New BMW M3 spy shots

Text: Luke Madden / Photos: Automedia

12th August 2011

The first BMW M3 with turbo power is ready to charge in. Our spies have got the best glimpse yet at the next-generation supersaloon, which looks set to be one of the firm’s best all-rounders yet.

The standard 3 Series hasn’t even been unveiled to the public yet, but these images reveal the M version is not far off. Clearly visible are muscular wheelarches, an aggressive front bumper and a larger rear apron, including the trademark quad exhaust pipes. The wheels are taken from the current car, but expect the finished version to come with unique lightweight designs.

Using lessons learned from BMW’s eco-friendly i brand, the newcomer will employ hi-tech materials such as aluminium and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic to slash weight, boost performance and provide even more nimble rear-wheel-drive handling.

The M3 is rumoured to be getting an engine that lives up to its name, in the form of a 3.3-litre straight-six unit fitted with three turbochargers – two driven by exhaust gases and one driven by electricity. This unique set-up is rumoured to offer around 450bhp – that’s compared to the 414bhp produced by the current 4.0-litre V8.

The car pictured here is based on the four-door saloon. But it’s likely that the two-door coupe will arrive in the UK first – as was the case with the existing version – some time in 2014, with a price tag in the region of £60,000.