This is the case with the new M3 Coupe which was launched less than a year ago and it’s already available in Malaysia officially. For those who may not be familiar with the new model, this M3 generation is, for the first time, powered by a high-revving 4-litre V8 petrol engine capable of delivering a maximum output of 309 kW/420 bhp at 8300rpm. The powerplant, which is 15 kgs lighter, enables the car to go from 0 to 100km/h in a mere 4.8 seconds (claimed) and rocket on to an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The V8 features BMW’s variable double-VANOS camshaft control. Keeping valve timing extremely short and quick, this superior technology reduces charge cycle losses and, in the process, improves engine output, torque and responsiveness, with an equally positive impact on both fuel economy and emissions.

The sports coupe, built with the DNA of the current Formula 1 engine raced by the BMW Sauber F1 Team also comes with eight individual throttle butterflies, two actuators operating four butterflies on each row of cylinders to provide particularly smooth engine repose at low speeds combined with an immediate reaction whenever the driver requires supreme engine power and equally supreme performance.

“This new BMW is a driver’s dream car! It is powerful, built to aerodynamic perfection and exhilaratingly innovative,” said Wolfgang Schlimme, Managing Director, BMW Malaysia, of the new M3 which is priced at RM668,800 (without insurance premium). He added that the distinguishing factor of the thoroughbred sportscar, however, was that it not only provides racecar-like driving enjoyment but also doubles as a 4-seater coupe, making it also great for everyday use.

In engine management, the new M3 features ion flow technology that serves to detect the risk of the engine knocking as well as misfiring and miscombustion. Unlike conventional technologies, this new technology monitors the engine and performs its function precisely within the car’s combustion chamber.

Furthermore, intelligent energy management systems featuring Brake Energy Regeneration further enhances the efficiency of the V8 power unit in the new M3. Here, the power required for the on-board network is generated specifically during overrun and during application of the brakes, serving to charge the car’s battery at exactly the right time without taking up any of the energy contained in the car’s fuel. As long as the engine is “pulling” the car, therefore, the alternator generally remains disengaged. Apart from particularly efficient generation of electric power, this also serves to provide more drive power and traction for supreme acceleration at all times.
 

In designing the new M3, the engineers from BMW’s Motorsports division completely redesigned the 4th generation M3 with a commitment to lightweight technology and components. A testament to this is the fact that the new M3 is the only car in its class to feature a carbonfibre-reinforced plastic roof (CFRP) which is much lighter than a steel roof and lowers the car’s centre of gravity, further optimizing handling. Beyond its dynamic functionalism the CFRP roof emphasizes the overall innovative character which inspires the M3 design philosophy.

Additionally, the sports coupe also features a lightweight aluminium suspension system as well as fully floating high performance compound brakes that offer excellent deceleration and precise control which reduces unsprung masses and overall weight.   
     
In looks, the new M3 exudes sporting elegance and dynamism – a powerful, distinctive look with its design providing the best possible aerodynamics and optimum airflow routing to cool the engine. There’s also a new M front air dam with significant air inlets, flared wheel arches with a noticeably wider track and a powerful M rear apron with diffuser and comprehensive underside paneling that optimizes the underbody airflow control.

Inside, there is an ambience of sporty functionality and high quality workmanship with electrically adjustable M front seats; a multi-function M leather steering wheel with the MDrive button (built-in for the very first time in the M3) as well as Carbon Structure Novillo Leather seats in special colours. Also standard is the BMW Individual headliner in Anthracite.

The manual 6-speed transmission provides very precise and short throws for fast gear changes with driving dynamics programs such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Electronic Damper Control (EDC), Servotronic and the power button providing fine-tune driving characteristics.  

BMW technological offerings such as Comfort Access System, High Beam Assist, Adaptive Headlights with cornering lights, BMW Navigation System Professional, Park Distance Control (PDC) and the BMW Individual high end audio system also come standard in the new M3.

For wheels, the new M3 rolls on M light alloy wheels Double Spoke style 220M forged and polished with mixed tyres - 245/ 35 R19 in front and  265/35 R19 at the rear.