BMW has released some official images of its forthcoming M3 Saloon and M4 Coupé. Both will be powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine complete with M TwinPower Turbo technology to produce 431hp and 550Nm of torque. Through the use of lightweight materials, including carbon-fibre both models have a substantial weight loss over their predecessor. Both cars will come equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional seven-speed M double clutch transmission available. The manual transmission has a new throttle blipping function for downshifts. This drive is transferred to the rear wheels via an active M differential which uses an electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential to optimise traction and direction stability.
The level of standard equipment is extensive and includes, 19” M alloy wheels, adaptive M suspension, front and rear parking sensors, heated electric M seats and BMW Professional Media package with upgraded Bluetooth system. The new BMW M3 Saloon and M4 Coupé will be launched in Ireland on the 21st June 2014, with prices commencing from €100,050 for the M3 Saloon and €100,890 for the M4 Coupé.