Auto Car Sport News: 2010 BMW M3 Coupe Review and Prices with Pics

Saturday, September 25, 2010

2010 BMW M3 Coupe Review and Prices with Pics

The rivalry between Audi and BMW is a clash of industry heavyweights, a battle for the hearts and minds of the most demanding, tough-minded car enthusiasts in the world between two adventurous, successful car companies. And it's all coming down to the 2010 Audi RS5 and the 2010 BMW M3 CSL.

These cars are coming down the production pipeline, major statements of automotive performance by two companies that care more about excellence than profit. (They're German, after all.) If you're a car enthusiast, the prospect of these two super coupes will be all you're going to be talking about for the next year.

And yet both Audi and BMW want the other to win the race to market. Why? Because the output of the V8-powered 2010 Audi RS5 and 2010 BMW CSL will both hover around 450 horsepower, and whichever arrives first allows the enemy to gazump it on peak power.

Under that muscular hood is a 414-horsepower, 4.0-liter V-8. This phenomenal engine smashes through the coveted 100 horsepower-per-liter mark and leaves you hanging on for dear life. Variable camshaft control and eight throttle valves ensure optimal airflow to the combustion chambers, while the spark plugs do double-duty to sense and help prevent bad combustion.

Power is delivered through a precise six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Intelligent alternator control utilizes energy from regenerative braking to charge the battery, thus improving fuel economy. The M3 achieves 13-14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Fuel economy is better than the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, but a bit behind the Lexus IS-F.

In designing the interior, the specialists at BMW M GmbH have succeeded in offering the occupants maximum driving pleasure in an ambience tailored to their specific needs and wishes. This applies particularly to the driver, with all controls and instruments relating directly to the active driving experience in the car adapted to the supreme performance of the BMW M3 and re-designed from the ground up wherever appropriate.

Double circular instruments with white illumination and red needles, the M leather steering wheel and the newly designed centre console all characterize the cockpit of the new BMW M3. The door cutout trim embellished by the characteristic M logo, the support for the driver's left foot made of brushed metal, the special design and color of the inner door panels, as well as the trim strip made of high-quality, sophisticated materials exclusive to BMW M such as leather in carbon design or aluminum, all serve to underline the supreme and truly unique position of the new BMW M3.

Pricing starts at $56,500. Compared to the previous-generation M3 Coupe, the new two-door is around $8,000 more expensive. Of course, it packs a whole lot more punch, too.

A premium package, priced at $1900, offers power folding mirrors, universal garage opener, digital compass mirror, BMW Assist, Novillo Leather interior and choice of three optional interior trims.

The technology package includes EDC, M Drive, Comfort Access, and a navigation system -- all for $3250.

19" wheels are $1200, Electronic Damping Control is $1000, and Extended Novillo Leather can be had for $2000 as a standalone option or $1000 with the premium package. Enhanced premium sound is $1900.