a conventional steel design. Play-free ball joints and elastomer bearings developed specially for the cars ensure an optimum and direct transfer of forces both laterally and longitudinally, while an aluminium stiffening plate, CFRP engine strut brace and additional bolted joints between the axle subframe and the body structure all help to increase the rigidity of the front end.

Also lighter is the new five-link rear axle. All the control arms and wheel carriers are manufactured using forged aluminium, which reduces the unsprung masses of the wheel-locating components by around 3kgs compared with the previous model generation. The rigid connection between the rear axle subframe and the body – without the use of elastic rubber elements – is borrowed from motorsport and serves to further improve wheel location and therefore directional stability.

Tyre development was critical from the outset, and both cars feature 19-inch wheels as standard for the UK market, in either Ferric Grey or optionally Jet Black. These specially developed forged wheels make a significant contribution to the reduction in the cars’ unsprung masses. BMW M engineers have taken great care to ensure all the components between the steering wheel and tyres work together harmoniously and therefore provide maximum driving precision and lateral stability, while retaining good ride comfort.

Electric Power Steering with three settings
The electromechanical steering system in the new BMW M3 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé represents a new development from BMW M. The integrated M Servotronic function electronically adjusts the level of steering assistance according to the car’s speed. The system offers the driver three settings as standard, which can be selected at the touch of a button: COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes allow the level of steering assistance to be adapted to suit any given situation and the driver’s personal tastes.

The Adaptive M suspension, fitted as standard for the UK market, also provides COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, enabling the driver to choose between a more comfortable damper setting for urban driving, for example, or a stiffer set-up for dynamic driving on country roads. A third option minimises body movements and maximises dynamic performance for use on the track.

The standard new BMW M Compound brakes boast impressive feel, outstanding stopping power and a high resistance to fade. Far lighter than conventional equivalents, they contribute to a substantial reduction in unsprung masses. Even lighter BMW M Carbon ceramic brakes can be specified as an option - gold callipers denote their fitment.

Lightweight engineering: shedding weight in all the right places.
Intelligent lightweight design was a top priority in the development of the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupé. The goal was to minimise kerb weight in order to give both models outstanding driving dynamics and exemplary efficiency. These measures have delivered impressive results, with the BMW M4 Coupé (manual transmission) weighing 1,497kgs, around 80kgs lighter than a comparably equipped predecessor model – with all the benefits that reduction brings.

On the outgoing models, the CFRP roof was confined to the Coupé version. Now, for the first time, the four-door BMW M3 Saloon gets this striking design and functional feature as standard. The CFRP roof brings weight-savings of 5kgs in the case of the BMW M3 Saloon and more than 6kgs in the case of the BMW M4 Coupé. It also lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity, which has a positive impact on driving dynamics.

Aluminium is used for the front wings and the bonnet, as opposed to conventional steel, and makes an important contribution to the low overall weight, while at the same time improving axle load distribution.

On the M4 Coupé, the shape of the new bootlid has been optimised for aerodynamic performance, while the use of a carbon-fibre and plastic compound saves additional weight.

The new BMW M3 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé also feature a CFRP driveshaft. The high rigidity and low weight of the CFRP tube mean that the driveshaft can be produced as a single-piece component, without a centre bearing. This achieves weight-savings of 40 per cent over the previous model and a reduction in rotating masses, which in turn results in more dynamic powertrain response.

A further use of CFRP can be found in the engine compartment for the engine strut brace. Weighing only 1.5kgs it offers superior rigidity to a comparable aluminium component, and at the same time plays a key part in the excellent steering response and precision of both vehicles. The use of carbon-fibre in these models is a reminder that BMW is a global leader in high-strength, lightweight CFRP construction, and that it was BMW who brought out the first mass-production vehicle with a body consisting entirely of this material – the innovative BMW i3.

Design: striking use of forms underlines standout performance capability.
“The superior performance of the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupé should be obvious at first glance,” explains Karim Habib, Head of Design at BMW Automobiles. “Indeed, the exterior design has a visual impact that elevates the BMW M design language to a new level of expression, highlighted by a purposeful character, emotional appeal and dynamic verve.”

Viewed from the front, the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupé have a powerfully expressive ‘face’, with a modern take on the twin headlight arrangement and a distinctive double-slat kidney grille with M designation. The aggressive front apron, with its trio of large intakes, supplies cooling air to the engine and brakes. Among the other hallmark BMW M design features is the characteristic powerdome on the bonnet, which hints at the potential of the muscular M TwinPower Turbo engine and creates space for the intercooler. The twin-stalk side mirrors are another classic BMW M design feature.

The sides of both cars clearly show the hallmark BMW proportions of a long bonnet, long wheelbase, set back glasshouse and short front overhang, further emphasised by familiar M design elements. The new M side gills perform both a stylistic and a functional role: integrated into them are Air Breathers, which team up with the Aero Curtains in the front apron to help optimise the airflow around the wheel arches and therefore improve aerodynamics.

The dark colour of the CFRP roof (with its contoured roofline) gives both models a lower-slung and more compact appearance, as the eye perceives the roof pillars – painted in body colour – to be the uppermost point of the car. A flowing roofline then gains in momentum once again as it heads rearwards, increasing aerodynamic downforce and giving the rear a more muscular look at the same time.

At the rear, there are greater differences in the two models. The BMW M3 Saloon is fitted with a lip spoiler to reduce lift, while the tailgate of the BMW M4 Coupé features an integrated rear spoiler and is made from a carbon-fibre compound.

Both models feature prominently flared rear wheel arches, which, in combination with the wide track, give the cars a very purposeful stance. The high-gloss pair of twin exhaust tailpipes are framed by the sculptural rear apron with its integrated diffuser.

Interior design: flawless ergonomics in a sporting ambience.
Inside, drivers will be greeted by the interior architecture prioritising unimpeachable ergonomics and a clear driver focus. However, the emphasis has naturally been put on an even more sporting ambience. There are a host of traditional BMW M equipment details, including M door sill finishers, M gearshift lever, M design circular instruments with white graphics, M leather steering wheel (with M logo, chrome trim and iconic triple-colour contrast stitching) and metallic shift paddles (if the M DCT gearbox is specified). The BMW Individual headlining is finished in Anthracite.

The bespoke front seats take inspiration from the bucket seats fitted in racing cars, and feature a full-size single-piece back panel. This means the construction of the seats is very flat, while the high, width-adjustable side bolsters and low-set seat surface allow an ideal seating position and provide excellent support. Despite this, these BMW M seats also include electric adjustment and heating as standard. On the seat surface, the stitching, upholstery segmentation and perforation lend the seats a slim-fitting feel, whilst the BMW M logo on the seat is illuminated for the first time.

Like the front seats, the distinctively contoured backrests of the rear seats also offer exceptional lateral support: they are made from a lightweight composite material and can be folded in a 60:40 split. This gives the BMW M3 and BMW M4 a level of everyday usability that is well beyond the norm for high-performance sports cars.

Equipment: extensive standard equipment joined by a host of options that enhance dynamics and comfort.
The new BMW M3 Saloon and new BMW M4 Coupé possess an extensive list of standard equipment, which reflects their performance-oriented character but also their excellent everyday usability. The UK specification has been enhanced substantially from the predecessor model with a number of additions; these include technical features such as Adaptive M suspension, 19-inch M light alloy wheels and front and rear PDC; comfort items such as the heated and electric BMW M seats and exterior-folding mirrors; aesthetic features such as High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and finally the full BMW Professional Media package with upgraded Bluetooth system.

In addition, customers can choose from a broad range of optional equipment to give the cars either an additional sporting edge, or boost comfort levels further still. For those buyers wishing to personalise their cars yet further, the wide-reaching spectrum of BMW Individual – including BMW Individual paint finishes, BMW Individual Merino leather and BMW Individual interior trim elements – will be available later in 2014.

Further options for comprehensive driver information
For track drivers BMW M has developed a free BMW M Laptimer app, which allows owners to analyse their personal driving style. Once their smartphone is hooked up to the car – via USB cable or the car’s snap-in adapter – customers can operate the BMW M Laptimer app easily using the iDrive Touch Controller. The app then records speed, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, engine revs, the gear engaged, steering angle, accelerator position and fuel consumption. The data can subsequently be analysed via graphic displays on the customer’s smartphone, including the driver’s reactions. Another feature allows two recordings on the same circuit to be compared corner-by-corner: the readings can be either the driver’s own or data shared via email.

Naturally, the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupé are also available with the wide variety of driver assistance systems and mobility services introduced under the BMW ConnectedDrive banner, some of which will already be familiar from the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series. Among the highlights are the latest-generation of the Professional Navigation system, offering extra capability, sharper graphics and 3D elements for the map display; Driving Assistant Plus, which warns the driver of a looming collision with a pedestrian; Adaptive full LED headlights with an intelligent anti-dazzle High-beam Assistant and a further developed version of Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function.

The optional M Head-up Display comes with additional, M-specific functions such as a gear display, rev counter and Optimum Shift Indicator.

Production: return to the birthplace of the BMW M3.
It was at the Preußenstraße headquarters of BMW Motorsport GmbH in Munich, 28 years ago, that the company’s then managing director Paul Rosche developed the idea for the BMW M3. Production began just a few months later at the original BMW plant next door. And now, almost 23 years later, production is returning to BMW Plant Munich with the build of the new BMW M4 Coupé. The BMW M3 Saloon will continue to be built at BMW Plant Regensburg where 222,293 units of the second, third and fourth-generations of the BMW M3 combined have been produced since 1992.

The first-generation.
In spring 1985, the BMW Motorsport department began development of a new machine to compete in touring car racing. The road-going version required for homologation – 5,000 examples of which had to be built to satisfy the sporting regulations – was conceived from the outset as a race-ready Group A machine. The model made its debut in the summer of 1986. Its naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine developed 195hp (or 200hp without catalytic converter) from a 2.3-litre engine; accelerated from 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds (6.7 seconds) and had a top speed of 143mph (146mph).

The first-generation BMW M3 exceeded all sales expectations: including the Convertible variant, the various evolution stages of the car and the special-edition models, BMW sold a total of 17,970 M3s worldwide by the time production ceased in 1991.

The second-generation.
The successor to the original M3 was not designed as the basis for a racing car. However, it was developed from the outset in three body variants: the two-door Coupé, which made its debut in 1992, was followed onto the market in 1994 by a Convertible and – for the first time – a four-door Saloon. A six-cylinder 3.0-litre engine developing 286hp powered all three models to 62mph from a standstill in less than six seconds; top speed was electronically limited to 155mph. A low-run M3 GT variant was added to the range in 1994, with 295hp, and then in 1995 the displacement was increased to 3.2-litres, with engine output rising to 321hp.

