The new BMW M3 and M4 have arrived
Wednesday, 23 September 2020
The new BMW M3 and M4 are here, complete with big power, big tech and a big grille.
First off, the engine is the same twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six found in the BMW X3 M and X4 M, though it has been retuned to 375kW/650Nm. That power is sent to an eight-speed automatic and directed exclusively to the rear wheels. That’s right, no xDrive all-wheel drive system here, at least not initially.
Hitting 100kmh takes 3.9 seconds, a time we expect will drop when xDrive becomes an option next year. Keep the throttle pinned and you’ll hit 200kmh in 12.5 seconds.
M has added more than just power to the M3 and M4. This time around a new M Drive Professional system brings features like a specific traction control system called M Dynamic mode. This fiddles with the power and traction control, allowing controlled drifting ability.
**READ MORE:
* BMW officially confirms M3 Touring
* First drive review: BMW X5 M and X6 M
* Road test review: BMW M850i Convertible
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Speaking of, there’s also a “drift analyser” which is said to help tail-happy drivers really nail those powerslides. Factor in an M Performance exhaust system for maximum noise.
The suspension has been tweaked, with new electronically controlled shocks and something called “M-specific kinematics and elastokinematics for the front and rear axles”. Whatever that is, we’re sure it’ll only help the cars go around corners faster.
Retuned steering and adjustable brakes are part of the package too. Those brakes have two different response and pedal feel settings, which should alleviate any feelings of sponginess or touchiness.
As for the design, the polarising grille is loud and proud here. There’s not much to say aside from that Markus Flasch, head of BMW M, said reaction to the grille has so far been “extremely positive.”
The sedan and coupe have a roof made from CFRP (carbon fibre-reinforced plastic) to shave weight, a rear spoiler and a quartet of large tailpipes. Full LED headlights are standard while Adaptive Laserlight units can be optioned on.
Inside is similar to what you may have already seen in other M models. There’s lots of Merino leather trim, M buttons on the steering wheel and coloured accents. Carbon fibre shift paddles sit behind the wheel.
Newly developed, electrically adjustable M sport seats and fine-grain Merino leather trim with extended features come as standard, with seat ventilation also available for the first time.
A new part of the options list are M Carbon bucket seats with a structure-based design, which “combine racing functionality with a lightweight construction, comfort over long distances and sumptuous workmanship.”
The new M3 and M4 are due in New Zealand in Q1 next year, only available in top-spec Competition guise. Prices are yet to be announced. The M3 will be joined by a Touring variant in the next couple of years while the M4 will get a Convertible.