THE NEW BMW M3 COUPE AND SEDAN TO MAKE NORTH
AMERICAN DEBUT AT LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW
11/13/07
The Fourth Generation Benchmark Performance Car - Now with a V-8
Woodcliff Lake, NJ - November 2, 2007... BMW will unveil one of the
most anticipated new cars of the year as it raises the performance
benchmark once again with the North American premieres of the 2008
M3 Coupe and Sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new 4th
generation 2008 M3 Coupe and the all-new 4 door M3 Sedan will arrive
in the spring of 2008 and will feature a high-revving V-8 engine
developing 414-horsepower at 8,300rpm, a first in a
series-production BMW M3 and the highest-performing M3 ever offered
by BMW's M division.
The BMW M3 Coupe will feature a unique carbon fiber roof panel that
reduces weight by 44lbs versus the optional steel roof panel with
moonroof. Both the M3 Coupe and Sedan will feature driver-adjustable
settings for crucial dynamic controls including steering, damping
and stability (and an available steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive"
button to store the preferences) and a sports oriented interior that
can be optimized to a driver's desires. including the comprehensive
entertainment/navigation system operated through BMW's latest iDrive
controller.
Lightweight, efficient V8 at the heart of the BMW M3
The move to eight cylinders in the fourth generation BMW M3 provides
a powerplant offering the seemingly disparate characteristics of
more power, increased efficiency and reduced weight when compared
with the previous six-cylinder M3 engine. Displacing 3,999 cubic
centimeters (4.0 liters), the new light-alloy engine produces 414 hp
at 8,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm with 85
percent of the maximum torque available consistently through 6,500
rpm. This power output represents a 17% increase over the
six-cylinder from the last generation M3 yet the new engine weighs
7% less and consumes 8% less fuel than its predecessor.
Manual transmission, twin-disc clutch and Variable M Differential
Lock
Power from the BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan's V8 is transmitted to the
rear wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. The
performance parameters of the M3 dictated heat management as a key
design factor for both the transmission and clutch. The transmission
features integrated temperature-dependent oil cooling management,
while internal ventilation maximizes heat dissipation for the
twin-disc clutch.
The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock
generating up to 100 percent locking action with fully variable
action whenever required, ensuring optimum traction on all road
surfaces.
,.
Latest-generation of Dynamic Stability Control
The electronic Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) monitors driving
conditions and intervenes through the application of brakes and
reduced engine power to stabilize the BMW M3 and help avoid major
over- or under-steer situations.
In addition to engine controls and the ABS, other systems integrated
in the DSC are Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which prevents the
wheels from spinning on surfaces with reduced traction; the
Start-Off Assistant, which prevents the car from rolling back when
setting off on a grade, as well as Cornering Brake Control (CBC),
which prevents the car from spinning or swerving out of control when
applying the brakes in a bend.
The latest version of DSC includes additional functions for even
greater driving safety. Whenever the driver is likely to apply the
brakes in full within the next few seconds, the system builds up
pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit and pre-loads the brake pads
to ensure an immediate response. The Dry Braking feature removes
water film from the discs in wet conditions, thus reducing the
chance of water interfering with the braking process.
Electronic Damper Control recognizing the driver's style of driving
The optional Electronic Damper Control (EDC) allows the driver to
tailor the vehicle's chassis dynamics to his or her preference
through one of three modes: Sport, Normal and Comfort.
The response of all dynamic driving systems is carefully tailored to
the power and performance of the new BMW M3, with electronic
intervention of the various systems naturally taking the dynamics of
the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the option to
individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting the
response of the car to his personal preferences.
Interior design oriented an active driving experience with luxury
There is no question as to the heritage of the vehicle upon opening
the door of the new BMW M3 thanks to the M car logo in the door
sills. The unique nature of the vehicle carries to the dash where
the dual circular instruments typical of BMW - the speedometer and
fuel gauge as well as the tachometer and oil temperature display -
are in specific M style. A feature typical of BMW M cars is the
variable warning zone on the tachometer that informs the driver of
the recommended engine speed depending on the engine oil
temperature.
The M3's leather steering wheel, with its thumb contours resting
firmly in the driver's hands, provides an optimum grip for precise
movement of the steering wheel. The spokes within the steering wheel
incorporate the remote control buttons for the audio system and
mobile phone, as well as the optional MDrive button. An additional
auxiliary button may be programmed through the optional BMW iDrive
system.