In 1997 the BMW M3 became the world’s first volume-produced car to be available with a Sequential M Gearbox (SMG). This transmission was based on the conventional gearbox for the M3, but with a clutch that was activated electro-hydraulically. 71,242 units of the Coupé, Convertible and Saloon combined were produced at Plant Regensburg.

The third-generation.
The third-generation of the BMW M3 arrived in 2000, available in Coupé or Convertible form only. Its six-cylinder in-line engine still displaced 3.2-litres, but now developed 343hp, and that meant the M3 could accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds – or 5.5 seconds for the Convertible model. New also was a variable differential lock at the rear axle, allowing anywhere between 0 and 100 per cent lock. Added to which, the second-generation of the Sequential M Gearbox (SMG II) now also allowed the driver to change gear using paddles on the steering wheel.

The pinnacle of this generation was the BMW M3 CSL, introduced in 2003. The suffix stood for “Coupé Sport Lightweight”, justified by elements such as a carbon-fibre roof, centre console and door panels, a lighter rear window and the omission of numerous comfort-oriented features. With a kerb weight of just 1,385kgs, it weighed 110kgs below the standard M3. All 1,383 units of the 360hp vehicle were sold within just a few months.

The fourth-generation.
In 2007 the fourth-generation BMW M3 was launched with an all-new V8 engine – the first time an M3 had appeared without the now classic six-cylinder powerplant. Built in Coupé, Saloon and Convertible form (the latter joined the range in 2008) the new 3,999cc engine developed 420hp and some 85 per cent of its maximum 400Nm of torque was available across a huge 6,500rpm rev range. Weight-saving gained increasing importance, and BMW M engineers responded with the Coupé in particular. As with the previous CSL model, the roof was now made from CFRP; the bonnet with its characteristic powerdome was made from aluminium, as were large sections of the newly developed lightweight chassis.

Highlights during the production run included the BMW M3 GTS, which contained a larger 4.4-litre V8 to produce a peak output of 450hp. The GTS featured specially developed chassis components and aerodynamic measures, plus a two-seat cockpit conceived for track use. Only available with Fire Orange paintwork, the GTS was aimed specifically at circuit driving as well as road use. Just 135 examples of this model were delivered to customers, with just 15 coming to the UK.

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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.

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 John 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.

Two exclusive new M Performance Editions for the BMW M3 and BMW M5 are being built by BMW M GmbH solely for the UK market. Just thirty of each model will be available costing £74,080 OTR for the M3 M Performance Edition and the M5 M Performance Edition is priced at £95,140 OTR.

Showcasing BMW Individual, these M Performance Editions will bring three new Frozen paint colours to the UK for the first time; BMW Individual Japan Red with a Frozen Red wrap, BMW Individual Frozen White and BMW Individual Frozen Blue.  All are on sale now. To complement the striking exterior colours, all M5 M Performance Editions come with Full Black Merino leather upholstery and all M3 M Performance Editions come with extended Black Novillo leather upholstery, both with contrasting Mugello Red, Lotus White or Tobago Blue stitching as standard.

Floor mats with contrast piping, an Alcantara steering wheel, BMW Individual Piano Black interior trim with a ‘One of 30’ laser cut designation, front headrests with M stitching and door sills with ‘BMW M Performance Edition’ designation complete the look of the interior.

The new BMW M3 M Performance Edition features BMW’s class-leading 420hp V8 engine with power transferred to the road via a standard seven-speed M DCT transmission and variable M differential. The car also comes with the Competition Package as standard, which features 10mm lowered suspension, Electronic Damper Control with Sport mode and a revised DSC+ system.

Additionally, the BMW M3 M Performance Edition boasts an array of extra standard equipment including; 19-inch M Y-spoke Matt Black alloy wheels, Dark Chrome exhaust, side gills and kidney surround, jet black bonnet intakes, carbon-fibre front splitters, high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, folding exterior mirrors and sun protection glass to complement its unique exterior.  Adaptive headlights, DAB digital radio, a Harman/Kardon 13-loudspeaker system, BMW Professional Media Package, mobile application preparation, telephone USB audio interface and Internet add to the M3’s practicality. While the sliding front armrest, front seat heating and front and rear Park Distance Control complete the package. The extensive list of equipment, now standard, is worth £9,790.

The new BMW M5 M Performance Edition features BMW’s latest 560hp TwinPower Turbo V8 engine complete with race-bred chassis technology including an Active M differential and electronic damping control.  Combining track-car dynamics with supreme touring comfort, the new BMW M5 M Performance Edition includes £22,075 worth of additional equipment as standard. 

For this added value 20-inch M Double-spoke Matt Black alloy wheels, Dark Chrome exhaust, side gills and kidney surround, M Sport multi-function seats with lumbar support, powered bootlid operation, sun protection glass, split-folding rear seats, comfort access and soft close doors add to the already impressive standard equipment list. A reversing assist camera, High-beam assistant, Internet, BMW Professional 12-loudspeaker system, telephone USB audio interface, mobile application preparation and speed limit display complete this exclusive model.

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The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles  and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 25 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2011, the BMW Group sold about1.67 million cars and more than 113,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2010 was euro 4.8 billion on revenues amounting to euro 60.5 billion. At 31 December 2010, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 95,500 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built 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. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last seven years.

www.bmwgroup.com

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For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                    01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

An exclusive new BMW M3 Coupé Frozen Silver Edition model has been announced as part of BMW M GmbH’s 40th anniversary year. Just 100 of the high performance coupés will be sold in the UK and the model features unique content to make it a truly collectable item.

* Electronically limited. M DCT transmission is standard.

The new BMW M3 Coupé Frozen Silver Edition features BMW’s class-leading 420hp V8 engine with power transferred to the road via the standard seven-speed M DCT transmission and variable M differential. The car comes with a 10mm lowered suspension featuring a three-stage Electronic Damper Control, 19-inch light alloy wheels and a revised DSC+ system.

But it is the bespoke combination of Frozen Silver metallic paint, not seen before on any BMW, matt black alloy wheels, Dark Chrome exhaust, side gills and kidney surrounds, and Jet Black bonnet intakes that set the car apart. A High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim completes the exterior look.

Inside and the high standard specification includes Black Novillo leather with contrast stitching and Palladium leather armrests and inserts,. The steering wheel is sheathed in Alcantara and comes complete with an M3 chequered flag motif, while the door sills feature a similar logo. Carbon fibre is liberally applied to the interior to underscore the sporting credentials, the handbrake has M Power stitched onto it and there is a plaque to highlight the limited edition nature of the car.

The new BMW M3 Coupé Frozen Silver Edition adds nearly £9,000 of equipment to a standard M3, but all for an on-cost of just £4,000. The car goes on sale in the UK on 1 June, 2012.

News of the latest M car to be offered in the UK comes as the country remains an important market for BMW M products. Despite the tough economic climate BMW UK sold 789 M3 Coupés in 2011, a 10 per cent increase over the previous year. 

Ends

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska         BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                        BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                   Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                    Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                  01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

Exclusive new Limited Edition BMW M3 Coupé and Convertible models are coming to the UK from March this year. These special interpretations of the legendary high-performance 3 Series are available in a strictly limited, and suitably patriotic, colour palette of Imola Red, Mineral White or Santorini Blue.

Just 500 of these models will be built (Coupé and Convertible combined), each one featuring an edition designation laser cut into the trim inlay on the dashboard. Mechanically, the Limited Edition 500 is unchanged over the M3 in technical specification, using the acclaimed 420hp V8 engine, M-specific chassis with either six-speed manual or seven-speed M DCT transmission.

* Electronically limited

The three striking exterior colours of the BMW M3 Limited Edition 500 are complemented by the characteristic M-car signature details of the kidney grille surround, side gills and twin double exhaust pipes finished in dark chrome. In addition, both the Coupé and Convertible models come with BMW’s high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and are further accentuated by the 19-inch high-gloss black light-alloy wheels.

Each BMW M3 Limited Edition 500 will be trimmed with BMW’s extended Novillo leather and also features contrast stitching on the sports seats and door panels.  This stitching complements the exterior colour of the car; Imola Red cars feature Black leather with Mugello Red stitching, Mineral White cars feature Fox Red leather with Black Stitching, and those cars finished in Santorini Blue feature Black leather with Tobago Blue stitching.

The cockpit of the Limited Edition 500 features BMW’s Piano Black interior trim, with the edition designation – ‘One of 500’ – laser cut into the left-hand side of the inlay on the dashboard.

Customers of the BMW M3 Limited Edition 500 not only get an exclusive version of this Munich-bred sports car, they also benefit from a keen deal that sees well over £4,000 worth of additional equipment included for only £1,000 on top of the standard M3 Coupé and Convertible list price.  Therefore the Limited Edition 500 version of the Coupé costs from £55,690, with the Convertible available from £59,785.

The BMW M3: high performance and efficiency

The BMW M3 is powered by an award-winning 420hp V8 that revs to 8,300rpm. This potent 3,999cc unit also delivers unparalleled flexibility, with 400Nm of torque developed at 3,900rpm, while drive is transferred to the road by BMW M’s six-speed manual gearbox as standard, complete with the variable M differential. BMW’s M DCT (M Double Clutch Transmission) is an option enhancing fuel economy, reducing CO2 emissions and enabling faster acceleration.

The BMW M3 is capable of reaching 62mph from rest in just 4.6 seconds (Coupé with M DCT) and on to a limited top speed of 155mph. However, despite these performance figures the car still delivers up to 25.2mpg on the combined cycle, thanks to a comprehensive suite of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies including Brake Energy Regeneration.

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles  and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 25 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2011, the BMW Group sold about1.67 million cars and more than 113,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2010 was euro 4.8 billion on revenues amounting to euro 60.5 billion. At 31 December 2010, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 95,500 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built 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. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last seven years.

www.bmwgroup.com

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For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                    01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

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.

This text is a 1:1 copy of a Munich generated press release.

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. 

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.

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." 

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.

Attached please find the technical specifications referring BMW M3 GTS, valid from 05/2010.

Team BMW Motorsport has made a triumphant return and won the 2010 24-hour race at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Five years since the manufacturer’s last victory, the no. 25 BMW M3 GT2 claimed BMW’s 19th victory at this endurance classic on Sunday. The winning car, with Jörg Müller (DE), Augusto Farfus (BR), Uwe Alzen (DE) and Pedro Lamy (PT) at the wheel, crossed the finish line first after 154 laps of the 25.378-kilometre circuit. The quartet of drivers produced a flawless performance and fought their way onto the top step of the podium despite gearbox problems in the last three hours.

An impressive fight back saw the second BMW M3 GT2, car number 26, driven by Dirk Werner (DE), Dirk Müller (DE), Andy Priaulx (GB) and Dirk Adorf (DE) race through the field to finish in seventh in front of 220,000 spectators. A crash, while swerving to avoid a collision, resulted in the four drivers losing an hour in the pits early on in the race and dropping back to 182nd. In cool, but dry conditions, car number 26 worked its way back up the field lap by lap. The drivers’ fighting spirit was ultimately rewarded.

