Bmw M3

Bmw unveiled today the 2011 M3 which combines its outstanding driving performance figures with further reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. The new M3 carries the same 4.0 litre V8 engine capable to deliver 309 kW/420 bhp but comes with a big surprise for all of its fans: the car feature now the Auto Start Stop Function which helps the drive avoid idling phases when stopping at junctions or in congested traffic. The engine is switched off when the vehicle comes to a halt and as soon as the driver wants to continue driving, this is re-activated without any delay.

The Auto Start Stop Function is used both in vehicles with standard 6-speed manual transmission and in conjunction with the M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic. This means that, besides the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the BMW ActiveHybrid 7, the M3 is the first model to use this efficiency-enhancing measure in combination with an automated manual transmission.

With this new Auto Start Stop Function the efficiency is increased by 8 per cent of 24 grams of CO2 per kilometre, depending on the model and transmission type. For example, the BMW M3 Coupé with 7-speed M dual clutch transmission and Drivelogic powered by a V8 high-revving engine with 309 kW/420 bhp now achieves an average fuel consumption on the EU test cycle of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres (6-speed manual transmission: 12.4 litres).

Regarding other changes, the new model features modified lights with glass covers in a homogeneous red colour with two harmoniously illuminating light banks fed by LED units.Also new for this year is the M3 Competition package, available for both the Coupe and the Sedan. This new pack includes a lowered suspension by 10 mm and light wheels in the size 9 x 19 inches at the front and Y-spoke design at the rear. Also, the control of the electronic damper adjustment function EDC including a Sport mode specially developed for the Competition Package has been precisely adjusted to the chassis modifications by means of map-based control and the driving stability control function DSC. Other accessories include a rear spoiler and front apron flaps in carbon.