The New BMW M3

On more than one occasion, I’ve considered buying a new M3 Touring as my daily driver, but something has stopped me.

But BMW says the updated M3 Competition Saloon and Touring with M xDrive blend race-car dynamics with everyday usability.

Both models now boast a 20 hp increase, delivering an even more mind-bending 530 hp from their six-cylinder in-line engines.

Enhanced features include striking new LED headlights, upgraded interior trims, and the latest BMW Operating System 8.5 for an advanced digital experience, make it an even better day-to-day proposition.

With a 0-62 mph time of 3.5 seconds for the Saloon and 3.6 seconds for the Touring, it’s a definite potential licence looser if you're not careful.

The intelligent all-wheel-drive system and adaptive M suspension ensure precise handling, which is essential given the state of UK roads, avoiding potholes and staying connected to the tarmac during the never-ending rain.

These updated M3 models balance luxury and performance with a starting price of £82,420 for the Saloon and £84,700 for the Touring, which seem good value, but will they depreciate too fast? 

The M3 has competition from in-house with the M340i and Alpina’s B3, but maybe these changes will shift the balance in favour of the M3; I’ll have to wait to drive it and find out.