E46 model BMW M3 Coupe, which will go on sale in Australia in the second half of this year priced at $136,500.
Apart from its 3246cc straight six engine, which produces a benchmark 252kW at 7900rpm with the aid of a new low-friction cylinder head, M double VANOS and a new dual exhaust system with four exhaust outlets, the major technical feature of Australian models is the new SMG II Sequential M Gearbox now fitted as standard.
Offering a true F1 gearchanging experience in a road car, SMG II gives the M3 driver the choice of 11 separate shift programmes - six in the Sequential Manual mode and five in the Automatic mode.
The major innovation is in the 'Sequential' mode, where the M3 driver can select the speed of the gearchange in six stages from the smooth S1 'Comfort' mode to the racing change S6 'Competition' mode, where changes take just 0.08 second.
For motorsport enthusiasts, there is also a special 'Racing Start Assist' programme which allows the driver to 'launch' the car with maximum traction and acceleration through its interaction with the new variable M differential lock, DSC III with ASC + T and CBC traction and stability control systems, which are also standard features of Australian M3 specification.
The result is 0 -100km/h in 5.2 seconds and 0-1000m in just 24.2 seconds, on the way to an electronically governed top speed of 250km/h.
Those preferring a traditional gearchange can specify a six speed manual gearbox and clutch pedal as a no-cost option.
Braking is equally impressive, with the M3 featuring new compound brakes, incorporating composite brake discs, housed within standard 18 inch diameter M Double Spoke 67 styling alloy wheels fitted with 225/45 ZR18 front and 255/40 ZR18 rear tyres respectively.
Nineteen-inch Double spoke wheels with 225/40 front and 255/35 rear tyres are optionally available for $2950.
Xenon lights with a headlamp washer system and rain sensor, fog lamps, rear Park Distance Control (PDC) and a comprehensive alarm system, with remote central locking and anti-theft, complete the new model’s major technical specification.
Inside, the new M3 is even more comprehensively equipped than its E36 predecessor, with eight separate head and side airbags protecting front and rear passengers.
The upholstery throughout is a combination of M Texture Alcantara and Nappa leather, with the M front sport seats featuring electric adjustment with memory.
An M leather multifunction sports steering wheel, an on-board monitor with TV and on-board computer, car telephone preparation and a 10-speaker Hi Fi system incorporating a six CD changer, are also included in the M3's specification.
For owners wanting to tailor their M3 to personal requirements, the optional equipment list has been further widened on the latest M3.
An electric sliding/tilting glass sunroof, special full Nappa leather upholstery, seat heating, the pioneering BMW Navigation System and an integrated BMW Voice Recognition system, are amongst additional features available.
The new Ms comes with a choice of four standard and a further five optional metallic colours.
