The Almost Full Monty: BMW M3 Concept Debuts

Ever since the new-generation BMW 3 Series debuted in 2005, we’ve been waiting for the top-of-the-line, high-performance M3 version. Today in Switzerland, BMW made us wait a little longer, but gave us a good hint at the next M3 with the M3 Concept. BMW isn’t one of those companies that offers many concepts, and usually they’re just thinly disguised versions of the final product.

That means you can expect the real deal to look a lot like the photos here. We’d guess that the hump on the hood might go, but the side inlets, body panels and 19-inch wheels should stay put. The roof is made of carbon fiber, like the M6, and the hood is aluminum. Both materials help save weight. Oh, the power? It’s a V-8, based on the V-10 in the M5, and should produce more than 400 hp, and yes, it’s rear-wheel drive. There’s a rumor that an M3 convertible and sedan will also become available. A full photo gallery of the coupe concept is below.

Comments

Beautiful, striking, stunning.

More importantly, how much this thing costs? Any estimates?

But I guess with the same amount of money, I can get a STI and tune it with the leftovers.

Suddenly the M coupe doesn't seem so appealing.

J, You may be able to buy two STIs for what this costs. The price should be about the same as an Audi RS4—over $60k. Obviously they're not trying to compete with the STI.

I like it but I can't believe that anyone thinks the bulge in the hood looks good.

I think it'll be below $60 but yes above $50. And as much as I enjoy a ride in an STI it simply doesn't compare. the current M3 is just a joy on the track.

and cars with over 400 hp usually cost over $40K and the $40K is the GT500. the low end on that scale.

The BMW has all the comfort, style, features and technology you would expect from a luxury executive saloon, and also the character of smaller sports cars, such as speed, high performance parts of AEM, power and handling, which makes it a benchmark for the rest of the industry.

Hm...maybe I was comparing it with the wrong thing, then how about loading up a G35 coupe with the money and compare with the M3? This should put up a better fight, right?

The M series will start around 80k. This is supposed to compete against Mercedes E, Infiniti M, & Acura RL for sporty luxury sedans.

"Nameless",

I hope you were referring the M5, not the "M3" that we are talking about here, while making that 80K comment. :)

does anyone know (or have an educated time-frame) when the "new" M3 and M3 convetible will be available to purchase in the US. thanks.

BMW isn't saying but we'd bet the real thing will be at the Frankfurt auto show in the fall. US release that following winter would be my guess. Sedan and convertible versions could either be that same time or the following model year. Educated guesses here.

Oh and we're still saying prices around $55K. That's a good "guess" not $80 no.

also, was wondering if there is any intelligence on whether the convertible is going to go with and edschna hard top (like the new 335iC) or a soft top?

anyone know ehether the m3 convertible will be offered with the zf engineered transmission? thanks agian

also, was wondering if there is any intelligence on whether the convertible is going to go with and edschna hard top (like the new 335iC) or a soft top?

anyone know ehether the m3 convertible will be offered with the zf engineered transmission? thanks agian

i'll take the old one :)

Really dissapointed with the new design. I am just going to keep my old BMW 2006. The new M3 looks the same as the 3 series 2008...?? i liked the old M3 a lot better, wish BMW could switch the engines on the old one? Please tell me BMW will be changin the design for the USA release.......the only thing i liked was the engine upgrade.....BMW should have done this darn thing a lot time ago..... Lots of my friends were dissapointed in the new design. Doesn't get much attention as the old M3 2006.......

How could anyone be disappointed when the car is getting a V8? Awesome!

Beware of United Auto BMW dealerships, as thay dont like to disclose history of cars that have been Demo's, I found out a month after buying a 550i that it was a Demo, as that would explain some of the scratch, and damage that I thought was due to sitting on the lot, Beware of San Diego BMW...

Ok every 1 is TalkinG all abouT The Look Personally I'm dissapoinTed in The hp Come On Now The Old BMW M3 had Way More Hp over The 3 series now iT only has a lil hp over and plus BMW is suppose 2 B pasT Audi how does iT Have The same hp as an RS4 that's JusT noT riGhT they Need 2 up The Hp PLEASE!!!! Gosh

I currently own a Red and Black convertable M3 and I am totally let down by the plainness of the new BMW M3 I expected more flair. The motor is great the car is great for a NORMAL 3Series coupe but for the M3! NO i would never trade my current 2006 model for this new one. NEVER. Come on BMW wheres the flair you put in the old model?!?!?!

LOL this car @ 80k? 60k? EVEN 50K ??? LOL WOW...this killer is gonna be AT LEAST 100K to 115K with extra feutrews... n that buldge n the hood makes me wanna rape this more

LOL this car @ 80k? 60k? EVEN 50K ??? LOL WOW...this killer is gonna be AT LEAST 100K to 115K with extra feutrews... n that buldge n the hood makes me wanna rape this more

LOL this car @ 80k? 60k? EVEN 50K ??? LOL WOW...this killer is gonna be AT LEAST 100K to 115K with extra feutrews... n that buldge n the hood makes me wanna rape this more