The two private BMW Z4 GT3 cars with numbers 76 and 69, run by Schubert Motorsport and Dörr Motorsport respectively, rounded off an excellent overall result for BMW by finishing in fourth and ninth. In addition to the win, BMW teams secured ten class wins at the Nordschleife. These results have further strengthened BMW’s position as the most successful manufacturer in the history of the race. Of the 198 cars lining up for this year’s event, 63 were BMWs.

BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen said: “That was a fantastic return for us at the 24-hour race here on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. This win reminds me of the triumph in Le Mans in 1999. I have never known excitement like I experienced today. After some of our direct rivals fell by the wayside, our victory was also hanging by a thread. At about 12.00 the winning car developed a gearbox problem, resulting in the loss of one gear. Shortly after 13.00 other gears gradually gave up. It was a masterful performance how Jörg Müller and Uwe Alzen brought the car home in first place in this crucial phase. The tension was enormous for all of us, so the relief was all the greater when the car crossed the finish line. I must say a big thank you to every single member of the team. Everyone worked perfectly together. Thanks also to our loyal fans, who have taken us to their hearts after a five-year break and given us such great support.”

For the Schnitzer Motorsport team this is the fifth win in the “Green Hell” after previous victories in 1989, 1990, 2004 and 2005. Team Manager Charly Lamm said: “Days like this are the ultimate reason why I love my profession so much. The commitment shown by the entire team today is really unique. We had to overcome some tricky situations, but always believed in ourselves. The preparation time was tough, as we had to get the best possible package on its feet within a relatively short timeframe. We obviously succeeded. It goes without saying that I feel sorry for the rivals who did not finish the race. However, reliability is crucial in a race like this, and in that regard we were number one today.”

The fast and flawless work which Schnitzer Motorsport has demonstrated for decades played a big role in this triumph. Following Werner’s crash on the eighth lap, the mechanics changed the front-left suspension, the radiator and the rear-left shock absorber on the number 26 BMW M3 GT2. The winning car also experienced difficulties: tyre damage on lap 46 and a damaged radiator just six laps later also required unscheduled pit stops. In addition, the car developed a gearbox problem in the last three hours. However, the team and drivers stayed calm and refused to be denied victory once they had taken over at the head of the field with two hours remaining.

A fifth victory on the Nordschleife sees Pedro Lamy draw level in the all-time winners’ list with Marcel Tiemann (DE), who is the only driver to have enjoyed as much success at the 24-hour race as the Portuguese BMW driver. For Jörg Müller and Uwe Alzen this was the second victory at probably the most challenging circuit in the world. Augusto Farfus also goes into the Nordschleife history books following his first 24-hour start in a works car.

Drivers’ reactions.

Jörg Müller (Car Number 25):

“During my last stint we lost fourth gear. The problem gradually got worse. The main priority was to be careful and keep the car in the race. Everything worked out superbly in the end. The entire team has worked extremely hard over the last few months. This victory belongs to them. We drove consistent laps over the entire distance. If you can achieve that at a 24-hour race, you normally find yourself up at the front. For us today, it was even enough to finish first.”

Augusto Farfus (Car Number 25):

“That is my first victory at a 24-hour race. To win on the Nordschleife is a unique experience. I would like to thank BMW and Charly Lamm for putting their trust in me. I have learned a lot here, particularly from the Nordschleife old hands in my team. We knew that first we had to make it through the event before we could start to dream of winning. Our reliability was our greatest advantage today.”

Uwe Alzen (Car Number 25):
“To come away with that kind of result from a race that was anything but easy is sensational. First a puncture, then a damaged radiator and the gearbox problems. I have never seen a pit crew work so quickly and professionally, particularly when replacing the radiator. The whole race was unbelievably exciting. I am back on the top step of the podium for the first time in ten years. That is a great feeling. For me it is a great honour to work with BMW and Schnitzer. I feel on top of the world in this team. Today I am simply over the moon.”

Pedro Lamy (Car Number 25):
“That is definitely my best win here on the Nordschleife. Each one of my five victories was special in its own way, but the way we won this one was particularly difficult. Maybe some of the other teams were missing the bit of luck that was needed here. However, as you can make your own luck, this entire team most definitely earned its victory. I am pleased for BMW, everyone in the team and, of course, for myself.”

Dirk Werner (Car Number 26):
“Our race started with the worst possible scenario: we fell back almost to last place on the first lap. I felt really bad, as I was the one in the car when we had the crash. However, the team worked incredibly hard to boost my confidence again. My compliments to my fellow drivers, who did not make any mistakes. Seventh place after that start is a great result.”

Dirk Müller (Car Number 26):

“That was my fourth 24-hour race at the Nürburgring for BMW – and the third time we have won. We can be very proud. I say ‘we’ deliberately, although it was car number 25 that crossed the line in first, as we are a true team. Of course we are a bit disappointed that we did not finish higher with the no. 26 car. However, we showed an incredible morale. After the crash the car looked really bad, but the team fixed everything perfectly. First and seventh is a great result.”

Andy Priaulx (Car Number 26):

“I am more than happy. Our team claimed victory, which is fantastic for BMW. On the other side, we would have hoped for more with our car. Having said that, we did finish the race – and after a magnificent fight back. I simply cannot rate the performance of my team-mates highly enough. Nobody in our team gave up. We will take this fighting spirit with us from this week at the Nürburgring.”

Dirk Adorf (Car Number 26):

“After qualifying, nobody really expected a result like this from us. I am very impressed that we managed to turn the tide in this way. Charly Lamm and his team were fantastic and always believed we could win. The morale in the team is very impressive. Over the course of the race we made up three laps. I don’t like to think what might have been in it for us if we hadn’t been so unlucky at the start of the race.”

Ends

The history of BMW M3 motor sport is to be enriched following the confirmation that the next chapter in ‘M’ heritage is here. The most powerful version of the high-performance M3 Coupé, the BMW M3 GTS, features a 450hp engine that offers the ideal preconditions for use at club sport events, while still being road-legal. In addition to a larger and more powerful V8 engine, exclusive tuning of the seven-speed M Dual Clutch Transmission with DRIVELOGIC and modified suspension technology, the M3 GTS has also been specifically optimised with regard to aerodynamics and lightweight construction.

The sporting potential of the BMW M3 GTS is underlined by a power-to-weight ratio that has been lowered to 3.4kgs per hp. Featuring a transmission and suspension configuration which has been optimised for the racetrack, the BMW M3 GTS accelerates from zero to 62mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. The car covers the standing kilometre in just 22.5 seconds before going on to a 190mph top speed.

Dr. Kay Segler, CEO of BMW M GmbH, said: “The BMW M3 is an icon and internationally synonymous with the highest level of dynamics. 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.”

Enhanced drivetrain
The power required by this unique vehicle is delivered by a high-revving eight-cylinder engine taken from the ‘standard’ BMW M3 range that has then been enhanced with an increase in displacement, power output and maximum torque.

The engine’s displacement has grown from 3,999cc to 4,361cc and this has been achieved by a cylinder stroke that has been extended from 75.2mm to 82mm. The enlarged combustion chamber has resulted in a power output increase from 420hp to 450hp with peak power attained at 8,300rpm. Maximum torque has also been increased by 40Nm to 440Nm and is available at an engine speed of 3,750 rpm.

Characteristic features derived from motor sport include the crankcase designed as a bedplate construction and made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy, individual throttle butterflies, knock sensors featuring ionic-current technology and a dynamically optimised wet-sump oil supply that has been adapted 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.

The M Dual Clutch Drivelogic gearbox developed for the BMW M3 range is standard on the M3 GTS. However, compared to the original transmission the gear shift characteristics have been exclusively tuned to the modified engine featured in the BMW M3 GTS. This seven-speed transmission shifts gears without interruption of power for rapid yet smooth acceleration.

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 on the ‘standard’ BMW M3 Coupé. However, the BMW M3 GTS features a rigidly bolted rear suspension subframe with adjustable height. The car, thus, can be lowered by up to 16mm at the front and 12mm at the rear. It also features separately adjustable dampers. Moreover, camber on the front and rear axles is also variable.

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

Specific tuning of the stability control function DSC+ (Dynamic Stability Control Plus), including ABS and the M Dynamic Mode (MDM), make allowances for the increased dynamic potential of the BMW M3 GTS. The unique vehicle comes with intermediate tyres on 19-inch matt black M light alloy wheels featuring a Y-spoke design.

Optimised and adjustable aerodynamics

In order to optimise air stream and for on-demand adaptation of downforce characteristics, the BMW M3 GTS is fitted with a motor racing-oriented front apron and rear wing elements. These offer the possibility to adapt the car’s aerodynamic characteristics according to the racetrack profile and other motor sport requirements. The geometry of the front apron air deflectors can be varied as can the position of the rear wing. The rear wing assembly is based on the corresponding component featured by the BMW 320si in the World Touring Car Championship.

Any colour so long as it’s orange
The BMW M3 GTS will only be available in a unique orange colour. 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 Carbon-Fibre Reinforced Plastic roof on the BMW M3 lightweight components are used on the centre console and door panels, while polycarbonate side windows at the rear and a polycarbonate rear window reduce weight. By dispensing with the rear seats and reducing acoustic insulation further weight is saved. Finally, the car features a new thin-walled lightweight racing exhaust system with new primary catalytic converter with titanium silencers. Thus the unloaded weight of the BMW M3 GTS is just 1,530kgs (DIN) including roll bar and M Dual Clutch Drivelogic transmission – 70kgs less than a similarly specified ‘standard’ BMW M3 Coupé. Automatic climate control and an audio system are available as options.

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 with an optional roll cage extension. Additionally supplied six-point safety seat belts for driver and front seat passenger and a fire extinguisher complete the range of standard equipment.

Production of the BMW M3 GTS for the UK market in right-hand-drive form will commence from January, 2011. The on-the-road price will be announced a later date.

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. The pre-tax profit for 2009 was euro 413 million, revenues totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built 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. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                   01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk

Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

The BMW M3 Coupé with Competition Package

Contents

1.     Introduction.

2.    Drivetrain.

3.    Chassis

4.    Design

5.    Market

6.    Safety

7.    History

8.    Standard and optional equipment

9.    Technical specifications

10.  Exterior and interior dimensions

       Ouput and torque curves  

1.        Introduction

The BMW M3 is a car which defined a new vehicle segment 24 years ago when it first appeared and yet despite the best attempts of competitors who followed the vehicle has retained a class-leading position. Not only is the M3 viewed as the ultimate driving machine but it also class-leading in sales terms. The BMW M3 Coupé accounted for 680 sales last year in the UK and 1,226 in 2008. By contrast the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG had 389 and 154 buyers in the corresponding years, while Audi had 2 and 72 individual RS4 customers.

