BMW's New Beastly M3: A 523bhp Four-Wheeled Fury
BMW has taken the veil off its latest iteration of the M3 Competition, and car enthusiasts are in for a real treat. This mid-life facelift brings not just aesthetic enhancements, but also an impressive boost in performance and technological sophistication.
Under the hood, the new M3 roars with a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six engine—still the powerhouse codenamed B58. Although it's the same engine as before, it now delivers an extra 20bhp, upping the total power output to a staggering 523bhp and a mighty 479lb ft of torque. All thanks to an expertly refined ECU remap.
Power and Precision Performance
One of the most thrilling updates is the M3's exclusive four-wheel-drive configuration, available solely in the Competition variant. Power is predominantly rear-biased but can be diverted entirely to the rear wheels if one dares to disable the stability control. This enhancement ensures that driving purists can still get their adrenaline rush while enjoying an added layer of traction and control.
The M3's power delivery peaks at loftier revs now, with maximum power hitting at 6250 rpm compared to the older model's 5600rpm. Even more enticing, the peak torque sustains longer, maxing out at 5730rpm rather than 5500rpm. These tweaks make for a more aggressive and sustained performance, perfect for those who relish the thrill of the track.
Speed Demons, Rejoice
Speed enthusiasts will find plenty to love here. The revised M3 slashes its 0-62mph time to a thrilling 3.5 seconds, a full 0.4 seconds quicker than its predecessor. The top speed stands at a computer-limited 155mph but opt for the M Driver's package, and you can push the boundaries to 180mph in the saloon (or 174mph in the M3 Touring estate). Even the 0-125mph times see a significant reduction, standing at 11.8 seconds for the saloon and 12.4 seconds for the estate variant.
Subtle Yet Sharp Aesthetic Enhancements
Externally, the revised M3 boasts a slew of subtle yet impactful styling tweaks. New arrow-shaped LED headlights provide a distinctive look, while redesigned alloy wheel designs (19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear) add a more robust stance. The M3 badging has been refreshed too, ensuring that this beast stands apart from the pack.
Technological Marvels Await Inside
Step inside, and the changes are even more groundbreaking. The latest iDrive infotainment system makes its debut, replacing the standard 3 Series system. This upgrade includes a customizable widget bar, augmented reality for the sat-nav, and cutting-edge 5G connectivity, aligning the car more closely with the modern driver's digital life. Connectivity with the MyBMW app has also been streamlined, making it easier than ever to keep your car and your life in sync.