BMW M3 Touring Competition Arrives in UK
The BMW M3 Touring Competition has finally arrived in the UK, combining the performance of a sports saloon with the practicality of an estate car. Priced from £85,000, this model marks the first time BMW has offered an M3 estate, competing with rivals like the Audi RS4 Avant and Mercedes-AMG C63 Estate.
Performance and Engine Specs
Under the bonnet, the M3 Touring Competition packs a 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-six engine producing 510hp and 650Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed limited to 155mph (or 180mph with the optional M Driver's Package). Power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox and BMW's xDrive system, which can be set to rear-wheel drive for more spirited driving.
Silent Mode: A Unique Feature
One standout feature is the 'Silent Mode' function, which allows the driver to mute the exhaust system for discreet driving in residential areas or early mornings. According to BMW, this mode is activated via a button on the steering wheel, reducing exhaust noise to a minimum while still allowing the engine to operate normally. This is particularly useful for owners who want to avoid disturbing neighbours.
Interior and Practicality
Inside, the M3 Touring Competition features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen running BMW's latest iDrive 8 system. The boot offers 500 litres of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,510 litres with them folded. This makes it a practical choice for families or those needing to carry large items.
Driving Experience and Handling
On the road, the M3 Touring Competition delivers a thrilling driving experience. The adaptive M suspension provides a balance between comfort and sportiness, while the M compound brakes offer strong stopping power. The xDrive system ensures excellent traction in all conditions, and the rear-wheel drive mode allows for tail-happy antics when desired. However, the car's weight of 1,865kg is noticeable in tighter corners.
Price and Rivals
Starting at £85,000, the M3 Touring Competition undercuts the Audi RS4 Avant (£72,000) but is more expensive than the Mercedes-AMG C63 Estate (£78,000). Optional extras such as carbon ceramic brakes (£7,000) and the M Driver's Package (£2,500) can push the price over £100,000. According to industry analysts, the M3 Touring Competition is expected to appeal to enthusiasts who need practicality without sacrificing performance.
Conclusion
The BMW M3 Touring Competition is a unique offering in the estate car market, combining supercar-like performance with everyday usability. The silent mode adds a layer of refinement, making it suitable for both track days and school runs. With its blend of power, practicality, and technology, it sets a new benchmark in the high-performance estate segment.
