New BMW M3 and M4 revealed (but manual option does not reach SA)



[ad_1]

BMW M3 Competition and M4 Competition

The new BMW M3 Competition and M4 Competition have been (officially) revealed.

BMW M3 Competition and M4 Competition

Only the competition variants are destined for South Africa.

BMW M3 Competition

The M3 Competition offers 375 kW.

BMW M3 Competition

BMW says it will reach 100 km / h from a standstill in 3.9 seconds.

BMW M3 Competition

A closer look at the controversial grill.

BMW M3 Competition

CFRP roof is shipped standard.

BMW M3 Competition

A look at the dashboard of the M3 Competition.

BMW M4 Competition

The M4 coupe in its Sao Paulo Yellow launch color.

BMW M4 Competition

Versions for all legs will come later.

BMW M4 Competition

What do you think of the grille design?

BMW M4 Competition

M Carbon bucket seats will be available as an option.

While you’ve probably seen the new BMW M3 and M4 by now, the Munich-based firm has now officially unveiled its high-performance twins, and released all the juicy facts and figures as well.

We’ll leave it to you to make your own decision on that specific M version of the vertically arranged kidney grille and focus on the performance details instead. However, before you get there, take note that BMW Group South Africa says competition variants only will be offered locally. So that means there is no manual gearbox option for us …

So what do you need to know? Well, the new G80 generation M3 sedan and G82 generation M4 coupe are powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, which sends 353 kW and 550 Nm (the latter from 2,650 to 6,130 r / min) to the rear axle via a six-speed manual gearbox. This gear changer, BMW says, features a “gear change assistant,” which uses “engagement speed control to ensure slip-free operation when downshifting when braking around corners.”

Meanwhile, for the new M3 Competition and M4 Competition, BMW has lit the fuse for 375 kW and 650 Nm (maximum torque is offered between 2,750 and 5,500 rpm) and is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. These competition-based models will also later become the “M xDrive” all-wheel drive form.

Wondering about the mandatory sprint times of 0-100 km / h? Well, the “standard” M3 and M4 that will not be offered in South Africa have a claim 4.2 seconds to hit the target (hitting 200 km / h from a standstill in 13.7 seconds), while the rear-wheel drive Competition models explode to three figures in a 3.9 seconds (and 200 km / h in 12.5 seconds). The next variants of all legs, of course, will be even faster. The maximum speed is indicated as 250 km / h electronically regulated … or 290 kilometers per hour you must specify the M.

The Munich-based firm promises that the model-specific exhaust system (complete with electrically controlled fins) provides an “emotionally rich soundtrack.” Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, meanwhile, is standard across the range, along with variable-ratio steering and an M-specific version of the braking system, with two different settings for braking response and pedal feel.

In addition, the standard specification includes forged M light alloy wheels, with 18-inch elements wrapped in 275/40 ZR18 tires at the front and 19-inch wheels fitted in 285/35 ZR19 tires at the rear. Meanwhile, the roof is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. Interestingly, a steel roof with an integral glass moonroof will be offered as a “no-cost option” as an alternative.

Inside, you’ll find “newly developed” electrically adjustable M sports seats upholstered in fine-grain Merino leather, although BMW will also offer optional M Carbon bucket seats that allow the use of multi-point seat belts.

There is a “setup” button on the center console that provides direct access to engine, chassis, steering, and brake system setup options. As with other modern M cars, two individually composed setups can be stored and recalled for overall vehicle setup using the M buttons on the steering wheel. Standard equipment inside includes three-zone automatic climate control, LED interior lighting, and BMW Live Cockpit Professional (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality).

The first units will be delivered to South Africa in the first half of 2021, with fresh colors including Sao Paulo Yellow, Toronto Red Metallic and Isle of Man Green Metallic. An optional M Carbon exterior package and M Performance parts will also be available from launch, along with a new M Race Track package, including carbon ceramic brakes, “minimized weight” alloys (available as an option with semi-slick tires) and the M Carbon bucket seats.



[ad_2]