German Car Zone

Eight into four

BMW's M3 wears a more sensible suit in saloon guise, but it's no less fun for it.


Of all the BMW M3 models, the saloon should be the most discreet. Or so we thought; the heavily blistered wheelarches filled with optional 19-inch alloy wheels, sculpted bonnet and four giveaway tailpipes ensure that even the four-door M3 doesn't go unnoticed by those who know. It's certainly a bit less showy than its coupé relative, the four-door doing without the contrasting black carbon weave roof panel that BMW's M people claim reduces the centre of gravity on the two-door. If anything the M3's bulging addenda suit the four-door's shape better, the slightly taller, less lithe profile working well with the M3's necessary muscular detailing.

More assertive than aggressive it's certainly a tough looking car, the M revisions giving the saloon shape a real shot of athleticism. After the beautifully detailed exterior the interior is a bit disappointing; sure, there's some M badging, but overly chunky steering wheel and heavily bolstered seats aside there's little to really distinguish it from its much cheaper brethren. Forget all that though and wait for the variable-limit rev counter to allow full revs once the V8 engine is warmed up and you'll forgive it the M3 its regular 3 Series interior.



Full Article: The Car Enthusiast - Reviews: BMW M3 Saloon



M