See all Motoring NewsBMW has release details of its new M3 Competition Saloon and M4 Competition Coupe. Thirty five years after the debut of the very first BMW M3, BMW is launching both models with increased power, new styling and enhanced M-specific features for track driving.
While the BMW M3 Competition Saloon offers space for five passengers, the new M4 Competition is a four seater coupe, but both cars offer a track-focused driving experience. Under the bonnet of both cars lies a 510hp high-revving straight six engine with M TwinPower turbo technology, which is coupled with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. For the first time in the history of the M3 and M4, M xDrive all-wheel drive versions of both cars will also be available from summer 2021 for added traction and stability.
The 3.0-litre straight-six engine in both cars 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 100kmph in 3.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250kmph, rising to 290kmph if the optional M Pro Package is specified.
Other changes include increased chassis rigidity, adaptive m suspension, new M Compund brakes for added stopping power, a dual0branch exhaust system with a fantastic soundtrack and enhanced customisation of driving modes.
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 are also standard.
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.