The new BMW M3 Saloon
by EVANDER KLUM
BMW, the independent German automobile and motorcycle manufacturer, has recently announced the details of a new version of the M3 Saloon, its high-performance range in a 4-door body-shell.
Thirteen years have passed since the original M3 Saloon was launched. There were four generations of M3 built over the time. But this only the second time that an M3 Saloon will be offered, boasting power of up to 420 hp at 8,300 rpm with 400 Nm of torque at 3,900 rpm, which the latest M3 Coupe matches in performance.
The new M3 Saloon is equipped with a powerful 3,999 cc V8 engine with 8,400 rpm and 85 per cent of torque available over an engine range of 6,500 rpm. It has six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential that puts 100 per cent available power to the wheel, while maintaining economy at 22.8 mpg on combined cycle. The vehicle could run from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds (0.1 second slower than the Coupe) with a top speed of 155 mph.
Like any other 2007 BMW models, the new M3 Saloon is as well featured with Brake Energy Regeneration. This technology makes use of an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery, essential to determine whether the engine is on over-run; whereas if yes, the alternator is activated to charge the battery with what has been wasted energy.
The new M3 Saloon also features BMW��s EfficientDynamics programme, which is a lightweight technology with high-strength material, but without carbon-fibre roof panel like in the Coupe. The new V8 powerplant weighs about 202 kgs �C built by using a light-alloy block manufactured along with F1 engines at BMW��s foundry at Landshut, Germany. With such weight, the engine is 15 kgs lighter than the six-cylinder engine equipped in the previous M3.
The new BMW Saloon is also equipped with an M Drive Manager, which organizes a couple of personalized functions of the car. Optional features include Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC traction control settings and three specific engine control maps, together with the response rate of the Servotronic power steering that is controlled by one button found on the steering wheel.
The new M3 Saloon is said to be closely similar with the standard 3 Series Saloon. However, the bodyshell parts are actually different. And, same features from the Coupe are those in the front end, which includes lowered, sportier headlamp and power dome in the bonnet with front fog lamps dropped and three large air ducts in the front lower valance to facilitate a high volume of air flow.
In addition, the new M3 Saloon was made well-equipped with standard 18-inch Dark Graphite double-spoke light-allow wheels, like the Coupe. Optional is a forged and polished 19-inch wheel. The side gill in front wing of the M series was made elongated for the new Saloon version, mirroring the design from the M5. And, aerodynamically-effective door mirrors are carried over from the two-door.
On the rear, BMW emphasized M��s trademark twin double exhaust pipes that protrude from beneath the valance, while the bootlid features a discreet lip spoiler.
There has been no announcement regarding the launch date and price yet. But, you may check BMW 524td parts online for the meantime.