The introduction of the new Competition Package to the M3 Coupé is aimed at maintaining this dynamic and market leading position. Like all 2010 M3 derivatives, a Competition Package specified car now comes complete with the introduction of Auto Start-Stop technology as standard. This EfficientDynamics technology is new to the M3 range and has a marked positive effect on fuel consumption and emissions. The Competition Package also features a 10mm lower ride height, a new Sport setting within the standard Electronic Damper Control (EDC) and a re-programmed Dynamic Stability Control Plus (DSC+) system.

Model/ Price OTR/ Power Hp/ Torque   Nm/ 0 – 62mph Seconds/ Top Speed Mph/ Combined Mpg/CO2 g/km

BMW M3 Coupé with Competition Package/£56,590/420/400/4.8 (4.6)**/155*/22.8 /25.2)**/290 (263)**

*Electronically-limited. **Figures in brackets apply to cars with seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with DRIVELOGIC

In profile, the new car also features 19-inch light-alloy wheels in a design inspired by the popular E46 M3 CSL for an overtly sporting look. The M3 Coupé with Competition Package retains the existing carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic roof panel with exposed weave as the standard M3.  The carbon-fibre roof panel saves 5kgs over a conventional roof panel and lowers the centre of gravity to contribute to the M3’s benchmark driving dynamics. 

BMW M3 engines took top category honours on a record six successive occasions in the Engine of the Year awards. The current V8 power unit develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc capacity engine, and red-lines at 8,400rpm.  To highlight the flexibility of the powerplant, 85 per cent of torque is available over 6,500rpm.  Power is transferred to the road by BMW M’s six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential which conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip. Customers can upgrade to the paddle-shift (M Double Clutch Transmission) transmission with its enhanced fuel economy, CO2 emissions performance and faster acceleration.

The V8-powered BMW M3 easily breaks through the magical 100hp per litre barrier, offering 105hp per litre.  This engine powers the car from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds (4.6 seconds for an M DCT transmission-equipped car) and on to a limited top speed of 155mph.  However, these supercar levels of performance do not compromise economy with the car still delivering 22.8mpg (25.2mpg) on the combined cycle.

This relative frugal performance is delivered, to a major extent, thanks to BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme.  Far from only influencing the smaller-engined cars in the range, the benefits of EfficientDynamics are offered on one of the most sporting BMW cars.

The BMW M3 Coupé with Competition Package, along with all other M3s, are the first BMWs in the UK to offer Auto Start-Stop technology on an engine that doesn’t have four-cylinders and this has an affect on emissions and economy. Brake Energy Regeneration pushes the boundaries of the possible further.  This technology uses an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recognise when the engine is on over-run and activates the alternator to charge the battery with what would previously have been wasted energy.

Both these measures see fuel economy improved by six per cent (M DCT-equipped car) compared to the previous model, while CO2 emissions are reduced from 285g/km to 263g/km.

The M3 Coupé with Competition Package features MDrive manager that brings together numerous personalised functions of the car.  The settings for the Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control maps, plus the response rate of the Servotronic power steering can be controlled with one button on the steering wheel.  Once the desired settings are created in the iDrive menu, part of the standard Professional Multimedia navigation system, one push of the MDrive button transforms the M3 from a car to drive to the shops to a track day special.

The Competition Package is priced at £3,315 in addition to the standard BMW M3 Coupé’s £53,275 OTR price.

Key facts

• The BMW M3 Coupé with Competition Package is based on the most powerful road-going M3 ever.
• The Competition Package comprises revised Electronic Damper Control with a new Sport setting, 10mm lower ride height, a new DSC+ system to cater for enthusiastic driving and bespoke 19-inch CSL-style alloy wheels.
• The BMW M3 Coupé with Competition Package features EfficientDynamics fuel-saving and emissions-reducing technology. Auto Start-Stop makes its first appearance on a V8 engined BMW car in addition to Brake Energy Regeneration and other measures.
• The current generation of BMW M3 is the first road-going M3 to be offered with adjustable suspension.
• For more information on the BMW M3 Coupé with Competition Package visit  www.bmw-web.tv or www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk

BMW has introduced a Competition Package for its class-leading BMW M3 Coupé to enhance the model’s unparalleled driving dynamics. The package will go on sale 20 March, 2010.

The new Competition Package comprises a revised Electronic Damper Control with a new Sport setting which, when coupled with the 10mm lower suspension, improves the standard car’s already dynamic handling.  A Dynamic Stability Control Plus system with subtly less electronic intervention than before allows for a more enthusiastic driving style. Exclusively designed 19-inch light alloy wheels, inspired by the popular E46 M3 CSL, complete the package.

The Competition Package is priced at £3,315 in addition to the standard BMW M3 Coupé’s £52,730 OTR price.

At the same time Auto Start-Stop technology comes as standard to all versions of BMW’s M3. The Coupé, Convertible and Saloon already feature Brake Energy Regeneration, lightweight engineering principles and on-demand use of ancillary systems to enhance all round efficiency. The introduction of Auto Start-Stop, on both manual and M DCT transmission-equipped cars, represents the first time a BMW model with more than four-cylinders and a transmission other than a six-speed manual has featured the technology. No other high performance car currently comes with this capability.

The benefits of Auto Start-Stop for all BMW M3 models results in significant reductions in CO2 emissions and an improvement in fuel consumption from the EU5 compliant powerplant. The table below outlines the full details:

BMW M3 Coupé

CO2 emissions (g/km) non Auto Start-Stop    285

CO2 emissions (g/km) with Auto Start-Stop   263

Combined mpg non Auto Start-Stop                23.7

Combined mpg with Auto Start-Stop               25.2

BMW M3 Convertible

CO2 emissions (g/km) non Auto Start-Stop    293

CO2 emissions (g/km) with Auto Start-Stop   269

Combined mpg non Auto Start-Stop                23.0

Combined mpg with Auto Start-Stop               24.6

BMW M3 Saloon

CO2 emissions (g/km) non Auto Start-Stop    285

CO2 emissions (g/km) with Auto Start-Stop   263

Combined mpg non Auto Start-Stop                23.7

Combined mpg with Auto Start-Stop               25.2

Figures quoted are for M DCT-equipped cars.

All BMW M3 models equipped with the system go on sale 20 March, 2010.

Ends

The BMW Group               
The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of more than 1.43 million automobiles and over 101,000 motorcycles for the 2008 financial year. Revenues for 2008 totalled EUR 53.2 billion, with earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of EUR 921 million. The company employed a global workforce of approximately 98,000 associates on 30 September 2009.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built 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. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                   01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk

Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

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

The BMW M3, a car which has long been an automotive benchmark, is now available as a special Edition model. This ultimate M3 comes with a 10mm lower ride height for enhanced dynamic capability while the interior and exterior offer unique visual enhancements to differentiate them from the standard M3 Coupé.

Available to UK customers in three striking colour combinations of Alpine White, BMW Individual Dakar Yellow and BMW Individual Monte Carlo Blue, the new model features a dark chrome shadow-coloured kidney grille, side vents, bonnet vents and twin exhaust tailpipe. Black wing mirrors, with connecting supports in the car’s body colour, help distinguish the new model from other BMW M3 variants.

In profile, the new M3 Coupé Editions feature 19-inch M Double-spoke light-alloy wheels in silver alloy as standard and with black gloss finish as an option. High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim is also standard.

The new M3 Coupé Edition retains the existing carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic roof panel with exposed weave as the standard M3. The carbon-fibre roof panel saves 5kgs over a conventional roof panel and lowers the centre of gravity to contribute to the M3’s benchmark driving dynamics.

Inside, the latest BMW M3 has a number of signature touches to set it apart from the existing model. All three versions feature exterior body-coloured stripes on the standard Novillo leather interior, on the front and rear seat backrests and the extension of the seat squab. The front seats also come with exterior colour contrast stitching whilst Black Carbon-structure leather interior trim is a standard offering. Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue owners will get a continuation of this threadwork on the armrest and passenger door handle.

The Alpine White M3 will get an interior with contrast stitching on the carbon structure leather trim and contrast-coloured door armrest pads, centre console and centre armrest pad. A checkered flag motif decorates the door sill plates to underscore the racing pedigree of the M3, which has won more Touring Car titles than any other car as well as numerous Endurance races.

Model / Price OTR / Power Hp / Torque Nm / 0 – 62mph Seconds / Top Speed Mph / Combined Mpg / CO2 Emissions g/km

BMW M3 Coupé Editions / £53,435 / 420 / 400 / 4.8 (4.6) / 155* / 22.8 (23.7) / 295 (285)

* Electronically-limited
Figures in brackets apply to cars with seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with DRIVELOGIC

BMW M3 engines took top category honours on a record six successive occasions in the Engine of the Year awards. It develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc V8-power unit, and red-lines at 8,400rpm. To highlight the flexibility of the engine, 85 per cent of torque is available over 6,500rpm. Power is transferred to the road by BMW M’s six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential which conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip. Customers can upgrade to the paddle-shift (M Double Clutch Transmission) transmission with its enhanced fuel economy, CO2 emissions performance and faster acceleration.

Like its predecessor, the V8-powered BMW M3 easily breaks through the magical 100hp per litre barrier, offering 105hp per litre. This engine powers the car from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155mph. However, these supercar levels of performance do not compromise economy with the car still delivering 22.8mpg on the combined cycle.

This relative frugal performance is delivered, in part, thanks to BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme. Far from only influencing the smaller-engined cars in the range, EfficientDynamics offers benefits to one of the most sporting cars offered by BMW, courtesy of Brake Energy Regeneration. This technology uses an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recognise when the engine is on over-run and activates the alternator to charge the battery with what would previously have been wasted energy.

The M3 Coupé Edition features MDrive manager that brings together numerous personalised functions of the car. The settings for the optional Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control maps, plus the response rate of the Servotronic power steering can be controlled with one button on the steering wheel. Once the desired settings are created in the iDrive menu, part of the standard Professional Multimedia navigation system, one push of the MDrive button transforms the M3 from a car to drive to the shops to a track day special.

Ends

Contents 1. Introduction p3 2. Drivetrain p6 3. Chassis p13 4. Market and history p17 5. Design p20 6. Q & A p24 7. Standard and optional equipment - (see separate documents) p27 8. Technical specifications p28 9. BMW Munich Plant p29 10. BMW Welt p33

1. The new BMW M3 Convertible
Introduction

The new BMW M3 Convertible, the third derivative and concluding chapter in the
current M3 line-up, adds a new dimension to the BMW M ownership experience.

Not only is the new open-topped M3 the first M car to feature a Retractable
Hard-Top, it's the first M3 Convertible to be powered by a V8 engine and the
first BMW to feature an all-new seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M
DCT) as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox.

