BMW has just announced the latest iterations of the M3 Sedan and M3 Touring, cementing their status as high-performance legends with a blend of exhilarating performance and everyday usability. These new models feature a 15 kW/20 hp increase in power for the all-wheel-drive variants, along with refreshed design and advanced digital features. The 2024 editions of the M3 showcase redesigned headlights, steering wheels, and new forged light-alloy wheels. The interior receives a boost with updated trim elements and the new BMW Operating System 8.5, enhancing the next-generation BMW iDrive experience.
The new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and the M3 Competition Touring now boast an impressive 390 kW/530 hp from the most powerful version of the six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. These all-wheel-drive models feature an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Meanwhile, the rear-wheel-drive M3 Competition Sedan and the base M3 Sedan offer 375 kW/510 hp and 353 kW/480 hp, respectively, with transmission options including a six-speed manual gearbox.
Production of all M3 variants will commence at the BMW Group Plant Munich in July 2024, targeting major markets such as the USA, China, Great Britain, Australia, and Germany. The Touring model, known for its practicality, remains particularly popular in Europe.
A Legacy of Racing Excellence and Everyday Versatility
The sixth generation of the BMW M3 continues to build on a legacy that began in 1986 with the original model, which dominated touring car racing and became a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The new M3 Touring adds practicality to the mix, combining high-performance attributes with a spacious load compartment that expands from 500 to 1,510 liters.
The M3 Touring has already garnered accolades, including the “Golden Steering Wheel” award from “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag” in Germany, and “Dream Car” of the year from “Autocar” in the UK. It is also praised by “Top Gear” as “All The Car You’ll Ever Need.”
Race-Car Inspired Engineering
All new M3 models feature a high-revving, 3.0-liter straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, delivering a linear power curve and exceptional performance. Key engineering features include a rigid crankcase, a forged crankshaft, wire-arc sprayed iron-coated cylinder bores, and a 3D-printed cylinder head core for optimized coolant routing. The cooling and oil systems are designed to handle the stresses of track driving, ensuring reliable performance under extreme conditions.
The upgraded engine control unit in the Competition models boosts output to 390 kW/530 hp, allowing the M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds, and the M3 Competition Touring in 3.6 seconds. Top speeds are electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), with the optional M Driver’s Package increasing this to 290 km/h (180 mph) for the sedans and 280 km/h (174 mph) for the Touring.
Advanced Chassis and Drivetrain
The new M3 models feature a finely tuned chassis with M-specific kinematics and elastokinematics, adaptive M suspension, M Servotronic steering, and an integrated braking system. The Competition models come with the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential, offering settings for 4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD modes.
Axle-specific M forged light-alloy wheels are standard, with new design options available in Silver for the first time. The extensive suite of driver assistance systems includes features such as Park Distance Control, Cruise Control with brake function, and various optional systems like the Driving Assistant Professional.
Interior and Digital Enhancements
The interior of the new M3 models features a redesigned M leather steering wheel, new materials for the instrument panel, and advanced digital displays. The BMW Curved Display with BMW Operating System 8.5 offers M-specific content, and options include the BMW Head-Up Display and M Carbon bucket seats. The ambient lighting and upgraded climate control system further enhance the cabin’s premium feel.
BMW M Performance Parts offer additional customization options, from exterior carbon fiber components to M Performance steering wheel trim and floor mats, allowing owners to tailor their M3 to their personal tastes.
The new BMW M3 Sedan and Touring models, with their blend of race-car performance and everyday usability, continue to uphold the legacy of the M3 series, offering an exhilarating driving experience for enthusiasts around the world.
