BMW M3 and M4 leak ahead of Detroit debut

Wed, 11 Dec 2013

Images of the overhauled BMW M3 sedan and M4 coupe have leaked ahead of a debut at next month's Detroit Auto Show, along with option sheets and some specs.

Both wear the standard hallmarks of BMW's M division. There's a subtle power dome in the hood, along with the requisite M3/4-branded strakes on the front fenders. The front and rear fascia are more aggressive than what we've seen in the 3/4 Series M Sport package, as well. Split-five-spoke wheels mean the neither car will stand out in the family portrait and those gold calipers, meanwhile, signify what has been rumored for some time - the M3 and M4 will be getting carbon-ceramic brakes.

The cabin is home to the standard suite of M accoutrements, including a new steering wheel and more heavily bolstered seats. Special trim, including carbon fiber, will be available to further set these cars apart from the standard models.

We reported on the M3 and M4's powertrains back in September, but as a quick refresher, both cars will use a 430-horsepower, twin-turbocharged six-cylinder with the owner's choice of a six-speed manual or a dual-clutch transmission.

According to the options sheet provided by BimmerBoost, an adaptive suspension, 19-inch wheels and a head-up display will be available as optional goodies, along with a range of more traditional luxury options like heated and powered seats, a parking assistant, side and top-view cameras and LED lighting.

Finally, the color palette - both cars will be available in eight colors. The M3 you see above is in Yas Marina Blue Metallic, while we're guessing the M4 is Austin Yellow Metallic (which reminds more than one Autoblog editor of the E46's Phoenix Gold).

Take a look up top for M4 images and down below for M3 images, and then let us know what you think of the new sports cars down in Comments.

By Brandon Turkus