A premium AM/FM/single-disc CD audio system comes standard with an
auxiliary input jack. Individual entertainment options include
SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio and a USB-enabled port for control
of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player. These three options can be
bundled together in the Technology Package, should one choose to
have them all together.
For vehicles equipped with Navigation, the comprehensive information
and entertainment systems are controlled by the refined BMW iDrive.
Selecting the Navigation/iDrive option also brings the
performance-oriented, steering-wheel-spoke-mounted Mdrive button.
BMW Group In America
•
Fourth-generation of the BMW M3, all-new, unique high-performance
sports car from BMW M GmbH with unprecedented design
and technology, developed on the basis of the BMW 3 Series Coupé.
• Unique
character and supreme driving dynamics secure leading position in
the market segment, unique combination of engine power and low
weight ensured by intelligent lightweight technology,
power-to-weight ratio 3.8
kg/hp.
•
First-ever BMW M3 with an eight-cylinder power unit, all-new V8
displacing 4.0 litres and developing maximum output of
309 kW/420 hp plus peak torque of 400 Nm/295 lb-ft at 3,900 rpm, maximum
engine speed 8,400 rpm, optimum power and torque throughout the
entire engine speed range.
•
Individual throttle butterflies, variable double-VANOS camshaft
control, Brake Energy Regeneration, engine weight 15 kg/33 lb less
than the
six-cylinder in the former model.
•
Acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, top speed limited
electronically to 250 km/h (155 mph), average fuel consumption in
the EU test cycle 12.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 22.8 mpg
Imp).
• Manual
six-speed gearbox with integrated, temperature-related oil cooling,
mass inertia-optimised double-plate clutch.
• MDrive
for setting and retrieving the driver’s specific configuration
of the engine control map, suspension and DSC set-up, as well as the
Servotronic control map as an additional option.
•
All-new suspension with special, weight-optimised components
as well as axle kinematics characteristic of BMW M for a highly
dynamic driving experience, forged aluminium track control arms,
compound
high-performance brake system, optional Electronic Damper Control
(EDC) with three freely available control maps.
•
First production vehicle in its segment with carbon-fibre-reinforced
roof, carbon fibre serving to reduce the weight of the vehicle and
enhance agility by lowering the centre of gravity, carbon-fibre roof
in visible technology symbolising exclusivity and a direct link to
motorsport.
•
Authentic BMW M design underlining the athletic look of the car,
aluminium engine compartment lid with a striking powerdome as a
clear signal of supreme power and performance, characteristic front
end
with large air intake scoops, muscular, powerfully flared wheel
arches.
• Air
intake gills in the front side panels, M-specific side-sills
accentuating the concept of rear-wheel drive, discreet spoiler lip
reducing lift forces
at the rear, roof in clearly visible carbon-fibre look, dual
tailpipes typical of BMW M.
•
High-quality, sophisticated and perfectly appointed interior with a
wide range of customisation, innovative colour and materials
concept,
four seats, BMW Individual high-end audio system tailored to the car
as an option, model-specific paintwork and equipment variants
highlighting
the exclusivity of the new BMW M3.
Turning Powerful Passion
into Supreme Performance:
The new 2008 BMW M3.
Entering each new
season in motorsport, we feel new and fresh ambition, query formally
proven recipes for success, and focus on new records and outstanding
achievements. And precisely this also applies to the debut of the
new BMW M3: Having completed its test cycle with flying colours, the
new high-performance sports car from BMW M GmbH is ready and waiting
to take over pole position. Indeed, with its superior power,
performance and dynamism, the new BMW M3 ensures truly unique sheer
driving pleasure of the highest calibre.
The new,
309 kW/420 hp V8 power unit offers enormous muscle and performance
at all times.
And the aesthetic design of the new car typical once again of BMW M
spells out supremacy of the highest standard.
The new BMW M3
sets the foundation for continuing an exceptional career in
motorsport. So every enthusiast sharing the passion for supreme
performance may be sure that this model is able to master even the
greatest challenge on and off the race track. And last but certainly
not least, the new BMW M3 offers the supreme standard of reliability
and everyday driving qualities so typical of all high-performance
cars from BMW M GmbH.
The all-new
“heart” of the latest BMW M3 is the eight-cylinder power unit which,
through its high-speed engine concept alone, comes with all the DNA
of the current Formula 1 engine raced by the BMW Sauber F1 Team.
