The next-generation BMW M3 sedan has been snapped by CarAdvice’s spy photographers while traversing snow-covered roads while undergoing winter testing.
Seen for the first time in white paint rather than the black of previous prototypes, the latest BMW M3 test car’s boot spoiler and bigger carbon ceramic brakes show development of the new sports sedan is continuing to progress. The larger stoppers feature six-piston calipers at the front, compared with the four-piston calipers seen on earlier F80 M3 prototypes.
Already confirmed to be powered by a turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine rather than the current car’s naturally aspirated V8, BMW is yet to officially announce how many turbos will be incorporated in the unit. While a twin-turbo set-up has been suggested in the past, the use of three turbochargers, as per the 3.0-litre 50d diesel engine in the BMW X5 and X6 M Performance models, has also been rumoured for the new four-door hero model.
BMW Australia’s Piers Scott told CarAdvice the new M3 sedan and coupe would launch together for the first time in around 18 months’ time.
“The timing for those two cars is expected to be mid-year 2014,” Scott confirmed.
While the BMW M3 sedan will keep the long-standing moniker going, the two-door coupe variant is almost guaranteed to wear an M4 badge as per the German manufacturer’s latest naming adjustment for the model range.