Although it possesses the same 4.0-litre, 420hp V8 engine as its M3 Coupé and
M3 Saloon siblings, the fourth-generation M3 Convertible is very much a model
in its own right. It has been designed from the ground up to be a four-seat
convertible with supercar performance that showcases market-leading technology.

BMW M3 Convertible (manual gearbox)
Power (Hp) 420 Torque (Nm) 400 Zero to 62mph 5.3 Combined mpg 21.9
Emissions (g/km) 309 Price OTR £54,760

BMW M3 Convertible (with M DCT gearbox)
Power (Hp) 420 Torque (Nm) 400 Zero to 62mph 5.1 Combined mpg 23.0
Emissions (g/km) 293 Price OTR £57,350

The new M3 Convertible produces more than twice the power of the original 1988
model, yet the spirit and design philosophy remains the same. With outputs of
420hp and 400 Nm, and following the precedent set by its forebears, the M3
Convertible engine comfortably breaks the all-important 100hp per litre
barrier. What's more, the new model has a power to weight ratio that is over
10 per cent higher than the outgoing E46 M3 Convertible - itself the previous
benchmark open-top sports convertible.

EfficientDynamics at the performance end of the market
The new M3 Convertible is both more fuel efficient and produces less C02 than
its predecessor, despite this breathtaking performance. The introduction of
BMW's EfficientDynamics programme - which features Brake Energy Regeneration,
Optimum Shift Indicator and lightweight materials - ensures that both running
costs and emissions are kept to a minimum. The M3 Convertible returns 21.9 mpg
on the combined cycle - a five per cent improvement over the previous
generation model.

Transmission champ
A new option for all M3 buyers is BMW's new seven-speed M DCT gearbox.
Offering drivers the chance to enjoy seamless gearshifts with no interruption
in power delivery, this state-of-the-art transmission is so efficient that it
outperforms the manual gearbox car in terms of acceleration, fuel economy and
emissions.

Lifting the lid
The new BMW M3 Convertible is the first M car to feature a Retractable Hard-Top
as standard. The electro-hydraulic roof is fully automatic and can be lowered
in
22 seconds. The M3 Convertible is fitted with SunReflective leather, allowing
owners to leave the top down for extended periods without the risk of the seat
leather overheating. With SunReflective leather, which was initially developed
by BMW Motorrad to keep motorbike riders cool in hot climes, the surface
temperature remains up to 20 degrees Celsius lower than conventional leather.

Chassis
Underneath the M3 Convertible's muscular torso lies a chassis and suspension
system tailor-made for the demanding requirements of an open-top car.
Torsional rigidity has been significantly improved over the previous model,
while the suspension has been fine-tuned to take into account the specific
weight distribution of a convertible.

Safety
The combination of a strong structure and advanced occupant restraint systems
means the BMW M3 Convertible offers the highest possible standards of passive
and active safety for occupants. Like the standard 3-Series Convertible, the
M3 version is equipped with a rollover sensor system that constantly monitors
the vertical and horizontal movement of the car. If the sensors (which are
located in the centre of the car, on the B pillars and in the doors) detect
that a rollover is imminent, roll bars located behind the rear headrests pop
up. At the same time, the front seatbelt pre-tensioners are activated and the
head/thorax airbags are deployed.

Klaus Kibsgaard, the new Managing Director of BMW (UK) Ltd, said: "To be
stepping into BMW's third largest market just as brand shapers such as M3s and
the X6 are launched is a rare treat. Throughout my time at BMW I have been
aware of the strong lure that the M badge has on our UK customers. This latest
car underscores our competitive advantage in the market place. It is the only
performance car of its type to feature innovations such as energy saving
technology and a folding metal roof.

"I believe the M3 Convertible is a sublime product and one of the best from M.
It will be hugely satisfying for both our existing M3 Convertible owners
looking to buy the new generation as well as prospects who, as yet, have not
had the pleasure of hearing an M engine on full song."

Market
The M3 Convertible goes on sale in the UK on 26 April 2008, priced at £54,760
OTR. BMW expects to sell approximately 900 M3 Convertibles in a full year.
This compares to 1,900 M3 Coupés and 400 M3 Saloons.

M3 Convertible key facts:
• First M3 Convertible to feature a Retractable Hard-Top roof.
• The only high-performance convertible in the sector to incorporate
specialist environmental fuel-saving and emissions-reducing technology.
• First M3 Convertible to be powered by a V8 engine.
• The eight-cylinder engine is lighter than the outgoing six-cylinder unit.
• First M3 Convertible to feature M Double Clutch Transmission. Available as
a £2,590 option. And it's cleaner, faster and more frugal than a manual
transmission.
• 0-62mph time of 5.1 seconds* makes it the fastest M3 Convertible ever.

*Note: When fitted with M DCT gearbox.

Contents 1. The new BMW M3 Saloon p2 2. Design p4 3. Drivetrain p8 4. Chassis p13 5. Market p17 6. Standard and optional equipment (see separate documents) p20 7. Technical specifications p21 8. Line drawings p22 9. Torque curves p23

1. The new BMW M3 Saloon
Short story


The letter M offers something truly emotive to the motoring connoisseur. Since
1978 BMW GmbH has produced purist performance cars that tap into the demands
and aspirations of customers' ultimate driving experiences. The M division
takes BMW's ingredients for dynamic production cars, listens to the market and
challenges its in-house designers and engineers to produce an intoxicating
recipe that satisfies a growing niche of enthusiasts. Using award-winning
engines and lightweight materials in construction, an M car is both challenging
and relevant to both hearts and minds.


BMW M's first car was also its only ever bespoke car. The M1 mid-engine sports
car used a tubular spaceframe chassis and plastic composite body to save weight
- steps that were ahead of their time compared to other road cars. Fast
forward three decades and there have been 23 different models of M cars in the
UK*. From the M1 to the Z3 M Coupé and the M5 Touring, they are all unique
cars, but each with the M DNA running through them; a pure engineering
philosophy enveloped in a sporting design to make for the ultimate driving
machine.


Model / Price OTR / Power Hp / Torque Nm / 0 - 62mph Seconds / Top Speed Mph /
Combined Mpg / CO2 g/km


BMW M3 Saloon (manual) / £49,415* / 420 / 400 / 4.9 / 155** / 22.8 / 295
BMW M3 Saloon (with M DCT) / £52,005* / 420 / 400 / 4.7 / 155** / 23.7 / 285

* Expected price from 1 April taking account of anticipated Vehicle Excise Duty
rate adjustment
**Electronically-limited

The M3 Saloon is true to its roots. Its dynamic statistics are impressive and
the M3 is the only performance car on the market that incorporates
award-winning specialist fuel-saving and emissions-reducing systems under the
banner of EfficientDynamics. For example, Brake Energy Regeneration utilises
the previously lost energy of an engine on overrun to re-charge the battery.
This feature alone helps the M3 Saloon become one of the cleanest and
fuel-efficient performance cars ever.


The way an M3 Saloon's power can be transferred to the road is also unique for
a BMW. Customers can specify an all-new seven-speed double-clutch manual
gearbox. This not only speeds up gear changes but also cuts the zero to 62mph
time, improves fuel consumption figures whilst lowering emissions.


*Note: E26 M1, E30 M3 Coupé and Convertible, E36 M3 Saloon, Coupé and
Convertible, E46 M3 Coupé and Convertible, E90 M3 Saloon, E92 M3 Coupé , E93 M3
Convertible (launched April, 2008), E28 M5 Saloon, E34 M5 Saloon, E39 M5
Saloon, E60 M5 Saloon, E61 M5 Touring, E24 M635CSi, E63 M6 Coupé, E64 M6
Convertible, E36/7 Z3 M Roadster and Z3 M Coupé, E85 Z4 M Roadster and E86 Z4 M
Coupé.

All of the M3 Saloon's technology is shrouded in an aerodynamically efficient
body. BMW M encapsulates the mantra 'form follows function' and the M3 Saloon
is a lesson in efficiency. Whilst still offering the practicality to transport
a family and their luggage in comfort, every aperture or crease of the bodywork
is designed to either channel air to the engine or provide downforce. Even the
wing mirrors are designed to enhance the aerodynamic characteristics. At the
rear a venturi smoothes exiting air flow from underneath the car, while a lip
spoiler on the boot provides an additional degree of rear downforce.


The M3 Saloon comes to the UK at a time when customers are increasingly keen to
marry high performance with practicality. The four-door M3 is powered by an
award-winning engine with a supercar power output, yet it is also the most
practical M3 the marque has ever produced.


The BMW M3 Saloon went on sale in the UK on 8 March, 2008, priced from £49,415
OTR and BMW expects to sell approximately 400 in a full sales year.
Tim Abbott, Sales Director of BMW (UK) Ltd, said: "The arrival of the M3
Saloon and the M3 Convertible this spring underlines the strengths of both the
3 Series and M brands. Our heartland car, with its EfficientDynamics
technologies, continues to be benchmark compact executive car and the M version
displays the all round versatility of the model.


"The portfolio of M has never been as diverse as it is now; by the end of 2008
there will be three M3 models on sale, two M5s, two M6s and two Z4Ms. BMW is
proud to be in a market-leading position of producing cars powered by
award-winning engines that are at the pinnacle of performance yet are as clean
and frugal as possible. The new M3 Saloon is proof that you can have your cake
and eat."


Key facts
• First production M3 Saloon to be powered by a V8-engine.
• The engine, cast in BMW's Landshut light alloy foundry alongside the BMW
Sauber F1 team's powerplants, has 753cc more capacity, two more cylinders yet
is 15kgs lighter than the previous M3 model's six-cylinder engine.
• The M3 features the most advanced production car engine ECU in the world
capable of 200 million calculations a second.
• BMW's M3 range are the only performance cars on the market to incorporate
specialist environmental fuel-saving and emissions-reducing technology.
• New M Double Clutch Transmission debuts in M3 Convertible and from July for
M3 Saloon and M3 Coupé.
• The M3 Saloon is the most practical M3 ever offering 450-litres of boot
space.
• First road-going BMW M3 Saloon to be offered with an optional adjustable
suspension.

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.

Munich: 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.

Hot on the heels of the arrival of a new M3 Coupé, BMW UK has announced details
of the four-door M3 Saloon. While four generations of M3 have been built, this
is only the second time an M3 Saloon has been offered. Thirteen years after
the launch of the original M3 Saloon, the new car offers the same levels of
scintillating performance as the latest Coupé. With the added practicality of
the four-door bodyshell, the new M3 Saloon will appeal to an even broader
audience.


Class-leading engine and drivetrain
Like the Coupé, the engine in the new M3 Saloon develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and
400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm. The 3,999cc V8-power unit red-lines at 8,400rpm
but to highlight the real-world driving flexibility of the engine, 85 per cent
of torque is available over an engine range of 6,500rpm. Power is transferred
to the road by BMW M's six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential.
This conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip.

