BERLIN: BMW has given its performance hot-shots, the M3 sedan and M4 coupe and convertible, an update – tweaking price and specifications in the process.
As part of the ‘life cycle update’ of the broader 3 Series range, the M3 features new LED front and rear lights and additional chrome highlights in the interior.
M3 and M4 models also gain tyre pressure monitoring, head up display, adaptive LED headlights, Connected Drive Freedom, internet connectivity, lane change warning and Driving Assistant as standard.
Inside, the range benefits from full Merino leather trim, including the instrument panel and glove compartment. BMW Individual extended leather, and Individual instrument panel trim can also be added as a no-cost option.
The 3.0 litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine remains unchanged with 317kW of power and 550Nm of torque. M3 and M4 coupe are capable of hitting 100km/h in 4.1 seconds, with the M4 convertible taking 4.4 seconds.
The addition of Connected Drive allows for features such as real time traffic information and concierge services as well as transmitting the vehicle’s maintenance requirements to the owner’s preferred authorised BMW dealer.
Remote Services, also a part of the Connected Drive package allows remote operation of ventilation, locking and unlocking, headlight flash, and Google search with send-to-car function.
Driving Assistant bundles together approach control warning, pedestrian warning, lane departure warning, and light city braking function.
“The BMW M3 and BMW M4 are expressions of motorsport-inspired technology and innovation, and have attained iconic status. These changes will only broaden that appeal.” According to BMW Group Australia Head of Product and Market Planning, Shawn Ticehurst.
“The growth of the BMW M range has been a fantastic success story for our brand, particularly in 2015. And over the first seven months of this year, we have already surpassed our total sales result for 2014.”
Pricing for the updated range represents reductions of $16,140 with the M3 starting from $139,900. The M4 coupe is available from $149,900 with the M3 convertible coming in at $161,900.