A new chapter in BMW’s history is about to be written. Even though most major publications already had a go aboard the latest M cars from Bavaria, the final verdict will be given by the actual customers and their feedback to the new M3 and M4 models.
If there was one thing everyone agreed on, it was that the sound of the new cars could’ve been better and that the razor sharp response of the naturally aspirated engine on the previous model is gone. However, those that pointed these 2 things out were in the minority.
Here we have the Auto Express report, that says basically the same thing about the exhaust and the noise it makes but that’s about it. That’s basically their only reproach.
As for the engine, according to the review, there’s no reason to worry about turbo lag, whatsoever. The S55 3-liter, 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine under the bonnet makes 431 HP and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque thanks to two identical Mitsubishi turbochargers that aren’t even trying too hard, with boost rated at 18 psi.
Actually, the twin-turbocharged S55 spools up quicker than the single-turbo N55 engine that we all know from the 435i model. However, that added performance does make the former engine a bit heavier than the latter, by 40 lbs (18 kg).
The acceleration is really linear, up to the higher revs or even the redline, somewhere at 7,600 RPM which is a lot even for some naturally aspirated engines, not to mention the turbocharged ones.
The added torque will prove most useful around town, making the new model more than easy to drive on your daily commutes, while also being comfortable and 25% more economical. Not that such a thing would pose a problem for a real owner that can afford this $64,200 car.
On the track, the steering is just right, a bit too heavy in Sport+ mode but offering plenty of feedback. It’s also probably why the car feels so light, nimble and quirky all the time, both on and off a proper circuit.
As it turns out, if we’re to ask Auto Express, BMW nailed a home run with the new M3 and M4. The cars feel like an evolution from their predecessors in every aspect. Sure, some things could’ve been better but let’s wait and see what the future holds. Maybe tuner will have a say in all this exhaust ordeal.
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