Applying this high-speed concept characteristic of all BMW M power
units, the new V8 develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp from
engine capacity of precisely 3,999 cc. Further equally impressive
factors are the engine’s peak torque of 400 Newton-metres or 295
lb-ft as well as maximum engine speed of
8,400 rpm.
Truly unprecedented, however, is the thrust and pulling force
generated through this unique potential, conveying the supreme power
of the engine through the variable M differential lock to the rear
wheels. Precisely this is
why the new BMW M3
is not only outstandingly responsive in its acceleration, but also
completely shattering in the way it develops its power: Acceleration
to 100 km/h comes in just 4.8 seconds, and the car continues this
mind-boggling performance with fascinating consistency all the way
to its top speed of 250 km/h or 155 mph, where the engine
electronics set an artificial limit to the ongoing power and
performance of the new BMW M3.
Brand-new in technology
and design.
Within the BMW M
GmbH model range, the BMW M3 has always been
that very special model living up in full to its motorsport
heritage. Indeed, this already applied to the very first BMW M3
launched in 1986 and continued throughout the two subsequent model
generations. And now this supremacy comes out once again most
clearly in the 2007 version of the BMW M3.
Although the
latest generation of the BMW M3 was based in its development on the
new BMW M3 Coupé, the new high-performance model differs from the
“regular” coupé in terms of both looks and technical features. Apart
from the car’s unique design as well as its drivetrain and
suspension technology conceived from the start for supreme
performance, lightweight technology came right at the top in the
brief given to the engineers at BMW M. And just how consistently
this development target has been translated into reality in terms of
intelligent lightweight engineering is borne out by the car’s
power-to-weight ratio of only 3.8 kg (8.4 lb) per horsepower.
One of the reasons
for this low weight is that the new BMW M3 is the first production
car in its segment to boast a roof made of carbon-fibre-reinforced
plastic (CFP). And in all, the new BMW M3, with the exception of
just a few components, is indeed completely new in its engineering
and design concept, clearly reflecting the successful tradition of
BMW M GmbH.
Apart from the
load-bearing structure of the car, only the two doors,
the bootlid, the windows, the headlights and rear lights have been
carried
over from the 3 Series Coupé. All other body components, by
contrast,
were specially developed for the new BMW M3.
The unique
character of the new BMW M3 is obvious at first sight: Over and
above the engine compartment lid with its striking powerdome and the
two
air intake openings, the function-oriented design of the front and
rear air dams, the so-called gills in the front side panels, the
side-sills also in distinctive design, the roof made of clearly
visible carbon fibre, as well as the exterior mirrors and
light-alloy wheels in BMW M design clearly characterise the new
model from the ground up. The exterior, in turn, through its
athletic and aesthetic appearance, powerfully underlines the
sporting qualities of the car.
The exterior
paintwork likewise adds an individual touch, offering the
connoisseur not only numerous additional colours, but also four
special paintwork options exclusive to BMW M.
The interior: tailor-made
for optimum driving pleasure.
In designing the
interior, the specialists at BMW M GmbH have succeeded
in offering the occupants maximum driving pleasure in an ambience
tailored to their specific needs and wishes. This applies
particularly to the driver, with all controls and instruments
relating directly to the active driving experience in the car
adapted to the supreme performance of the BMW M3 and re-designed
from the ground up wherever appropriate.
Double circular
instruments with white illumination and red needles, the M leather
steering wheel and the newly designed centre console all
characterise the cockpit of the new BMW M3. The door cutout trim
embellished by
the characteristic M logo, the support for the driver’s left foot
made of brushed metal, the special design and colour of the inner
door panels, as well as the trim strip made of high-quality,
sophisticated materials exclusive to BMW M such as leather in carbon
design or aluminium, all serve to underline the supreme and truly
unique position of the new BMW M3.
The first-ever
eight-cylinder to power a BMW M3.
After 15 glorious years in the
world of motoring, the straight-six power unit lauded time and again
as the Engine-of-the-Year in the two former model generations of the
BMW M3 is now giving way to a truly worthy successor: The new BMW M3
comes for the first time with an eight-cylinder power unit. And the
specifications of this all-new high-performance engine clearly
prove the competence and skill of the engine development specialists
at BMW M GmbH gained in a long history of racing success: Displacing
3,999 cc, the new V8 develops maximum output of
309 kW/420 hp, together with peak torque of 400 Newton-metres or 295
lb-ft at 3,900
rpm. Perhaps an even more outstanding fact is that some 85 per cent
of the engine’s peak torque remains available throughout the
enormous speed range of 6,500
rpm.
