|
|
By: Jeffrey RossAutotropolis.com There was a period of time where BMW’s high performance M-series of cars was the only option for a driver looking for a luxurious car with stellar performance and handling all wrapped in an attractive package. Times have changed.
With tough competition coming from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac and now Lexus, BMW engineers had a tough task for designing the next generation of their iconic M3.
After months of seeing the M3 prance around Europe in camouflage, automotive enthusiasts got their first glimpse at the upcoming M3 at the Geneva Auto Show. The car shown Tuesday was labeled a concept, but when the 2008 BMW M3 hits the streets, expect the look to be very similar.
The most noticeable difference in the M3 is the large bulge in the hood which indicates what lurks beneath. For the first time, a V8 powers the M3 replacing the inline six cylinder used in its predecessors. Based off the M6’s powerful V10, the 2008 M3 will pump out horsepower equaled to 420 ponies.
Much like the bigger M6 coupe, the M3’s carbon fiber roof adds a stylish look while shaving precious pounds. With its lower stance and flared fenders, there is no doubt the M3 will be a menacing sports coupe. Other visual cues that differentiate the M3 from other 3-series cars include the revised front air dam with larger air intakes, the M-series trademark vender vents and side skirts that accentuate the flared fenders. The rear of the M3 is finished off with a decklid spoiler and a sportier rear fascia that houses a quartet of exhaust outlets.
Inside of the concept M3, the cabin is adorned by carbon fiber trim, embroidered head rests with the M-series logo and leather-wrapped steering wheel highlighted with red and blue stitching. No doubt the leather seats up front will offer increased lateral support.
Overall, the M3 concept is, in a word, stunning. But it needed to be. With all new competition coming in the form of the Audi RS4, Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG, Cadillac CTS-V and Lexus IS-F, BMW has pulled out all the stops on the 2008 M3, which should equate to an incredibly fast and fun-to-drive machine.
Anonymous comments are disabled
|
|
|