Couple of months back – BMW officially revealed the BMW M4 at Pebble Beach, and what everyone was confused about was if that was the real car or a prototype. Fact is, it was a prototype. But a prototype that is roughly 98% percent completed and as close to the production car’s appearance. What was missing on hand was the engine specifications; and rumours has been flooding that the new M3 and M4 will come with twin-turbos and a smaller displacement. Truth?
BMW has officially released the specifications and pricing for the M3 and M4 in UK and we are sad to say.. its the truth. Sporting a new 3.0-litre straight six engine that has been turbocharged with a pair of mono-scroll turbos, throwing to the crank 431bhp and 550nm of twist. Despite losing displacement and 2 cylinders from its predecessor’s 4.0-litre V8 NA heart – the all new M3 and M4 is more powerful than the old stinger putting out an extra 15bhp.
In the chase of efficiency and improved consumption, do we think that the M3 has lost its character from the high revving, normally aspirated motors? Perhaps.. we have yet to know until we get to drive one (hopefully) but to most of the ///M enthusiasts, they may turn to be a little disappointed. Zerotohundred will be dealt with in 4.1 seconds (and 4.3 seconds with 6-speed manual).
The motor is coupled with a choice between a 6-speed manual with auto-blipping function, or the optional DCT transmission that features something BMW calls.. the Smokey Burnout function. At least we are glad to say that the M3 and M4 still remains as a proper driver’s car, as BMW has not fallen into the pit with everyone killing off the manual gearbox option with the latter, automatic, flappy-paddled dual-clutch option only.
Weighing only a shade above 1500kg – the new coupe will be 80kg lighter than its predecessor ensuring an even more lunatic experience. The saloon M3 will be 23kg heavier than the M4 but in return, you have 4-doors to carry your children to school and go sideways all-the way back home again.
We love the looks of the new M3 and M4, no doubt. The engine is still a sceptical matter, but a boosted engine is sometimes more fun than a high-revving V8 on the drive. But of course, we lose the V8 harmony that is worthy of itself more than the car.