The
eight-cylinder nevertheless owes its most striking and distinctive
forte to the high-speed engine concept so typical of BMW M: Revving
all the way to 8,400 rpm, the new power unit offers supreme muscle
and performance at all times. Power is transmitted to the rear
wheels by a six-speed manual gearbox interacting with brand-new
final drive. This combination alone provides an acceleration and
power potential reminiscent in its spontaneity and endurance to the
dynamic potential of a thoroughbred racing car.
Over
and above specific output of 105 hp per litre, average fuel
consumption in the EU test cycle of 12.4 litres/100 km (equal to
22.8 mpg Imp) offers a
clear expression of the engineering skill so characteristic of the
engine specialists at BMW M GmbH.
Weighing a mere 202 kg (445 lb), the V8 power unit
featured in the new BMW M3 is a genuine lightweight. Even compared
with the six-cylinder power unit in the former model, engine weight
is down by some 15 kg or 33 lb.
Production of components
using know-how carried over from Formula 1.
The engine block featured on the
new eight-cylinder comes from BMW’s light-alloy foundry in Landshut
near Munich, which also builds the engine
blocks for the supreme racing machines entered in Formula 1 by BMW
Sauber. The crankcase is made of a special aluminium/silicon
alloy eliminating the need for conventional cylinder liners, since
the cylinder surface is formed instead by exposing the hard silicon
crystals integrated in the alloy. The iron-coated pistons thus run
directly in these uncoated, honed cylinder bores.
With the high speed of the
engine and high compression forces obviously exerting extreme loads
on the crankcase, the crankcase is compact and particularly stiff in
its bedplate structure, ensuring very exact support of the
crankshaft. Made as
a complete forging, the crankshaft is very stable in
terms of flexural and torsional stiffness, but nevertheless weighs a
mere 20 kg or approximately 44 lb.
Valve control by double
-VANOS operating at low oil pressure.
The V8 power unit of the new BMW
M3 features BMW’s variable double-VANOS
camshaft control. Keeping valve timing extremely short and quick,
this superior technology reduces charge cycle losses and, in the
process, improves engine output, torque and responsiveness, with an
equally positive impact on both fuel economy and emissions.
A low-pressure
version of BMW’s double-VANOS has been developed especially for the
new eight-cylinder, ensuring extremely fast valve timing even under
normal engine oil pressure.
A separate throttle butterfly
for each cylinder is the most supreme and sophisticated technology
not only on racing engines when it comes
to providing immediate engine response. So precisely this is why the
new power unit on the BMW M3 comes with eight individual throttle
butterflies, two actuators operating four butterflies on each row of
cylinders to provide particularly smooth engine repose at low speeds
combined with an immediate reaction whenever the driver requires
supreme engine power and equally supreme performance.
Two volume flow-controlled
pendulum-slide-cell pumps supply the eight-cylinder with sufficient
lubricant at all times, delivering precisely the amount of oil the
engine requires under current running conditions. Wet sump
lubrication optimised for driving dynamics ensures a reliable supply
of oil even in an extreme brake manoeuvre, with the system combining
two oil sumps with one another – a small oil sump in front of the
front axle subframe and a large
oil sump further behind. A separate oil reflow pump extracts oil
from the front oil sump and delivers it to the rear sump again in a
smooth process geared
to current requirements.
New engine management and
Brake Energy Regeneration.
The electronic management of the
V8 power unit coordinating all engine functions with optimum
efficiency and precision, is yet another new development. A further
point is that the control unit masterminds all the M-specific
functions of the clutch, transmission, steering, and brakes.
And last but not least, the engine control unit performs a wide
range of on-board diagnostic functions, as well as other control
operations involving,
say, various ancillary units on the engine.
A particular
highlight in engine management is ion flow technology
serving to detect the risk of the engine knocking as well as
mis-firing and
mis-combustion. Contrary to conventional technologies, this new
technology monitors the engine and performs its function precisely
where things
count most, that is within the combustion chamber. To do this, each
cylinder is checked via the spark plug for any possible knocking,
and is then controlled accordingly. At the same time the system
checks the ignition and recognises any mis-firing, the spark plug
thus serving as an actuator for the ignition and as a sensor
monitoring the combustion process. In this way the spark plug is
able to distinguish between mis-combustion and mis-firing, also
facilitating the process of engine diagnosis for highly efficient
service and maintenance through its dual function.
