19 Oct 07
The BMW M3 four-door saloon, which makes its debut at the Tokyo show, has the same powertrain as the coupe and the same nose, featuring large air intakes to cool the engine and brakes. But it doesn't have the coupe's carbon fibre roof and the longer side vents are taken from the M5.
Although it's a heavier car than the coupe, the saloon is barely any slower, with the 414bhp V8 propelling it from zero to 62mph in 4.9 seconds, which is just 0.1 more than the coupe. Its peak power output comes at a screaming 8,300rpm, with the maximum torque of 295lb-ft arriving at 3,900rpm. Like the coupe, its top speed is limited to 155mph.
The M3 saloon comes with a brake energy regeneration system, part of the company's Efficient Dynamics programme. Despite the weight gain, the official combined fuel consumption figure is the same as the coupe's at 22.8mpg.
The saloon also keeps the coupe's 18" dark graphite alloy wheels, with 19-inchers an option, and the M Drive Manager system to oversee stability and traction control, engine mapping, power steering and optional Electronic Damper Control.
The price and on-sale date have not yet been announced. A coupe-convertible with a folding hardtop roof is expected to follow, but BMW has ruled out an M3 Touring.
Check out the rest of our Tokyo Motor Show coverage