The M3 Saloon completes the sprint from zero to 62mph in 4.9 seconds, only 0.1
seconds slower than the Coupé, before going onto a limited top speed of
155mph. BMW's EfficientDynamics programme, however, ensures that these
supercar levels of performance do not compromise economy with the car
delivering 22.8mpg on the combined cycle.

BMW EfficientDynamics, even in M cars
In common with all new BMW models launched in 2007, the new M3 Saloon features
Brake Energy Regeneration. This technology uses an Intelligent Alternator
Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recognise when the engine is on
over-run and activates the alternator to charge the battery with what would
previously have been wasted energy.

Another aspect of BMW's EfficientDynamics programme is lightweight technology.
Although not featuring the carbon-fibre roof panel from the Coupé, it does use
other lightweight, but high-strength, materials. Using a light-alloy engine
block manufactured alongside F1 engines at BMW's foundry at Landshut, Germany,
the new V8 powerplant weighs a mere 202kgs. To put this achievement into
context, this is 15kgs less than the six-cylinder engine in the
previous-generation M3.

To further highlight the weight advantages, the crankshaft in the new engine is
made from one complete forging and weighs only 20kgs. Additionally, the front
axle components are built entirely from aluminium. Even the five-link rear
axle, normally constructed from high-strength steel, has aluminium components
to save weight.

Personalised settings
Like the M3 Coupé, the Saloon variant also features an M Drive Manager that
brings together numerous personalised functions of the car. The optional
Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC+ traction
control settings and three specific engine control maps, plus the response rate
of the Servotronic power steering can be controlled with one button on the
steering wheel. Once the desired settings are created in the iDrive menu, part
of the standard Professional navigation system, one push of the MDrive button
transforms the M3 from a car suitable to collect the kids from school in into
supercar-beater.

Four doors but clearly an M car
BMW M's philosophy of redesigning the 'standard' car from the ground up is
showcased well in the new M3 Saloon. Although visually similar to the 3 Series
Saloon, almost all the bodyshell parts are different with the emphasis on the
sporting dynamics of the car. So much so that the M3 Saloon features the same,
sleek front end design from the Coupé. This includes the lowered, sportier
headlamp design and striking power dome in the bonnet. Primarily, the design
of the front of the car is created by the need for significant volumes of air
for the induction system. As a result, the M3 does without front fog lamps,
whilst three large air ducts in the front lower valance keep the engine
breathing.

Like the Coupé, the new M3 Saloon features 18-inch Dark Graphite double-spoke
light-alloy wheels as standard, with a forged and polished 19-inch wheel
available as an option. Another BMW M trait, the side gill in the front wing,
has been elongated for the Saloon, mirroring the design from the M5. Also
carried-over from the two-door are the aerodynamically-effective door mirrors.

From the rear, an aerodynamic diffuser emphasises BMW M's trademark twin double
exhaust pipes protruding from beneath the valance. The bootlid also features a
discreet lip spoiler.

Details about the launch date and pricing of the M3 Saloon will be announced in
the future.

Ends

The new BMW M3 Coupé The re-birth of an icon Contents 1. M3 - Overview 2. Drivetrain 3. Chassis 4. Design 5. Market 6. Safety 7. History 8. Standard equipment 9. Optional equipment 10. Technical specifications / Exterior and interior dimensions / Output and torque curves

1. M3 - The rebirth of an icon

M3. Just a single letter and number. But it elicits a hugely emotional
resonance with UK car enthusiasts. When the first BMW M3 was shown at the
Frankfurt Motor Show in 1985 it spawned an entirely new segment of the market.
Many have tried to copy the award-winning formula of unsurpassed driving
dynamics and intelligent engineering combined with day-to-day practicality and
understated performance.


BMW aims to maintain its class-leading position with the new, fourth
generation, BMW M3 Coupé. It is the most powerful production M3 ever produced,
featuring a lightweight 420hp eight-cylinder engine while introducing elements
from BMW's EfficientDynamics programme that, in combination, delivers a
cleaner, more frugal, compact supercar.

Power is transmitted to the road via a six-speed manual gearbox and the BMW
variable M differential lock. The short gear lever and close gate encourages
swift, positive changes. The variable M differential uses a torque-sensing
differential lock to channel power to the rear wheel that can transmit the most
traction. This unique differential really excels in cornering or on slippery
road surfaces.

The new BMW M3 Coupé delivers rapid straight line speed with zero to 62mph
attained in 4.8 seconds and an electronically-limited 155mph top speed.

Model / Price OTR / Power Hp / Torque Nm / 0 - 62mph Seconds / Top Speed Mph /
Combined Mpg / CO2 g/km

BMW M3 Coupé / £50,625 / 420 / 400 / 4.8 / 155* / 22.8 / 295
*Electronically-limited

The BMW M3 Coupé is the first M product to feature EfficientDynamics
technologies. Consequently the car is eight per cent more fuel efficient than
the outgoing model recording 22.8mpg on the combined cycle. Emissions have
also been cut by nine per cent from 323g/km to 295g/km. The M3 Coupé is helped
in achieving these figures courtesy of Brake Energy Regeneration, one of the
elements of BMW's EfficientDynamics programme. Previously engine power
produced during deceleration was lost, but now it is recycled to charge an
Absorbent Glass Mat battery. Conversely, under acceleration, the alternator
decouples to avoid being a drain on engine performance. An optimum gear change
indicator in the instrument binnacle can help cut fuel consumption further as
it advises the driver of the optimum gear to choose for economical motoring.

One strand of the EfficientDynamics ethos employed on the new M3 Coupé is the
extensive use of lightweight technology. The most obvious sign of this is the
carbon fibre reinforced plastic roof. A first for the segment, the roof saves
22kgs over a conventional steel roof with a sunroof fitted and is made at BMW's
Landshut foundry; the same location at which engine block is produced for the
BMW Sauber F1 team. The roof also serves to lower the car's centre of gravity
for better balance.

The unique carbon-fibre reinforced plastic roof is just one element that aids
the car's chassis set-up and impressive dynamic capabilities. The new M3 Coupé
features a bespoke suspension configuration and construction. To save 2.5kgs
in weight without compromising rigidity, nearly all of the components in the
front double joint spring strut suspension are made from aluminium. All of the
components in the five-link rear axle suspension, except for one track control
arm, are also made of aluminium. Other lightweight materials used include
thermoplastics for the bumpers and front wings, and a bonnet made of aluminium.

The driver of an M3 Coupé is supported by the most sophisticated and advanced
stability control systems in the automotive world. Dynamic Stability Control +
provides a welcome electronic safety blanket and is a system that can be
fine-tuned to suit driving style. DSC+ includes the functions of traction
control, Anti-slip + Traction, Corner Brake Control and adds further features
to improve wet braking performance, smoothness of braking and hill starts.

For those drivers wishing to experience the dynamic capabilities of the new M3,
MDynamic Mode can be selected via the iDrive menu. MDynamic Mode permits a
greater degree of performance and wheel slip before the DSC+ system
intervenes. While this has a practical benefit for slow speed starts on
slippery surfaces such as snow and ice, its real function is to allow spirited
driving with maximum driver involvement.

Available as an option, Electronic Damper Control (EDC) allows three different
stages of ride set-up - Comfort, Normal and Sport - selected manually via a
button adjacent to the gear lever. For a greater degree of personalisation the
throttle and steering sensitivity can also be changed using the Power button,
located alongside the EDC button.

MDrive Manager offers owners the optimum in M car personalisation. It enables
all the configurations of EDC, DSC+ / MDynamic Mode, throttle and steering
response to be preconfigured by the driver. Once set-up, the driver needs only
to press the steering wheel-mounted M button to select his preferred driving
configuration. Of course, as the driver spends more time in the car, the
configurations can be changed to suit new requirements.

While the basic silhouette of the M3 Coupé resembles the standard 3 Series
Coupé, BMW M's bespoke design ethos ensures that 80 per cent of the parts
differ from the standard model. Apart from the car's actual structure, only
the doors, boot lid, windows and front and rear lights are carried over. All
other components have been tailor-made for the M3 Coupé.

The BMW M3 Coupé has grown marginally in all dimensions compared to the
previous model yet it has near-identical aerodynamic efficiency. The heavily
sculptured front has been designed to channel up to 400 litres of air per
second into the engine. The purposefully-styled spoiler and sculpted wing
mirrors create additional downforce for even better road holding. At the rear,
the quad exhaust pipes protrude in pairs on either side of a small venturi,
while a discreet rear spoiler on the bootlid provides yet more downforce.

Inside, front seat occupants are cocooned in deeply contoured sports seats
equipped with full electric adjustment. The two rear seats are divided by a
central storage binnacle and are designed to accommodate two adults in comfort,
while the 430-litre boot is capable of swallowing the luggage of four people.

Jim O'Donnell, managing director of BMW (UK) Ltd, said: "The now-iconic M3
created an entirely new market niche back in the mid-1980s and each successive
incarnation has been warmly welcomed by aficionados of sporting cars.

"All our competitors have recognised the market opportunity in this sector, but
I am sure that BMW has reset the benchmark higher for all of them. I am very
confident that the M3 will be a great success in the UK."

Racing heritage
The original M3 was created to go racing and each subsequent version has
maintained these championship-winning credentials. The E30 M3 scooped more
than 1,500 individual victories and more than 50 international championship
titles in its lifetime and remains the most successful Touring Car of all
time. The 2.3-litre, and subsequent 2.5-litre four-cylinder, powered models
were loved by customers and were equally successful in the market. The
original planned production of 5,000 to meet FIA regulations topped 18,000 by
the time the first M3 stopped production.

The E36 M3 picked up where the E30 model left off. The 3.2-litre straight-six
cylinder car with 286hp was launched in 1992 and was offered for the first time
in Saloon as well as Coupé and Convertible forms, but the Coupé remained the
most popular. The E36 M3's engine was uprated in 1995 to 321hp and a six-speed
gearbox was introduced. BMW offered the first production Sequential Manual
Gearbox (SMG) in 1997 and it became popular with buyers; 50 per cent of M3
owners ordered the SMG system. During the era of the E36 M3, FIA regulations
meant the car was ineligible for some championships - that honour fell to the
highly successful four-cylinder-powered 320i. The E36 M3 still won titles in
America as well as endurance races on both sides of the Atlantic and rally and
hill climb championships.

The E46 model truly reinforced the M3 as the class leader when it was launched
in 2000. Its 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine now produced 343hp and, with its
enhanced chassis and dynamic capabilities, saw off rival product with ease in
both Coupé and Convertible form. The introduction of the M3 CSL upped the ante
with its extensive use of aluminium and composite panels, an engine performance
boost to 360hp and bespoke tyres. The CSL was a real racer for the road. An M3
CS closed the E46 M3 chapter and catered for those wanting the performance
brakes and other CSL enhancements but without some of the more extreme and
costly weight-saving features.