Intelligent energy management
featuring Brake Energy Regeneration likewise serves to further
enhance the efficiency of the V8 power unit in the
new BMW M3. In this case the power required for the on-board network
is generated specifically during overrun and during application of
the brakes, serving to charge the car’s battery at exactly the right
time without taking up any of the energy contained in the car’s
fuel. As long as the engine is “pulling” the car, therefore, the
alternator generally remains disengaged. Apart from particularly
efficient generation of electric power, this also serves to provide
more drive power and traction for supreme acceleration at all times.
Aluminium suspension for
driving pleasure of the highest standard.
Smoothly and efficiently sharing
out steering and drive forces on the front and rear axle, the
chassis and suspension of the new BMW M3 provides the ideal
foundation right from the start for particularly dynamic performance
and driving characteristics. The chassis of the new BMW M3 is indeed
a brand-new development from the ground up, seeking to cope from the
start with the significant increase in drive power and save a lot of
weight in the process.
Precisely this is why nearly all components on the newly developed
front axle are made of aluminium, among them the spring struts even
stiffer than before, the swivel bearings, the central subframe and
an additional thrust plate enhancing crosswise stability of the
entire front section. Indeed, the engineers at BMW GmbH have even
succeeded in saving additional weight on the high-performance brake
system with its compound brake discs.
The five-arm
rear axle of the BMW M3 in lightweight technology is also a
brand-new construction from the ground up, with the exception of one
single track control arm. The particular design and construction of
all aluminium
arms in forging technology, in conjunction with the aluminium
dampers, serves to reduce weight on this part of the car alone by
2.5 kg or 5.5 lb.
Anti-roll bars
optimised for their function and minimum weight are featured both
front and rear. The change in axle geometry in both cases –
featuring two additional longitudinal bars, apart from other new or
modified components – offers new axle kinematics tailored to the
high power of the car and its particularly sporting and dynamic
overall character.
The new final
drive on the BMW M3
comes complete with a Variable M Differential Lock providing up to
100 per cent locking action in a completely variable process
whenever required and thus ensuring optimum traction
on all surfaces. Responding to differences in speed between the
right and left rear wheel, the Variable M Differential Lock also
offers ideal support further enhancing the positive features and
characteristics of rear-wheel drive.
The result of
these many improvements on the chassis and suspension also comes out
clearly on the race track, the new BMW M3 significantly
outperforming the lap times of all model
generations on the Nordschleife of Nürburgring, where all BMW M Cars
are put through their paces for their ultimate test.
MDrive button for the
ambitious driving enthusiast.
Enjoying the
qualities of the new BMW M3, the driver is able
to configure several driving parameters indivdually according to his
particular requirements, thus adjusting the car’s behaviour and
performance to his personal preferences. One option, for example, is
to completely deactivate the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) via the
car’s set-up. Electronic Damper Control
(EDC), in turn, which optimises both vertical vibration behaviour as
well as the car’s dive and roll in bends and when applying the
brakes and accelerating by adjusting damper forces, comes with three
different settings – Normal, Comfort, and Sports – the driver is
able to pre-select at the touch of a button.
Three control
maps are also available for precise, on-demand management of the
engine. These management functions operate not only on the position
of the throttle butterflies in the intake manifold, but also on
further factors and parameters significantly changing the behaviour
and response of the engine.
The optionally
available MDrive configuration enables the driver to pre-select the
response of the Servotronic power steering. In the process, MDrive
is
able to follow two control maps varying steering forces between the
Normal and Sports setting as a function of road speed.
Athletic body design as a
visible expression of superior power.
The exterior of the new BMW M3 was designed and
developed from the start to give the car a truly unique and sporting
look. So applying the principle of "form
follows function”, the designers at BMW M GmbH, in giving the body
of the car its particular look and appearance, have succeeded in
finding
a perfect match of supreme technology, on the one hand, and
authentic sporting design, on the other.
Reflecting this clear-cut
principle, the engine compartment lid made of aluminium features an
impressive powerdome right in the middle.
Together with the recesses right next to the powerdome providing
space for additional air intake openings, this special design
feature clearly hints
to the supreme potential of the eight-cylinder power unit within the
engine compartment. The contours of the powerdome and air intakes
follow
the forward-pointing arrow shape of the engine compartment lid,
blending harmoniously into the overall design of the front end even
longer than
on the “regular” BMW 3 Series Coupé.
Front end designed for
maximum air intake.
