BMW M3 AND M4 BREAK COVER

BMW has unveiled its new M 3 and M 4 performance models.

On sale in the UK from early 2021 exclusively in Competition spec, the saloon and coupe models both pack the same drivetrain, with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight six offering 503bhp and 469lb ft. Nought to 62mph takes just 3.9 seconds and top speed is limited to 155mph for both but an optional M Pro pack raises that to 180mph.

At launch both cars will be rear-wheel drive but in summer 2021 four-wheel- drive variants will join the line-up for the first time.

All versions will come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, adaptive dampers and six-piston brake calipers on the front which, for the first time can be painted red or black as well as the traditional blue of M cars.

They also come with M Drive Professional – a data logging system that lets owners monitor their on-track driving to improve lap times.

To mark the latest M3 and M4 out from their lesser stablemates both cars get a striking new vertical grille, whose shape is echoed by indentations in the bonnet and both also get unique front and rear bumpers, widened wings and sills, a boot spoiler and multichannel diffuser.

Four exclusive paint finishes and an optional M Carbon exterior pack help make the differences even more obvious while inside, sports seats, a sports steering wheel and high-gloss carbon fibre trim are standard.

On sale from next March, the M 3 Competition will cost from £74,755, while the M4 Competition will start at £76,055.