BMW M3 Saloon
 

Munich - BMW is launching a four-door saloon version of the M3 in early 2008 and for the first time in 13 years, the car maker announced.

The new car comes with a V-8 power unit with an output of 309 kW/420 hp at 8,300 rpm and 400 Nm. Power is transferred by a six- speed manual gearbox and variable M differential.

Fitted with BMW?s EfficientDynamics programme, the car maker lists consumption at an average of 12.9 litres with C02 emissions at 295 g/km. Lower fuel economy for the power car is also achieved with weight-saving measures such as a light-alloy engine block, weighing only 202 kilogrammes, around 15 kilogrammes less than the six- cylinder engine in the previous generation M3. The crankshaft, made from complete forging, weighs only 20 kilogrammes.

In common with all new BMW models launched in 2007, the M3 Saloon features Brake Energy Regeneration. This technology uses an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recognise when the engine is on over-run and activates the alternator to charge the battery with what would previously have been wasted energy.

Like the Coup?©, the new M3 Saloon features 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels as standard, with a forged and polished 19-inch wheel available as an option. Another BMW M trait, the side gill in the front wing, has been elongated for the saloon, mirroring the design from the M5. Also carried-over from the two-door are the aerodynamically-effective door mirrors.

The price in Germany is 64,750 euros (91,200 dollars). ?© 2007 dpa - Deutsche Presse-Agentur

Source: [url=http://www.newcarnet.co.uk/BMW_preview.html?id=7298]New Car Net[/url]