BMW unveils 2014 M3 with new turbo six and lighter chassis
The 2014 BMW M3 sedan arrives with a 431hp twin-turbo straight-six, extensive weight-saving measures and a manual gearbox as standard.
BMW has officially unveiled the 2014 M3 sports saloon, introducing a new twin-turbocharged straight-six engine, extensive use of lightweight materials and a host of technical upgrades. The new M3 will make its public debut at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show in January.
New engine and performance
The heart of the new M3 is the S55 B30 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six, producing 431hp at 5500–7300rpm and 550Nm of torque from 1850–5500rpm. This marks a return to six cylinders for the M3, replacing the outgoing V8, and delivers 16hp more along with a substantial 111lb ft torque increase. BMW claims 0–62mph in 4.1 seconds with the optional seven-speed M Double-clutch Transmission (DCT) and 4.3 seconds with the standard six-speed manual. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph, rising to 174mph with the M Driver’s package.
The manual gearbox, supplied by Getrag, now features an auto-blip function for downshifts. The DCT option brings launch control and a new “Smokey Burnout” mode. Both transmissions send power to the rear wheels via an Active M Differential capable of fully variable locking for improved traction and handling.
Efficiency and emissions
BMW says the new M3 is nearly 25 percent more fuel efficient than its predecessor, quoting up to 32.0mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions as low as 194g/km. This improvement comes despite the increase in performance, owing to the new engine, weight reduction and improved aerodynamics.
Chassis, brakes and technology
Weight-saving was a key priority. The M3’s kerb weight is down by 80kg, now at 1,497kg (all fluids, 90% fuel, no driver). The new car is longer, wider and slightly higher than before, yet lighter thanks to a carbon fibre roof (a first for the four-door M3), aluminium front wings, suspension arms and magnesium oil sump. Carbon fibre also features throughout the interior and exterior. Standard wheels are 18-inch forged alloys, with 19-inch options and carbon-ceramic brakes available.
The suspension uses aluminium double-joint struts at the front and a five-link rear axle. Adaptive M suspension is optional, allowing the driver to select Comfort, Sport or Sport+ modes. The steering is electro-mechanical with variable ratios, and the M Dynamic Mode allows more slip before stability control intervenes. Tyres are 255/40 ZR18 front and 275/40 ZR18 rear, on 9J and 10J alloys respectively.
Design and equipment
Visually, the new M3 carries a more aggressive front and rear treatment than the standard 3 Series, with wider arches and unique M details. Eight exterior colours are offered, including Yas Marina Blue and Austin Yellow. The interior features M-specific seats, carbon trim and a choice of manual or DCT gear selectors. Luggage capacity is 480 litres, matching the standard saloon.
- Alpine White
- Mineral Grey Metallic
- Black Sapphire Metallic
- Sakhir Orange Metallic
- Silverstone Metallic
- Austin Yellow Metallic
- Mineral White Metallic
- Yas Marina Blue Metallic
Pricing and launch
At launch, the 2014 BMW M3 is priced at £56,175 in the UK. The car will be shown alongside the new M4 coupe at the Detroit show. For more on BMW’s 2014 line-up, see BMW reveals 2014 4 Series Coupe with new engines and tech.
