Now that the 2015 BMW M3 and M4 have been officially revealed, the German automaker has released full details on the next-generation of its popular sports cars. So if you’re looking for all the details on the M3 and M4, you’ve come to the right place. Here are the top 10 facts you need to know on the all-new M3 and M4.
Hardcore BMW enthusiasts are grateful that the manual transmission does exist for the new-generation M3 and M4 models and this time around, the six-speed comes with throttle blipping. The transmission features a double-plate clutch which is considered more compact than its predecessor and is 26.4 lbs lighter. To increase shifting comfort, the German automaker has given the manual transmission new carbon friction lining in its synchronizer rings. But it’s the throttle blipping that owners will look forward to helping improve the smoothness of the transmission and enhancing stability. Throttle blipping was previously only available on M3 models with a M-DCT.
Though the interior will be familiar to previous M3 owners, BMW has stepped up the level of sportiness with improved ergonomics and a clear driver focus. Inside, the traditional BMW M equipment of M door sill finishers, M driver’s footrest, M gearshift lever, M-design circular instruments with white graphics, M leather steering wheel with chrome trim, color contrast stitching and electroplated-look shift paddles on M-DCT-equipped models. As for seating, the BMW M sports seats can be had with comfort-enhancing features such as electric adjustment and heating. And for the first time, the BMW M logo on the seat backrests add a new and exclusive highlight.
For the first time in the model’s storied history, the M3 sedan will be equipped with a carbon fiber roof; a feature that has been confined to the coupe variant up until now. In the case of the M3 sedan, the carbon fiber roof help sheds 11 lbs off the body while the M4 coupe loses 13 lbs. In addition, the roof lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity helping improve driving dynamics. The dark shade of the roof also gives both models a lower-slung and more compact appearance.
When equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission, both the M3 and M4 can accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.1 seconds. With the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT), both vehicles are capable of hitting 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. The 2015 M3 and M4 are electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph.
Though it ins’t really a feature, the new M Laptimer app is the first companion for M3 and M4 owners. The app can record data from BMW Apps-equipped vehicles and takes advantage of the on-board network and GPS receiver to gather data. M3 and M4 owners will be able to create comparative track sessions through the app, providing essential performance information to the drivers. The app features highly visual depictions of throttle, speed, brake input, engine RPM, fuel level and g-force.
Weight savings were a main priority for BMW in developing the new M3 and M4 and it shows. The M4 Coupe has a DIN curb weight of 3,300 lbs which is around 176 lbs lighter than a comparably equipped previous model. Plenty of lightweight materials are found throughout both vehicles such as carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) and aluminum for a number of chassis and body components.
To ensure both the M3 and M4 were track ready, BMW worked closely with BMW Motorsport’s professional race drivers during the development phase on both models. DTM drivers Bruno Spengler and Timo Glock took part in the extensive testing and setup work carried out at the world-famous Nürburgring. With engineers working closely with drivers, the result are two high-performance sports cars balanced for the road, but ready to take on the track.
Numerous aerodynamic enhancements were made in all areas of the bodies for the M3 and M4. The goal of the engineers was “to channel the air around the car to create the best possible platform for dynamic excellence.” Not only that, but cooling was enhanced for the engine, powertrain and brakes, even when operating under heavy loads on the track. Reducing lift by an equal degree at the front and rear axle is the defined Gurney spoiler on the rear of the M3 sedan and the integrated spoiler lip on the M4 coupe. “The way in which we channel the inflowing air through the engine oil cooler creates a Venturi effect, which reduces front axle lift and, in so doing, improves the steering,” explained BMW development boss Albert Biermann.
Using an electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential, the Active M Differential optimizes traction and directional stability. The control unit links up with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system that takes into account the position of the accelerator pedal, the rotational speed of the wheels and the car’s yaw rate. In addition, the M Dynamic Mode, which is a sub function of the DSC system, allows greater wheel slip and easier drifting.
Finally, there’s the all-new, 3.0-liter inline-six engine featuring BMW’s M TwinPower Turbo technology. Boasting 425 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, the powerplant is also 22 lbs lighter than the V8 it’s replacing. Peak horsepower is available from 5,500 – 7,300 rpm while peak torque comes in at an early 1,850 rpm and lasts until 5,500 rpm. According to BMW, the engine also achieves a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of nearly 25 percent. The new engine has a redline of 7,600 rpm, making it unusually high-revving for a turbocharged engine helping combine the best of both worlds.