2008 BMW M3 Sedan Preview

Hardware

Historically, all BMW M3s have been front-engine, rear-wheel-drive. The 2008 M3 Sedan is no exception. An all-new 4.0-liter V-8 is rated at 414 hp, making this the most powerful M3 Sedan ever sold. When compared to the 3.2-liter 333 hp six-cylinder engine found in the previous generation M3 Coupe, the new V-8 powerplant weighs less, yet offers a substantial increase in power. (Enthusiasts will recall the last powerplant offered in a U.S.-spec M3 Sedan was a 3.2-liter inline-6 rated at 240 hp.) For now, the only transmission offered is a 6-speed manual with a mass inertia optimized, and internally ventilated, twin-disc clutch.
BMW developed a new aluminum chassis specifically for this model with near-perfect 50/50 weight balance in mind. Virtually all front-end components have been constructed with lightweight aluminum. These include the front struts, swivel bearings, central subframe, and a stiffening thrust panel below the engine. The five-arm design rear axle, transverse arms and track arms, are also manufactured from lightweight aluminum alloy. Both front and rear axles feature hollow anti-roll bars. Hidden inside the standard 18-inch light-alloy wheels are four large, ventilated and drilled, compound high performance disc brakes equipped with ABS.

Assisting the driver, power distribution between the wheels and suspension settings are controlled both mechanically and electronically. A mechanical rear differential, called the M Differential Lock, is able to transfer 100% of the power to the drive wheel with the best traction. Electronic Damper Control (EDC) optimizes the car's dive and roll during cornering, acceleration, and braking. Electronic intervention, which can be completely defeated, is handled by the multi-mode Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). BMW's "MDrive" allows the driver to personalize many of the M3 Sedan's driving characteristics including traction control settings, stability control sensitivity, suspension modes, and throttle response.

Safety

The comprehensive safety features on the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan mirror those found in the 2008 M3 Coupe. These include dual front-impact airbags (with dual-threshold deployment), front-seat side-impact airbags, and pretensioning seatbelts to protect the driver and front passenger. All outboard passengers are further protected by side-impact curtain airbags running the length of the cabin. BMW's Advanced Crash Safety Management system unlocks the doors, switches on the hazard flashers, illuminates the interior lights, and disconnects the fuel pump, alternator, and starter in the event of a severe accident.

The M3 Sedan may also be equipped with BMW Assist, a hands-free communication system based on GPS and cellular phone technology. In the event of an accident, the system will automatically alert authorities to the exact location of the vehicle. BMW Assist also offers roadside assistance, stolen vehicle recovery, and concierge services.

Technology

The race-bred V-8 mounted under the M3 Sedan's hood utilizes ion-current technology to determine engine knock, misfires, and poor combustion (these conditions, the results of fuel burning in an uncontrolled manner, are detrimental to engine life). Unlike most engine management systems that control and monitor combustion from external sensor points, BMW uses an innovative system to monitor engine performance from within the combustion chamber itself-the spark plug. Each of the eight spark plugs is tasked with fuel ignition, and monitoring and controlling the combustion process. The dual function of the spark plugs facilitates better performance, diagnostics, and maintenance of the M3's engine. -Michael Harley

View Ratings for the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan