2021 BMW M3 & M4 – New Looks; but Same Quality Engineering

There’s been quite a stir in automotive circles and even the wider media over certain design decisions taken by BMW for their new M3 and M4 models. Their reveal has come and gone, but they won’t go properly on sale until early 2021, probably around March. Controversies aside, there is a huge buzz about the updating of these top-of-the-line BMWs, and fans couldn’t be more excited.

These new M-series cars do share quite a lot of the same fantastic engineering and hardware points, but let’s first have a quick look at each and what makes them unique.

2021 BMW M3 – Quick Overview

The M3 is a sedan model that will first come as either the M3 Sedan or M3 Competition Sedan variants, with an xDrive model expected later in 2021. You can already configure yours in a range of 14 colours and a host of fantastic standard features. There is already some comment that the M3 has come somewhat closer to the M4 in its styling, though the sedan design continues to demand at least some difference. It’s certainly more “aggressive” than it’s 3-Series counterpart, but in this way, it better exemplifies the racing spirit for which M models are known.

2021 BMW M4 – Quick Overview

The M4 is a coupé model also first coming as either M4 Coupé or M3 Competition Coupé. As with the M3, an xDrive model is expected later in 2021. The sloping rear roof of this irresistible coupé design is sure to turn heads wherever you go. That’s coupled with the powerful and muscular front-end design, thus perfectly linking power with aerodynamic athleticism.

Where’s the Controversy?

In both the M3 and M4 models, there has been some debate about the new-look enlarged kidney front grille. The “kidney” design is part of BMW’s identity, but these are a big departure from previous designs to which many are accustomed. It has created an entirely new design for the front bumper. This poses problems for those who might have been planning to personalize or alter their M3 or M4 bumper, since it will take some time for the aftermarket to catch up. Those more in the know, however, will also realize that this “new” design in fact also plays an homage to the racetrack legend models such as the BMW 328.

The Rest is Pure Magnificence

Besides the major design change at the front end, there’s little causing doubt in the minds of any fans. These new M3 and M4 models are simply divine. For example, it’s hard to resist either when they’re built with the BMW M S58 3.0L TwinPower 6-cylinder inline engine delivering up to 510hp and 479lb-fit on the Competition models. Even the standard models will generate 473hp and 406lb-ft of torque. This gives you smooth and satisfying acceleration that will always embody the racetrack spirit that’s an inseparable part of the M models.

BMW 2021 M3 Cockpit

BMW 2021 M4 Cockpit

In other good news, it has been confirmed that both the M3 and M4 will have options of at least 6-speed manual transmissions for those who want to really experience and appreciate the smooth seamless shifting capabilities of these new BMWs. An 8-speed Steptronic Sports transmission is also available with drive mode selector. The standard model will get from 0 to 60mph in just 4.1 seconds, with the Competition models dropping that to an eye-watering 3.8 seconds.

On the inside of the cars, expect M branding and badging to be prevalent and noticeable. You can also sense the racing spirit from the interior build. For example, the steering wheel is thicker and easier to grip, and the sports seats have very impressive lateral support for when you’re taking tight corners at speed. The wheel also features what BMW calls its Variable Sport Steering with Servotronic. This allows you to perform even tricky steering maneuvers with little effort. This comes in handy on smaller, tighter roads and when parking up.

As you drive, the Adaptive M suspension, provides a high level of rigidity and precision in the feedback, adjusting itself automatically to suit driving conditions. If you ever imagined to yourself what the perfect level of control on a performance sedan or coupé might be, then the M3 and M4 will be very close.

Coming in Early 2021 to Change Your Driving Life

The 2021 BMW M3 and M4 are set to enhance your driving life in every way. For the amount of performance and hardware you receive, the starting price of each model is actually fairly reasonable. Expect the M3 to start from around AU$100,600, and the M4 from AU$103,300. It’s a brave new world out there. The M3 and M4 will make it just that much more fun.