Sixth-generation BMW M3 and M4 break cover

BMW has unveiled the sixth-generation M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe, 35 years after the launch of the very first M, the legendary E30 M3.

Powered by the latest version of the 3.0-litre, inline six-cylinder turbo S58 engine producing up to 503 horsepower, the new M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe also offer the choice of a six-speed manual transmission.

Exclusive exterior paint colours, forged M light-alloy wheels, a carbon fibre roof and the optional M Carbon exterior package add to the M3 and M4’s distinctive looks.

Dimensionally, the new M3 Sedan is 4.6-inches longer, 0.4-inches wider, 0.1-inch higher and with a 1.8-inch longer wheelbase than the previous generation car. The new M4 Coupe is 4.6-inches longer, 0.7-inches wider, 0.4-inches higher and with a 1.8-inch longer wheelbase than the M4 that it replaces.

Both the M3 and the M4 have undergone hours of intensive testing at BMW Group’s Miramas testing facility in the South of France, at the winter testing centre in Arjeplog, Sweden, and the Nurburgring’s Nordschleife.

They come equipped with standard Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers. These use electromagnetically controlled valves which react in milliseconds to generate variable damping force for each individual wheel.

The M integrated braking system offers two driver-selected settings for brake pedal feel. The M Traction Control system, part of the M Drive Professional, introduces a new integrated wheel slip limitation function which can be adjusted through 10 stages based on the driver’s preferences and needs.

The standard M Servotronic steering combines speed-sensitive assistance with a variable steering ratio allowing the M-tuned system to deliver precise handling and easier manoeuvring at low speeds

Signature M details in the cabin include red 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 in the Competition models is leather covered with an embedded M logo and stitching in M GmbH colours.

The M sport seats get fine-grain Merino leather trim, pronounced side bolsters, integrated head restraints and an illuminated model badge.

Four models will be offered at the global market launch in March 2021: the RWD, manual-transmission M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe and the RWD, automatic transmission M3 Competition Sedan and M4 Competition Coupe. BMW says summer 2021 will see the addition of M xDrive for the Competition models.