Some cars need little in the way of an introduction. The BMW M3 saloon is one such car. This is the fifth iteration of famous M branded smaller saloon and it features forced induction in the form of a twin turbocharger. The high-revving, 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology has been developed to produce a maximum output of 431hp. Peak torque of 550Nm is available across a very wide rev range starting at just 1,850rpm, and exceeds the figure recorded by the outgoing BMW M3 by roughly 40 per cent. In spite of this, the new engine also achieves a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of around 25 per cent over the old car.
BMW M engineers have paid particular attention to the car’s aerodynamic performance, and incorporated the latest Active M Differential amongst numerous other technical highlights. During the development process the engineers worked closely with BMW Motorsport’s professional racing drivers, with extensive testing and set-up work carried out on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit.
Albert Biermann, Head of Development at BMW M GmbH, said: “The way in which we channel the inflowing air through the engine oil cooler creates a venturi efect, which reduces front axle lift and, in so doing, improves the steering.”
Whether you want to go old school with a manual or specify the latest seven speed M double clutch transmission is entirely up to you. Whatever you choose, the BMW M3 saloon is bound to bring fun, speed and ability to any journey. Oh and it has usable rear seats, a reasonably sized boot and a proven reliability record. What’s not to like? This is why the BMW M3 saloon 2014 is the Car Articles Something For The Weekend car of January 2014.
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