The 2024 BMW M3, a benchmark model in the performance car segment, has received several significant upgrades in the Malaysian market. The core changes include the optimization of the powertrain and the enhancement of technological features. The new car still comes with a 3.0-litre inline-six twin-turbocharged engine. However, after being retuned, the maximum power of the Competition version has been increased to 525 horsepower (20 horsepower more than the previous model). It is paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission or an optional 6-speed manual transmission, and it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Laser headlights and a carbon fibre roof are now standard features. Inside the car, the latest iDrive 8.5 system has been adopted, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch curved central control screen. Notably, the 2024 model has optimized the cooling system for the Southeast Asian climate and added a heated steering wheel function (which is especially useful in cool areas in Malaysia such as Genting Highlands). For Malaysian owners who are enthusiastic about track driving, the M Drive Professional package can be optionally installed, which includes a drift analyzer and a lap timer. For reference, the current BMW M3 is priced from around RM 899,800 in Malaysia (excluding insurance and optional features). The price of the 2024 model is expected to increase slightly, but the specific figure awaits the official announcement from BMW Malaysia. This car will continue to compete with models like the Mercedes - AMG C 63 S in the Malaysian high - performance sedan market.