The new E92 BMW M3 goes on sale in the UK on 8 September, 2007, and costs
£50,625 OTR.

Key facts
• Most powerful road-going M3 ever.
• First production M3 to be powered by a V8 engine.
• First time that a BMW M3 has EfficientDynamics fuel-saving and
emissions-reducing technology. Brake Energy Regeneration and optimum gear shift
indicator cut CO2 emissions by nine per cent and improve fuel consumption by
eight per cent.
• First road-going BMW M3 to be offered with an optional adjustable suspension.
• The BMW M3 is the only car in its segment to have a carbon fibre roof. The
roof saves 22kgs compared to a conventional steel construction incorporating a
sunroof and lowers the car's centre of gravity.
• The engine, cast in BMW's Landshut light alloy foundry alongside the BMW
Sauber F1 team's powerplants, is 15kgs lighter than the six-cylinder engine it
replaces.
• The M3 features the most advanced production car engine ECU in the world
capable of 200 million calculations a second.

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.

BMW UK has announced details of the new BMW M3 Coupé, a model that 21 years ago
created an entirely new segment for super-high-performance compact cars. In
the past two decades and three previous generations, the M3 has proved a
success on road and track. Originally powered by BMW's first 16-valve
four-cylinder engine and subsequently by 3.0-litre and 3.2-litre powerplants,
BMW M3 engines took top category honours on a record six successive occasions
in the Engine of the Year awards. Racing derivatives have also won more
Touring Car titles than any other car as well as numerous Endurance races.

Engine and Drivetrain
With DNA connecting the new M3's engine to that of the BMW Sauber F1 Team, the
racing link is maintained in the fourth generation M3. The new M3 Coupé engine
develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc
V8-power unit, and red-lines at 8,400rpm. To highlight the flexibility of the
engine, 85 per cent of torque is available from 6,500rpm. Power is transferred
to the road by BMW M's six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential
which conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip.

Like its predecessor, the new V8-powered BMW M3 easily breaks through the
magical 100hp per litre barrier, offering 105hp per litre. This engine powers
the car from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds and on to a limited top speed of
155mph. However, these supercar levels of performance do not compromise
economy with the car still delivering 22.8mpg on the combined cycle, being an
eight per cent improvement over the outgoing car.

BMW EfficientDynamics
This relative frugal economy is delivered, in part, thanks to BMW's
EfficientDynamics programme. Far from only influencing the smaller-engined
cars in the range, EfficientDynamics offers benefits to one of the most
sporting cars offered by BMW, courtesy of Brake Energy Regeneration. This
technology uses an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat
battery to recognise when the engine is on over-run and activates the
alternator to charge the battery with what would previously have been wasted
energy.

Another facet of BMW's EfficientDynamics programme is lightweight technology.
The previous-generation M3 CSL showed how carbon-fibre could be used by BMW in
limited-volume production cars. The new M3 Coupé is the first full production
car in its class to feature a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic roof panel with
exposed weave. In isolation, the carbon-fibre roof panel saves 5kgs over a
conventional roof panel but it also lowers the centre of gravity to contribute
to the M3's benchmark driving dynamics.

The drivetrain in the new M3 Coupé features lightweight, but high-strength,
materials. Using an engine block manufactured alongside F1 engines at BMW's
light-alloy foundry at Landshut, Germany, the new V8 powerplant weighs a mere
202kgs, 15kgs less than the six-cylinder engine it replaces. To further
highlight the weight advantages, the crankshaft in the new engine is made from
one complete forging and weighs only 20kgs. Additionally, the front axle
components are constructed entirely from aluminium. Even the five-link rear
axle, normally constructed from high-strength steel, has aluminium components
to save weight. The control arms and dampers alone are 2.5kgs lighter than
conventional parts.

Personalised settings
Like the larger BMW M5 and M6 models, the new M3 Coupé also features an MDrive
button that brings together numerous personalised functions of the car. The
settings for the optional Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and
Sport), three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control
maps, plus the response rate of the Servotronic power steering can be
controlled with one button on the steering wheel. Once the desired settings
are created in the iDrive menu, part of the standard Professional navigation
system, one push of the MDrive button transforms the M3 from a car to drive to
the shops to a track day special.

All of these power, technology and lightweight innovations combine in the new
BMW M3 Coupé to offer a car that is significantly faster around the infamous
northern loop of the Nordschliefe. The outgoing M3 was capable of an 8mins
15secs lap but an official lap time for the V8-engined M3 Coupé has yet to be
announced.

Coupé design but with BMW M flair
The new BMW M3 Coupé shares many design cues and components with the 'standard'
3 Series Coupé model. Only the doors, bootlid, windows and front / rear lamps
are carried over. However, a number of subtle performance enhancements combine
to deliver an unmistakably sporting outline. A striking powerdome and two air
intakes in the aluminium bonnet cover the new V8-engine and help engine
cooling. Primarily, the design of the front of the car is created by the need
for significant volumes of air for the induction system. As a result, three
large air ducts in the front lower valance keep the engine breathing.

In profile, the new M3 Coupé features 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels
as standard, with a striking 19-inch wheel available as an option. Another BMW
M trait, a side gill in the front wing, also includes the side direction
indicator and the M3 logo. Such is the performance of the new car, even the
exterior door mirrors enhance the aerodynamic characteristics of the car and
provide a degree of downforce.

From the rear, an aerodynamically-efficient diffuser emphasises BMW M's
trademark twin double exhaust pipes protruding from beneath the valance. The
bootlid also features a discreet lip spoiler.

The new BMW M3 Coupé goes on sale in September 2007 and prices will be
announced nearer the launch date.

Ends

Contents p.2 - Description in Brief. p.4 - Turning Powerful Passion into Supreme Performance:The new BMW M3. p.18 - Specifications BMW M3 Coupé. p.19 - 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 new V8 Power Unit for BMW M3 Contents Page 2: Description in Brief More in every respect: The new V8 Power Unit for the BMW M3 Page 3: Short Version Page 8: Long Version Page 23: Technical Specifications Page 24: Output and Torque Diagram

Description in brief:

• First eight-cylinder for the BMW M3 sports car.
• Supreme performance ensured by 309 kW/420 hp from 4.0 litres.
• Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres (295 lb-ft) at 3, 900 rpm,
85 per cent of maximum torque over a speed range of 6,500 rpm.
• Unique thrust and muscle ensured by consistent implementation of the M
high-speed engine concept, maximum engine speed 8,300 rpm.
• Consistent lightweight construction of engine and ancillary units,
new V8 power unit one of the lightest eight-cylinders in the world,
lighter than the straight-six power unit in the former model.
• Variable camshaft control, low-pressure double-VANOS for an
optimum charge cycle, system offering full power and performance even with
normal engine oil pressure.
• Eight individual throttle butterflies for spontaneous engine response.
• Consistent and reliable oil supply with longitudinal and lateral
acceleration up to 1.4 g ensured by two oil pumps and wet sump oil lubrication
optimised for supreme dynamic behaviour.
• Exhaust system optimising cylinder charge, optimised for weight and
function by means of internal high-pressure remoulding, exhaust emissions
fulfil EU4 and LEV 2 standards.
• Upgraded MSS60 engine control unit for optimum coordination of all engine
functions with the various control systems in the car.
• Ion flow technology recognising and distinguishing engine knocking
phenomena as well as misfiring and miscombustion by measurement of ion flow in
the combustion chambers.
• Brake Energy Regeneration with intelligent alternator control.

A lighter, more powerful version of the legendary BMW M3 is ready to set pulses
racing in the UK. First unveiled at this year's Geneva Motor Show in March, the
new M3 CSL is even quicker and more responsive than its thoroughbred cousin,
promising driving purists the most authentic motor sport experience in a
production car.

A limited run will be built in Munich between June and December this year. Five
hundred are destined for the UK and dealer order books are already full. First
deliveries of the car, which is priced at £58,455 on-the-road, will begin in
August.

In creating the M3 CSL, which stands for Coupe, Sport and Lightweight,
engineers at BMW's M division succeeded in stripping 110 kg from the M3. The
result is a car that benefits from an impressive power to weight ratio of just
3.85kg/bhp and accelerates from 0?62 in 4.9 seconds. Top speed is
electronically limited to 155 mph, but can be de-limited for holders of a
racing licence.

But the M3 CSL, which is based on a concept first shown at Frankfurt in 2001,
is not just about lighter materials. Designers were tasked with creating a car
true to BMW's motor sport heritage, right down to the last component. And by
engineering a range of power and handling improvements, BMW has created a
vehicle capable of breaking the eight minute lap time at the famous
Nurburgring, North Circuit in Germany.

So how did BMW create the M3 CSL?

Intelligent lightweight technology:

For optimum weight reduction, BMW M engineers turned to 'intelligent'
lightweight technology. This meant matching the most appropriate materials to
the component or assembly requirements and resulted in widespread use of carbon
fibre reinforced plastics, lightweight aluminium and glass fibre plastics. Much
of this technology has been transferred from Formula 1.

Award winning engine - made better:

BMW's M3 engine has just received its third accolade in a row at the 2003
International Engine of the Year Awards. Now an enhanced version of this
3.2-litre straight-six power house, has been developed for the M3 CSL. Power
output has been boosted from 343 to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm, while torque is up
from 365 to 370 Nm at 4,900 rpm.

The enhancements include:

· Thinner exhaust walls
· Larger air intake opening and carbon fibre air collector
· Camshafts with longer valve opening periods
· Air intake and volume calculated according to F1 principles
· Optimised exhaust valves
· Modified exhaust emission manifold

M3 CSL gearbox:

BMW M3's most sporting and dynamic transmission features on the M3 CSL - the
paddle shift SMG gearbox with Drivelogic and new software. Based on F1
technology, it allows ultra-fast shifting through all six gears, using the gear
stick or paddles, with changes taking just 0.08 seconds. Drivers can choose
between sequential and automated mode.

Handling dynamics:

Precision handling comes courtesy of a wider front track and modified
suspension geometry, including bespoke springs and dampers. A more direct ratio
for the rack-and-pinion steering (14.5:1, compared to 15.4:1 for the M3) offers
greater steering response in all conditions. While substantially modified
brakes slow the M3 CSL to a standstill from 62 mph in less than 34 metres -
just seven and a half car lengths.

Driver aids:

M Track Mode is a unique function of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), activated
via a steering wheel mounted switch. This allows skilled track drivers to push
the car to the absolute limit of transverse and longitudinal acceleration, with
DSC operating only where these limits are exceeded.