The front end of the car boasts
three large air intake scoops beneath the radiator grille serving to
feed intake and cooling air to the engine. The air intake scoops
border on either side on large, vertical bars and further enhance
the characteristic design language of the car. Together with the
double kidney
grille so typical of BMW and the
low-slung headlight units with their
xenon main beams, the air intakes give the new BMW M3 a highly dynamic
appearance right from the start.
Primarily, however, the
particular design and structure of the front end is determined by
the supply of air required for the high-performance power unit:
Almost the entire front end opens up to supply the naturally
aspirated engine with a sufficient flow of air. So it is only
consistent that the new BMW M3,
like BMW M Cars in general, does without the foglamps so
characteristic of the “regular” models in the range.
In their function and size, all
the air intakes are precisely defined according to technical
requirements. Their arrangement and dimensions are geared precisely
to the cooling and intake air required by the engine and its
ancillary units.
Light and shade effects
creating a firm and taut side-line.
The powerfully
chiselled front wheel arches on the new
BMW M3 stand out clearly as a symbol of supreme agility and driving
stability.
Together with the weight-optimised 18-inch light-alloy wheels in
double-spoke design again so typical of a BMW M, the wheel arches
accentuate the particularly wide track
of the car.
Forged light-alloy
wheels measuring 19 inches are available as an option.
And looking through the spokes of the wheels, regardless of the
version chosen, the beholder will immediately admire the compound
high-performance brakes developed exclusively for BMW M Cars.
Both front side
panels come with a particular sign of distinction to be seen only on
a BMW M Car – the air intake “gills”, as they are called by the
designers. The elaborately modelled contours of the car highlight
the course of the profile line extending back along the side. The
chrome trim distinguishing between the various sections, in turn,
further enhances the three-dimensional structure of this particular
element, accommodating
both the long and sweeping direction indicator as well as the M3
logo.
The exterior
mirrors developed exclusively for the new
BMW M3 also serve to enhance the car’s aerodynamic qualities. The
most characteristic feature on the mirrors is the double arm
finished in black and reminiscent in its design of the wings of an
aircraft. Through their horizontal contour edge and their particular
shape narrowing to the outside, the exterior mirrors not only
accentuate the sporting look of the car, but also help to reduce air
drag thanks to their particular shape optimised in the wind tunnel.
Two surface elements literally twisting around one another form the
significantly flared side-sills and generate a smooth but
interchanging flow of light serving to give the car an even lighter
and more sporting look from this angle by making the side panels
look even lower. In their design, the side-sills correspond with the
particular shape and appearance of the clearly contoured profile
line along the body. A further point is that the distinctive
contrast of
light and shade generates a feeling of tension on the likewise
muscular, widely flared side panels and the wheels beneath, thus
giving particular emphasis
to the significance of rear-wheel drive in the outstanding
performance it gives the new BMW M3.
Discreet spoiler lip and
rear diffuser for optimum aerodynamics.
Seen from the
rear, the new
BMW M3 again boasts superior and powerful proportions. At the same
time the rear end design of the car takes up the characteristic look
of the front end, the side-line moving down smoothly and gently and
the rear wings extending into a carefully chiselled concave
panel underlining the concept of rear-wheel drive and visualising
the superior dynamics of the car.
A discreet spoiler lip on the lid of the luggage compartment also
referred
to in racing terms as the “Gurney Flap” optimises the streamlining
of the new BMW M3 and serves to further reduce lift forces at the
rear.
The contours of
the diffuser split up into individual sections by carefully modelled
bars beneath the rear bumper again takes up the shape and design of
the air intakes at the front. The air flow duct and the dual
tailpipe moved far towards the centreline of the car appear to
visually contract the rear end in the lower middle section, building
up a feeling of superior tension in the eyes of
the beholder extending all the
way to the horizontally flowing lines of the bumper.
As yet another
feature typical of BMW M Cars, the four tailpipes are circular in
shape and cut off in a straight line at the rear, giving the rear
end an even more muscular stance and again focusing the beholder’s
attention on the powerful wheels of the car.
Roof in high-tech
carbon-fibre: low weight, big effect.
Carbon-fibre has
made its way successfully into Formula 1 as an extremely stable, but
nevertheless very light material. So it is only consistent for the
designers and engineers responsible for the new BMW M3 to use
precisely this material originally applied in aerospace in order to
further lower the centre of gravity of the new
BMW M3 – carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP) is used where it
counts most, on the outer skin of the car, saving about 5 kg or 11
lb
in the process. With this weight being saved at the highest point on
the body, the effect on driving dynamics is of course particularly
positive.
