Gentleman, start your checkbooks. The 2015 BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe specs are in. And, let’s just say, things look wunderbar.
Power will once again be in line with M3 lineage. An inline six-cylinder with two mono-scroll turbochargers and direct injection will be bolted under the hood. The high-revving inline six will be capable of 430 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque at over 7,500 rmp. While it not only produces more ponies than the outgoing M3 V8, it will also achieve 25 percent better fuel economy.
Good news manual fans; despite rumors, the M3 and M4 will retain the manual gearbox option alongside the seven-speed M double clutch transmission (DCT) with launch control.
Weight is pegged at an impressively low 3,306 pounds. Designers kept curb weight low through the inclusion of several carbon fiber structures, including the drive shaft, roof, trunk (M4 only), and front strut brace. The driveshaft, for instance weighs 40 percent less than the steel unit in the fated M3 Coupe with additional stiffness, which will more efficiently pipe power to the Active M rear Differential.
Further lightness comes from a set of lightweight forged wheels as standard at all four corners, a new five-link rear axle made from forged aluminum, and aluminum suspension. All told, the M3 and M4 should sport perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
Cooling will come from an electric water pump that circulates coolant through three radiators: one for each high- and low-temperature circuits, turbocharger, and transmission. This, according to a screen capture found the Bimmer Post forum.
Official BMW unveil is scheduled for the North American Auto Show in Detroit next January. While we’re likely to learn more details between now and then, full production photos will likely be withheld until closer to the debut date. Be sure to check back for more soon.
