The new BMW M3 and M4 leak ahead of their unveiling

The new BMW M3 and BMW M4 have leaked ahead of their official unveiling. This new German duo shares a new front end as well as a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The new-generation BMW M3 saloon and its sibling, the BMW M4 Coupé, have been revealed through a series of images published ahead of their official debut. These images were posted on Reddit.

The high-quality leaks confirm that the new-generation M3 and M4 feature the same vertically oriented front grille. It is fair to say it is quite similar to that of the second-generation 4 Series from the Bavarian brand, which we recently got to see.

As is customary with the M sport division, the wheel arches set the high-performance models apart from their standard versions. Turning to the rear, the new members of the family of the world’s most powerful letter feature a prominent diffuser designed to improve aerodynamic downforce, a subtle spoiler and a sport exhaust with four outlets. Both models have also received unique wheels, contrasting roofs on the bodywork and even new bonnets with additional lines to give the cars a more aggressive look.

A highly anticipated new generation

Both the M3 saloon and the M4 Coupé are generating a great deal of anticipation among enthusiasts of the world’s most powerful letter. Both models will be powered by the brand’s 3.0-litre twin-scroll turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. In its standard version it will deliver 480 CV and 600 Nm of maximum torque. These figures are the same as those of its siblings, the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M. If drivers opt for the Competition versions, both units will produce more than 500 CV.

For the first time on an BMW M3, all-wheel drive will become an option shortly after launch, although it is believed that all forms of electrification have been ruled out. However, persistent reports suggest that the models will feature some form of electrification in the near future. This is something necessary given the growing priority of meeting the fleet’s average CO2 targets.

They will be sold with the option of a six-speed manual gearbox or an optional eight-speed automatic, but the automatic will deliver better performance figures thanks to a built-in electronic launch control system. The M3 and M4 will also benefit from the greater rigidity offered by their foundations thanks to the CLAR platform, partly made of aluminium and partly of high-strength steel. Besides offering greater performance potential, the stiffer chassis will reduce the amount of vibration transmitted to the cabin, improving overall refinement.

Inside, images show that the duo will follow in the footsteps of the BMW M5 by replacing the current information and entertainment screen at the top of the dashboard with one that is more integrated into it. The iDrive system will retain a rotary control knob, which has been praised for its ease of use in current cars. It is not yet clear whether the cars will feature active rear-wheel steering to improve agility and increase stability at high speed.