To enhance the high-tech character of the car also in visual terms,
the roof is finished only in clear paint, thus proudly maintaining
and demonstrating the woven structure of the carbon fibre.
A further point is that the dark look of the roof makes the roof
pillars look even lower from the side, creating the impression as if
the entire car were resting in an even lower and more dynamic
position on the road.
The production
technology developed especially for the CFP roof is currently
applied exclusively by BMW’s specialists at the Company’s plant in
Landshut just north of Munich. Originally, this technology was
developed for the production of very special cars built in limited
editions for the most demanding connoisseurs. And now, thanks to the
unique know-how of BMW’s production engineers at the Landshut Plant,
new ways and means of using and processing CFP have been developed,
opening up the door to the use of this material in far larger
numbers, for example on the roof of the new BMW M3.
Special M body colours
adding a further touch of exclusivity.
The new
BMW M3 is available with a choice of no less than four M metallic
paintwork options giving particular emphasis to the interaction of
the body surfaces, the contours and proportions of the car. Coming
with a light shimmering effect, Melbourne Red, for example, combines
unique brilliance and colour depth.
Jerez Black, on the other hand, boasts blue pearl pigments to again
provide unique highlights and unprecedented appeal. Powerful
Interlagos Blue, in turn, incorporates red colour pigments to
provide a highly attractive interaction of blue and violet from
various angles.
The fourth colour
already well known from the BMW M5 and BMW M6 is Silverstone, a
light silver colour with a slight touch of blue.
In addition, the
new
BMW M3 is available in both Alpine White and Black as well as Sparkling Graphite
and Space Grey metallic, all body colours highlighting either the
technical and sporting character of the car or its superior and
elegant look.
Another feature typical
of BMW M: rev counter with variable warning zones.
The exterior
impressively symbolises the outstanding performance and sporting
qualities of the new
BMW M3. The interior, in turn, supplements this supreme flair,
seeking to offer the driver an unparalleled driving experience
and all the other occupants a beautiful ambience tailored to their
needs.
Well-conceived and sophisticated ergonomics within the interior
serve to ensure a complete symbiosis of man and machine, the driver
and passenger coming together to form one complete whole.
In its design,
however, the new
BMW M3 differs on some essential points from the “underlying” BMW 3
Series Coupé, making the new BMW M3 a truly unmistakable car right
from the beginning as soon as you get inside. Indeed, door entry
trim embellished with the M logo shows the driver and passengers
from the start that this is a very special car.
The dual dials
(speedometer/fuel gauge and rev counter/oil temperature) typical of
BMW from the start come in this case in specific BMW M
configuration, again visualising the supreme power and performance
of the eight-cylinder. The numbers stand out in white from the black
background,
the indicators in the traditional red colour of BMW M GmbH are
particularly clear and easy to monitor
A special feature
typical of a BMW M Car is the rev counter with its variable warning
field informing the driver while the engine is warming up of the
speed range currently available as a function of engine oil
temperature. In this process, the borderline between the pre-warning
zone shown in yellow and the actual warning area shown in red moves
as a function of increasing oil temperature in the
BMW M3 all the way to the maximum permissible speed of 8,400
rpm. The digital instruments presenting the time, the exterior
temperature, trip mileage and telltales are housed in between the
two circular instruments.
The BMW M leather
steering wheel serves as the perfect interface between man and
machine. The steering wheel rim offering simply perfect grip
also thanks to special contours allows precise movement of the
steering wheel according to the driver’s commands. The
cross-brackets on the steering wheel, in turn, house the remote
control buttons for the audio system and mobile phone as well as the
optional MDrive button serving to call up
the particular set-up of the car saved in advance within the system.
A further button is freely programmable by means of iDrive.
An integrated
footrest gives the driver’s left foot a secure position whenever he
is not required to operate the clutch pedal. The trim made of
brushed aluminium and the anti-slip cover in the middle highlight
the sporting character of this functional element, allowing the
driver to keep his left leg in a particularly comfortable position
while driving steadily at a consistent speed.
Newly designed centre
console and enhanced iDrive.
The control area
in the cockpit directly in front of the driver merges into the newly
designed centre console between the front seats oriented in its
entire geometry to the driver through its discreet sweeping
arrangement.
On all trim versions of the new
BMW M3, the console is finished in
black leather, harmoniously extending the instrument surrounds and
control
area in both the right colour and design.
