BMW M Series M3

M Series M3 Review

BMW is an iconic luxury car maker head-quartered in Germany, who has a large fleet of models in India. Recently it also added two new variants in its popular M series. Among those two, BMW M Series M3 Sedan is the four door variant, which is powered by a 3.0-litre petrol engine under the hood. The manufacturer claims that the vehicle can break the 100 Kmph speed mark in breathtaking 4.1 seconds, which is impressive. One of the most important aspect of this vehicle is its astounding external appearance owing to its sleek body structure, which is highlighted by aggressive cosmetics. Its roof along with B pillars and its alloy wheels have black accents, which further emphasizes its sporty stance. This highly efficient sedan has a slew of advanced features including BMW head-up display with 'M-Specific' views for gear indicator, engine revolution and shift light. At the same time, it is also blessed with features like a sophisticated infotainment system including an iDrive touch controller and park distance control function. This luxury sedan looks compact from its outside, there is an ample space available inside that can provide seating to at least five occupants. There is an extensive use of leather and metallic accents given inside the cabin that further adds to its majestic stance. Currently, it is positioned against the likes of Audi S4 and Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG in the Indian automobile market.

Exteriors:

The external appearance of this sedan is simply breathtaking, thanks to its aerodynamic body structure with flawless design. Unlike any other sedan, it has an intimidating front facade owing to its extremely sleek headlight cluster. It is powered by bi-xenon lamps along with four LED DRL rings. In the center, it has a kidney bean shaped radiator grille that has vertically positioned slats wherein, its frame is garnished in chrome. The front bumper has a unique structure featuring three massive air intake sections that provides better air intake for engine cooling. Its side profile looks very sleek but, it has massive fenders featuring stylish alloy wheels gives it a breathtaking look. Its door panels along with the B pillars are done up with high gloss black, wherein the wing mirrors and door handles are painted in body color. This sedan also has a breathtaking rear profile, which is sportier than its side and front facade. The rear bumper has an expressive structure featuring a pair of reflectors for additional protection. Furthermore, it also has four exhaust pipes that are garnished with chrome accents. This luxury sedan has a total length of 4671mm along with an impressive width of 1877mm. Its total height stands at 1430mm and the wheelbase at 2812mm.

Interiors:

Coming to the interiors, this luxury sedan has a mesmerizing internal cabin that is done up with extensive use of leather and high-gloss black inserts. The manufacturer has used high quality upholstery for covering the seats, which are made using the combination of leather and fabric. Its elegance is further highlighted by the metallic accents given on its dashboard, door panels and instrument cluster. All the seats inside are ergonomically designed, wherein its front seats have side bolsters along with head restraints. At the same time, they also have electrical adjustment facility along with memory function, which further adds to the traveling comfort. The steering wheel has a conventional three spoke design and it is mounted with all the multi-functional switches related to the audio, calls and cruise control function. Just behind this, there is an attractive instrument cluster that has a few analogue gauges along with a multi-functional screen, which displays all the essential information. The most attractive aspect of the cabin is the illuminated control switches located on the dashboard, which amplifies the cabin.

Engine and Performance:

This BMW M Series M3 Sedan is powered by an advanced 3.0-litre petrol engine that has high pressure fuel injection technology. It comprises of six cylinders and 24-valves based on high pressure direct fuel injection technology. This power plant has the ability to churn out a peak power of 431bhp in between 5500 to 7300rpm that results in a hammering torque output of 550Nm in the range of 1850 to 5500rpm. The automaker has mated this power plant to an advanced M Double Clutch transmission gearbox featuring drivelogic, which delivers torque output to the rear wheels. This motor also helps the vehicle to reach a top speed of 250 Kmph, which is rather impressive.

Braking and Handling:

All its four wheels have been mated with a sturdy set of 'M' compound disc brakes that are further loaded with body colored brake calipers. This braking mechanism gets the assistance from the latest generation anti lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution along with cornering brake control function. On the other hand, it is also blessed with adaptive M suspension system that helps the vehicle to adapt itself according to the road condition and keeps it agile.

Comfort Features:

This luxury sedan has all the advanced aspects, which ensures high level of comfort to the occupants inside. It has a list of features including velour floor mats, interior mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function, ambient lighting system and a multi-functional steering wheel featuring gearshift paddles. In addition to these, it also has smokers package, electrically adjustable front seats with lumbar support, roller sunblinds for rear window and 'M' carbon roof. The manufacturer has also incorporated several BMW ConnectDrive aspects including an iDrive touch controller, a touchscreen display, a DVD player and an integrated hard drive for maps. Furthermore, it also provides visual parking aid with the help of parking camera.

Safety Features:

As far as safety aspects are concerned, this trim gets a set of sophisticated protective aspects, which safeguards all the occupants inside. It has a list of features including eight airbags, anti lock braking system with brake assist function, cornering brake control function and a dynamic stability control including 'M' dynamic mode. In addition to these, it also has features like warning triangle with first aid kit, side impact protection beams, child proof lock and an electronic engine immobilizer.

Pros:

1. Engine power and performance is remarkable.

2. Breathtaking external and internal design.

Cons:

1. There is no Harman Kardon surround sound system.

2. M lightweight alloy wheels can be given as standard.