The optional 19" wheels and tyres for the BMW M3 are fitted as standard but
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres, with asymmetric treads developed especially for
the M3 CSL mounted on unique alloy wheels, can be specified as a no cost
option. The tyres, which are suitable for both road and track, measure 235/35
ZR 19 at the front and 265/30 ZR 19 at the rear. Complementing the performance
of the car, they offer outstanding lateral grip, up to 1.6g, improving the M3
CSL's already remarkable handling qualities and cornering capability.

To ensure M3 CSL owners are comfortable with the handling of these specially
designed optional tyres, dealers will explain the need for caution while they
warm up and during very poor weather. Buyers will also be required to confirm
that they are aware of and understand the unique performance characteristics.

Free driver training for all M3 CSL customers is also included in the price.
Worth £850, this offers drivers a day at the Pro-Drive Live circuit, driving
under the guidance of experienced racing drivers, learning how to get the most
out of the car.

Interior:

In the cockpit, the M3 CSL follows the principles of a genuine sports car.
Options are kept to a minimum, with a focus on the functional, like contoured,
glass fibre bucket seats, offering optimum side support in fast bends.

Centre console and door trims are made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic and
the M Sports steering wheel is clothed in Alcantara. To make best use of the
reduced weight potential many features of modern cars normally considered as
essential, such as air conditioning and a radio, are excluded from standard
specification, but can be specified as no cost options if the customer wants
them.

Standard equipment - interior:

· Cloth Laser/Amaretta 'Reflex Pur' Anthracite
· Anthracite Headlining
· Individual high gloss satin chrome
· Titanium Shadow Interior Trim
· Chrome gear lever knob
· 4 Seats
· M Steering Wheel with switch for M Track Mode

Standard equipment - exterior:

· M3 CSL specific suspension settings
· M Mobility System to inflate tyres
· Tailgate with low loading sill and integrated rear spoiler
· Front apron without fog lights, with extra air intake
· Model designation M3 CSL
· Choice of Black Sapphire or Silver Grey metallic paint
· 19" double spoke alloy wheels style 67M

No cost options:

· 19? M light alloy wheels 'M3 CSL' with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres
· Auto air conditioning
· BMW Business radio / cassette
· No model inscription
· Graduated tint front windscreen
· Smoker package

Cost options:

· Climate comfort front windscreen £190.00
· Floor mats £75.00
· Park Distance Control (PDC) £340.00
· Rain sensor £160.00
· Xenon headlights with headlamp wash £770.00
· Single CD £100
· Mini disc player £295.00

Ends

See attached downloadable document for detailed technical specification table

The New BMW M3 CSL: Intelligent Lightweight Technology and Supreme Driving Dynamics. (Short version) From the Lightweight Concept to the Production Car: BMW M3 CSL. (Long version) Specifications. BMW M3 CSL Interior and Exterior Dimensions of the BMW M3 CSL Torque and Output Diagram BMW M3 CSL

A new sports car now embodies the very core of the BMW brand in its most
original style - the M3 CSL. Taking up the heritage and legendary success of
BMW's famous lightweight coupés which gained fame in touring car racing back in
the '70s, the engineers of BMW M have once again created a purist, thoroughbred
sports car consistently designed and built to the highest standard of
excellence.

In recognition of the fact that the weight spiral constantly going up can only
be brought to a halt by radically reducing all moving masses, BMW M's
engineers, in developing this new car, have turned a thrilling lightweight
concept into reality. For the new BMW M3 CSL is not only more powerful than
the already very dynamic M3, but is also a lot lighter and therefore even more
nimble.

In developing the M3 CSL, however, BMW M did not focus on the radical reduction
of weight alone. On the contrary - the task the designers and development
engineers gave themselves was to create a car full of purist driving dynamics,
a car absolutely pure in every respect, down to the very last component. And
the result, finally, is unique, absolutely unmarred driving dynamics and a
purist character.

The BMW M3 CSL thus combines supreme agility with the ultimate driving
experience. With its outstanding power-to-weight ratio of only 3.85 kg/bhp,
this new car moves into an entirely new dimension. So the engineers at BMW M
are quite sure that this sports car is able to break the 8-minute sound barrier
on the legendary Northern Circuit of Nurburgring, the ultimate benchmark in
driving dynamics.

Intelligent lightweight technology enhancing driving dynamics to a new
dimension:

The formula BMW M's specialists have followed in creating this dynamic driving
machine is 'intelligent' lightweight technology: This means consistent
reduction of weight by using the most appropriate materials at the right
point. Carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic, one of the most important materials in
Formula 1, for example, not only reduces the overall weight of the car
(weighing approximately 110 kg (243 lb) less than the standard M3), the M3 CSL
has an overall weight of just 1,385 kg (3,054 lb), but also allows even higher
speeds in bends particularly through the use of this lightweight material at
the extreme ends of the car.

Right from the front the M3 CSL, through its newly designed, muscular front air
dam made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP) with an additional engine air
intake on the driver's side demonstrates clearly that it is built for supreme
performance of the highest calibre. Flaps also clearly visible from outside
serve additionally to reduce front axle lift by a significant margin.

At the other end of the car the newly designed rear lid made of sheet moulding
compound (SMC), together with the integrated spoiler, also serves in
conjunction with the CFP rear diffuser to significantly reduce lift forces.

Innovative materials right where they are required:
The intelligent lightweight technology so typical of the M3 CSL is demonstrated
very clearly by the roof also made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic easily
recognisable as such. This large component built by specialists at BMW's
Landshut Plant is not only some six kilos lighter than a conventional roof, but
also, through its exposed position, lowers the car's centre of gravity.

Focusing on their quest to reduce weight, the engineers at BMW M took a close
look at virtually every component of the M3, in each case using the most
suitable materials in order to save weight. As a result, the M3 CSL even comes
with glass-fibre plastics otherwise used for aerospace applications such as
endless-glass-fibre thermoplastics serving as the structural material for the
through-loading system and on the rear bumper supports. Another example is the
paper-honeycomb sandwich panel used on the floor of the luggage compartment.
And like the M3, the M3 CSL also comes with an aluminium engine compartment lid
and features a special rear window made of extra-thin glass.

Just right for fast motoring: the extra-powerful engine of the M3 CSL:
The significant increase in power and performance is however not only the
result of intelligent lightweight engineering. Rather, the straight-six power
unit already renowned for its high engine speeds has been enhanced to an even
higher standard, BMW M's engineers boosting maximum output to 360 bhp (265 kW)
at 7,900 rpm from 3.2 litres capacity, that is a sensational output-per-litre
figure of 111 bhp. Maximum torque, in turn, is 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) at 4,900 rpm.

Even the engine of the M3 CSL follows the principle of minimum weight, with the
walls on the exhaust emission system being even thinner than usual and the air
collector being made of carbon fibre. The characteristic sound of motorsport,
in turn, results from the new air intake with its modified flow of air.

Featuring an extremely large intake air opening and a large air collector made
of carbon fibre, this new intake air system enables the engine to breathe in
even more air than usual, which is why the camshafts come with longer valve
opening periods.

Air intake and volume is calculated according to the same principles as in
Formula 1. And to facilitate the outgoing flow of exhaust emissions, the M3
CSL comes with optimised exhaust valves, a modified exhaust emission manifold
and funnel-shaped pipes leading into the air silencer.

With features and improvements of this kind, the BMW M3 CSL accelerates from
0?100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, reaching 200 km/h in 16.8 seconds. Top speed
is limited electronically to 250 km/h (155 mph).

Shifting gears like in Formula 1 with the M3 CSL's special gearbox:
It almost goes without saying that the M3 CSL comes with BMW M's most sporting
and dynamic transmission, the Sequential M Gearbox with Drivelogic. Also based
on Formula 1 technology, the SMG/Drivelogic transmission ensures an ultra-fast
gearshift in just 0.08 seconds on all six gears, providing a direct and
consistent flow of power at all engine speeds.

With the driver being able furthermore to choose between the sequential and an
automated gearshift mode and benefitting from Drivelogic, he has no less than
eleven different gearshift options at his disposal. And last but not least,
SMG Drivelogic has been re-designed and re-adjusted completely for the M3 CSL.

A special feature certainly worth mentioning in this context is the launch
control modified for the M3 CSL and its particular character: Whenever he
wishes to take off perfectly from a standstill, the driver, choosing the
acceleration assistant, can accelerate all the way to the top speed of the car
without intervening himself, SMG shifting gears automatically shortly before
the speed limit in each gear.

As precise and nimble as a racing car:
Wider front track and modified suspension geometry give the M3 CSL a standard
of dynamic driving performance otherwise only a thoroughbred racing car is able
to offer. These modifications include specially made springs and dampers as
well as the car's newly aligned steering for supreme, cutting-edge handling.
The brakes have also been modified for even more stopping power and faster
deceleration, allowing the M3 CLS to reach a standstill from 100 km/h in less
than 34 metres. And for special purposes on the race track, the car is also
available with sports brake linings.

The tyres of the M3 CSL are also very special: The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup
tyres developed specifically for this car measure 235/35 ZR 19 at the front and
265/30 ZR 19 at the rear and run on 8½ J x 19 (front) and 9½ J x 19 (rear)
aluminium wheels also developed especially for this car. With their asymmetric
tread, these special tyres offer truly outstanding grip on the road, again in
the interest of dynamic performance.

Sporting and functional: the cockpit of the M3 CSL:
Inside, the M3 CSL again follows the concept of supreme function and minimum
weight wherever it makes sense. Reflecting the purist standard of motorsport,
the car does without electric seat heating or a navigation system, and both the
radio and air conditioning are only available as an option. A special feature
on the clear-cut dashboard is the CFP covers on top, the centre console, door
and side linings also being made of the same material.

The glass-fibre-plastic bucket seats finished in a combination of Amaretta and
fabric not only give the driver and front passenger optimum side support, but
also tilt forwards conveniently to provide easy access to the two individually
contoured seats at the rear. For reasons of weight, seat adjustment for length
and height is manual.

A special feature in driving dynamics: the M Track Mode:
The rim of the M steering wheel featured as standard is finished in Alcantara
providing a very good and secure grip. Right behind the steering wheel are the
paddles for the SMG Drivelogic gearbox and the switch for the unique M Track
Mode is on the right spoke of the steering wheel. This special function of
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) conceived especially for motorsport allows the
driver of the M3 CSL to achieve the highest conceivable standard of
longitudinal and lateral acceleration on the race track, going to the very
limits of physical performance thanks to the new optical signal emitted in the
instrument panel whenever the system is activated. In this case DSC will
intervene only when the car is driven to its absolute limit.

Developing the new M3 CSL, BMW has redefined the limits to dynamic motoring.
And to provide a visible sign of this supreme standard, this uncompromising car
comes in only two exterior colours, Silver Grey Metallic and Black Sapphire
Metallic.