Three function switches (Power, DSC and, as an option, EDC) face
towards the driver, enabling him to conveniently activate or
deactivate the various electronic driving programs. The intuitive
user guidance provided by the iDrive control concept and enhanced in
this case by MDrive reflects the control philosophy already boasted
in the BMW
M6.
Quality craftsmanship and
sophisticated materials.
Apart from the
clear design and optimum ergonomics of all controls and instruments,
the choice of colours and materials within the interior of the new
BMW M3 seeks to support the driver in concentrating on driving
conditions and the traffic around him.
Regardless of the colour chosen, the footwells and parcel shelf as
well as the upper half of the instrument panel are finished in dark
Anthracite. At the
same time the dark roof lining and dark trim on the A-pillars
further accentuate
the clear orientation to the driver so typical of BMW M. This dark
colour scheme around the windscreen helps the driver furthermore to
concentrate his eyes and all senses on the road, giving him a
particularly good feeling of through, consistent control over his
vehicle.
The colour scheme surrounding the front passenger and the passengers
at the rear likewise enhances their feeling of travelling in a
genuine sports car: Through the use of black leather on the upper
levels both the door panels and the rear side panels appear to be
lower and even more dynamic in their dimensions, the dark areas
seemingly “flowing” around the driver and passengers.
The sporting
ambience within the interior is upgraded even further by an
exclusive impression of quality provided by high-class materials and
perfect finish in top-class craftsmanship. A double-clip seam
accentuating the demanding character of the car and its high
standard of production separates the upper section of the door and
side linings from the interior elements kept in the trim colour
chosen by the driver.
All four seats in
the new BMW M3 offer both supreme comfort on long distances and
excellent side support in fast bends. As an option, both the driver
and the front passenger are able to choose special seats with
adjustable backrest width. The rear seat bench comes complete with
through-loading available as an option with a ski-bag retrofittable
if desired. And last but not least, the partition between the two
rear seats designed as an extension of the centre console houses an
additional storage box for extra convenience.
Wide range of
customisation within the interior
The new
BMW M3 is available in three exclusive equipment and trim variants
differing significantly from the “regular” BMW 3 Series Coupé in
their material, colour and finish. The sporting, “basic” trim is a
combination of cloth
and leather called “Speed”. Newly developed,
fully tanned Novillo leather then comes as an option offering a
particularly smooth and velvety surface
in elegant and sporting style. Apart from classic Black, Novillo
leather is also available in Palladium Silver, Bamboo Beige, and Fox
Red.
As a further
option, Novillo leather can be extended to the lower section of the
instrument panel, the cover on the glove compartment, and the side
covers on the centre console.
Four exclusive
trim strips extending throughout the entire width of the dashboard
beneath the Control Display and instrument cluster, provide further
options in customising the new BMW M3. The “basic” trim comes in
Titanium Shadow, with Aluminium Shadow and special leather tanned in
carbon design as well as high-class wood in fine-grain surface
design and platane wood in Anthracite all being available as an
option. In each case, the trim strip gives the interior of the new
BMW M3 its own very special touch ranging from cool
high-tech to sporting elegance.
BMW Individual high-end
audio system for perfect music enjoyment.
The new BMW M3 comes as standard
with a high-class audio system. Various navigation systems, the BMW
Online mobile internet portal,
BMW Assist telematics service, and BMW TeleServices serving to
transmit service-relevant data to the driver’s BMW Service Partner
are all available
as optional extras.
As yet a
further option the new BMW M3 may also be fitted
with a BMW Individual high-end audio system
specially developed by BMW M GmbH and tailored exclusively to this
special car. In this case up to 16 high-performance loudspeakers
with neodym magnetic drive and extremely stiff hexacone membranes, a
digital nine-channel amplifier with maximum output of 825 Watt and
precisely acting frequency switches, guarantee unparalleled quality
of sound.
A feature
truly unique in the automobile is DIRAC live technology
serving to process signals. DIRAC technology corrects the impulse
response by the loudspeakers and thus ensures linear, precisely
timed playback within the car. The clean impulse quality generated
in this way in the playback process gives not only the drier, but
rather all occupants in the new BMW M3 an extremely versatile and
realistic experience of sound.
Sound quality
truly perfect in all situations is also ensured by speed-related
volume control and speed-related equalising.
The BMW
Individual high-end audio system is controlled and masterminded by
the iDrive Controller, with its basic functions also being
controlled whenever required, as with all entertainment systems, via
the audio control elements
in the centre console.
