JUST A FEW REASONS WHY THIS WILL BE THE BEST M3 EVER
The BMW M3 will always be regarded as the ultimate driving machine amongst auto enthusiasts. And after 31 years of M3, BMW is certainly moving the goal posts with the next incarnation. While the new 3-series (G20) will be revealed next year, the M3 will likely only be released in 2020. But with test mules being spotted, new details are starting to emerge about the next-generation model.
According to reports, the 6th-generation M3 will be equipped with a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine known as the S58B30, run through an 8-speed automatic. It’s said that the motor will be equipped with the water-injection system from the M4 GTS and outputs should match that off the M4 GTS – 368kw and 600nm – but remember, there will still be the Competition Pack, CS, and probably a CSL variant too, so expect this to be the power output of the base M3. This makes it more powerful than the 331kw Audi RS5, and puts it roughly on par with the 375kw Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde and 375kw Mercedes-AMG C63 S.
There is talk that BMW will add an xDrive all-wheel drive system into the mix, much like they did with the new M5 for optimal traction. And while this is standard on the M5, it’s expected to be an option on the M3. But the big news is that this will be the first “eco” M3 as it will use a 48-volt mild hybrid system and electrically spooled turbochargers. BMW M engineers are also apparently aiming to achieve a near perfect 50:50 weight distribution, and improve torsional rigidity through use of aluminium and other composites. Other high-tech features are said to include including adaptive dampers, variable-rate and variable-effort electrically-assisted steering, a locking differential, and a brake-by-wire system with four individual electric actuators.
The new 3-series sedan will be revealed towards the end of the year, while the 4-series coupe and 4-series convertible (which switches from the bulky retractable hardtop to a power-operated fabric top) are scheduled for 2020, along with the M4 variant. The Gran Coupe however, follows a different route and will be transformed into an electric vehicle.
FAQ
Q: What does the new BMW M3 cost in South Africa?
The new BMW M3 is expected to start around R1,450,000 when it launches in 2020, with the Competition Pack variant likely pushing past R1,600,000 and special editions like the CS potentially hitting R2,000,000 or more.
Q: How much power does the new BMW M3 have?
The base model will pump out 368kW and 600Nm from its twin-turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder S58B30 engine, matching the current M4 GTS and putting it right in the fight with the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde.
Q: Will the new BMW M3 have all-wheel drive?
BMW will offer xDrive all-wheel drive as an option on the new M3, similar to what they did with the M5, giving you the choice between traditional rear-wheel drive thrills or maximum traction when you need it.
Q: Is the new BMW M3 worth buying over the Mercedes-AMG C63 S?
The new M3 looks set to be the most complete package yet with its 368kW output, optional AWD, 48-volt mild hybrid system, and BMW's legendary chassis dynamics, making it a stronger all-round performer than the C63 S for South African conditions.
Q: When will the new BMW M3 be available in South Africa?
BMW M3 deliveries are expected to start in South Africa during 2020, roughly a year after the standard 3 Series G20 launches, giving BMW time to perfect what could be the best M3 ever built.
Should You Buy It?
Absolutely yes, if you can wait and have the R1,450,000 starting price. The new BMW M3 is shaping up to be the most technologically advanced and powerful M3 ever, combining 368kW of fury with modern tech like mild hybrid assistance and optional all-wheel drive. For serious driving enthusiasts in South Africa, this will be the ultimate sports sedan under R1,500,000, offering more drama than the clinical Mercedes-AMG C63 S and better build quality than the temperamental Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde. The best high-performance sports sedan under R2,000,000 in SA will likely be this new M3, especially in Competition Pack specification.
