BMW M3 - Pictures

Design: only the doors, bootlid, lights and windows are shared with the standard 3-Series Coupé. The 18-inch wheels come supplied, with 19-inch rims optional. Trademark M detailing, such as the bonnet bulge and side gills, helps

Interior: the BMW’s driver-focused cabin features titanium trim as standard. Alternatively, you can specify carbon-look leather (fitted to our car), wood or aluminium, while the seats are both leather and electric.

Engine: now more powerful than ever, the V8 M3 still offers improved economy. The new eight-cylinder powerplant is actually 15kg lighter than the 3.2-litre straight-six in the previous generation.

Drive button: owners can personalise the car’s functions via the MDrive button. Settings available include three damper modes, a trio of traction control levels, plus variable throttle response and steering assistance. 

Handling: with the traction control off and the steering, throttle and dampers in their most sporty mode, the M3 becomes a hardedged, raucous car. It requires skill to master, but rewards in a way that the RS4 simply can’t.