We finally have the technical details about the next generation 2015 BMW M3 (F80) and M4 (F82). Yes, the current M3 coupe changes its name to M4, while the M3 continues as sedan only. Both will share the same straight six turbo-charged engine and two transmission choices. The high revving and naturally aspirated V8 of the current generation has been replaced by a turbo straight six. (BMW has not specified the new engine’s displacements in this press release, but another outlet says it’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter). BMW estimates that the motor is good for 430 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Of course, weight savings was the main goal for the next generation of M cars, and BMW is happy to announce that the car lost upto 180 kg or 397 pounds.
These are very impressive numbers. The new M4 coupe will have a curb weight of about 3,307 lbs and a high-revving turbocharged motor with a very wide torque curve and 430 peak horsepower. BMW is known to underrate its engines, so these will be amazingly fast cars. Considering that the M4 has nearly the same power to weight ratio as the 2014 M6, sub-4.0 second 0-60 MPH times may be possible.
| 2013 BMW M3 E92 | 2015 BMW M4 F82 | |
| Engine | 4.0-liter V8 | Turbo I-6 |
| Power (hp / lb-ft) | 414 @8300 / 295 @3900 | 430 @7300 / 369 @1800 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3,704 | 3,307 |
| Power-to-weight | 8.95 lb/hp | 7.69 lb/hp |
BMW drew on wealth of knowledge it gathers in DTM and other racing series to improve every element and part of the next generation M3/M4. Enthusiasts can rejoice about the fact that a new 6-speed manual transmission will be available on the new car as standard equipment. The 7-speed M double-clutch transmission with launch control can be added as an option. The manual transmission uses dry sump oil system for optimum lubrication. This and the forged light-weight crankshaft combine for a very fast revving engine.
This should make M car fans and traditionalists much more happy than they have been in recent years. The next generation M3/M4 sports cars promise to deliver a light weight car with a properly sounding and fast/high revving straight six engine and a 6-speed manual transmission.
TFLcar has extensive coverage of the 2014 BMW cars.
Also, check out this video montage of the 2014 BMW M5 and M6 with Competition package.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFLcar since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.
