August 2007
The BMW M3 has always been one of the most popular and
desirable cars from the German manufacturer, and the introduction of
this generation M3 was greatly anticipated. Designed to be a high
performance machine yet docile enough to use every day, the M3 also has
to face rivals more capable than ever before.
The basic template for the M3 has remained unchanged, with a two-door
coupe bodystyle. Like M3s before it, this version wears exterior
enhancements to separate it from ordinary coupe models. In reality, BMW
claim the M3 shares only a handful of exterior parts with other coupes,
and the differences are obvious. The front and rear bumpers are heavily
sculpted for aerodynamic efficiency, and are made from lightweight
plastic, as are the flared front wings. The aluminium bonnet has a
distinct power bulge to accommodate the bigger engine, while the roof
is made from an exotic mix of carbonfibre and plastic for light weight
and strength.
The bonnet bulge is necessary, as
underneath lies an all-new 4.0-litre V8 engine, the first time an M3
has used an eight-cylinder unit. Loosely based on the 10-cylinder units
found in larger M cars, it retains the traditional M3 characteristics
with its high-revving nature - the rev limit is set at a stratospheric
8,400rpm. Yet its large capacity gives it a strong torque output,
making for an ideal mix of high and low rev response.
The changes underneath are just as
significant, as the M3 uses re-engineered lightweight suspension
components and a minimum of standard parts. Incorporated into the
revised suspension layout are stiffer springs and uprated dampers, plus
a host of electronic devices. Electronic dampers are available as an
option, allowing the driver to tailor the suspension settings depending
on the conditions.
The M3 also uses the M Drive Manager, a
button mounted on the steering wheel which allows the driver to switch
to preset selections for the stability control, throttle and steering
settings and electronic damper settings where fitted. This highlights
the M3s multi-purpose nature, allowing it to switch for cruiser to high
performance machine with the push of a button.
Exterior changes add to the visual appeal
Ratings
Overall Rating
Value for money
Costs
Space and Practicality
Controls and display
Comfort
Security
Safety
Likes
V8 engine is a delight to use
Exterior is attractive and distinctive
Cabin is understated but well designed and comfortable
M3 is hardily more demanding to drive than any 3-Series
Gripes
Fuel consumption is inevitably high
Gearshift is occasionally obtrusive
No middle rear seat
Dashboard is little changed from regular 3-Series
Our Verdict
The M3 performs the dual roles of everyday car and
performance car with remarkable competence. In ordinary driving it is
undemanding and comfortable, yet when the conditions are right it is
enormously entertaining and capable. It may be fractions behind more
hardcore rivals in terms of sharpness, but only the fussiest of driver
would be anything other than thrilled to own and drive it.
Costs
Running costs for the M3 will be
relatively high. The purchase price is at the higher end of the scale,
while insurance is also in the highest possible group. Fuel bills are
also likely to be high, although fuel economy has improved over the
previous version and it features a special electrical system that
reduces engine drag for efficiency improvements.
Space and Practicality
Most buyers will be happy with the
amount of space on offer in the M3, with decent passengers space in the
front and rear. The boot is also very generous, with more than enough
space for a weekend's luggage. There is also decent storage space in
the cabin, with a number of cubbies although none of them are
particularly large.
Controls and Display
The layout of the M3's cabin is exemplary,
with a clear, crisp design which is easy to understand and use. The
iDrive system which operates many of the more minor functions of the
car is good to use with some practice, and reduces the amount of visual
clutter on the dashboard.
Quad exhausts are a signature M car feature
Comfort
For a car as capable as this, comfort is highly impressive, with low
levels of wind and road noise. The engine also remains quiet when
cruising, only really increasing in volume when pressing on. The seats
are also very comfortable, with a wide range of adjustment for those in
the front.
Security
A standard fit approved alarm and
immobiliser system should help to keep the M3 in the custody of its
rightful owners, despite its highly desirable nature.
Safety
With a wide variety of safety systems
plus the high performance nature of its brakes, tyres and suspension,
the M3 is undoubtedly a safe vehicle in which to travel. It should
offer a high level of protection in a crash but also be adept at
avoiding accidents in the first place.
Driver Appeal
The M3's chief appeal is its dual
personality, being equally at home in traffic or on the racetrack. In
ordinary driving the weight of the controls and smooth engine response
make for relaxed progress, while the strong torque output means
frequent gearshifting is not required. When conditions are suitable,
the M3 responds superbly to enthusiastic driving. The engine response
is magnificent, revving easily to its high limit and with a superb
soundtrack. The suspension is also superbly composed, dealing with
bumps and lumps easily and keeping the M3 flat and level during
cornering.
Family Appeal
The M3 is capable of performing family duties,
although the lack of a centre seat in the rear does restrict its
carrying capacity. It does have the boot space however, and it is
comfortable enough not to disturb its occupants.
Cabin changes are limited over 3 regular-Series
First Car Appeal
The M3 is too expensive and performance oriented for new drivers, and
the insurance costs will also prevent those without experience getting
cover.
Quality and image
The M3, like its stablemates, comes
across as a high quality product from every angle. The exterior design
and interior materials convey a strong sense of quality and robust
build. The M3's image is almost peerless, with a badge that is
desirable to any fan of performance cars, and the design of the latest
version simply emphasises that.
Accessibility
Access to the front seats is simple
thanks to the long doors and their wide opening. Although a coupe,
access to the rear seats is helped by tilt and electrically sliding
front seats, requiring little extra effort for back seat passengers.
Stereo and ICE
With satellite navigation and a
CD/tuner fitted as standard with MP3 compatibility, the M3 is well
specified. It also benefits from an auxiliary socket and USB
connection, which gives a wide choice of audio inputs. A digital radio
system can also be specified optionally.
Colours and Trim
The M3 is available in a wide range of
exterior and interior colours, with some more unusual shades such as
white now available. Inside the variety of leather colours help to lift
the cabin and differentiate it from lesser 3 Series models.
V8 engine is superb
Parking
Park distance control is fitted as standard on the rear of all M3
models, but the optional front and rear system with visual and audible
guidance makes parking simple.
Spare Wheel
Tyre inflation system fitted as standard.
Range information
Petrol engines: 2.0-litre (193bhp),
2.5-litre (218bhp), 3.0-litre (272bhp), 3.0-litre turbocharged
(306bhp), 4.0-litre (420bhp). Diesel engines: 2.0-litre (163bhp),
2.5-litre (197bhp), 3.0-litre (231bhp and 286bhp). All are fitted with
a six-speed manual transmission, automatic available on all models
except high output 3.0-litre diesel. Trim levels are SE and M-Sport. M3
is separate model with no engine choice.
Alternatives
Audi RS4 No coupe option but very close on performance and ability
Aston Martin Vantage Arguably better looking, bespoke feel inside and out
Porsche 911 Carrera S Ultimately more involving but less suited to daily use
Vauxhall VXR8 Superb performance matched by sharp design at a relatively bargain price
