BMW M3 Coupe

Last year’s performance car shoot-out was one to forget for BMW. In a shock result, the German manufacturer’s M5 Touring and 130i both finished in the bottom five – a significant blow to a firm that claims to build the Ultimate Driving Machine.

Twelve months on, it’s the task of the new M3 to restore the brand’s reputation – and first impressions are extremely good. Hit the starter button and the 4.0-litre V8 erupts into life, while pressing the Power switch gives access to the full 414bhp and a sharper throttle response.

The M3 immediately feels at home on the track. Its combination of muscular engine, perfectly balanced chassis and meaty steering mean the car is as entertaining as it is rapid. Sadly, these same qualities detract a little from its on-road performance. Here the BMW’s staggeringly high limits mean low-speed driver involvement is in short supply.

Be in no doubt, though – the M3 is still an extremely fast and agile machine, while the spine-tingling soundtrack of its magnificent powerplant is unmatched by any of its competitors. Better still, its versatile four-passenger layout, large luggage area and composed ride allow the BMW to effortlessly mix performance and practicality.

So, while the M3 Coupé just misses out on a top three place, bosses at the company can rest assured that its honour is restored.

CLICK HERE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE ON BOARD HOT-LAP IN THE BMW M3 COUPE