2014 BMW M3 caught testing (video)

The next generation BMW M3 has been caught on video hot weather testing in Spain. Should debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

BMW are readying their sixth-generation M3, codenamed F80, which was spied wearing a thin disguise whilst undergoing hot weather testing in Spain.

The headline news is the use of an all-new smaller-displacement straight-six engine supported by at least two or possibly even three turbochargers. This engine will supersede the 414bhp (420PS) 4.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 of the current model and should boast somewhere in the region of 450bhp. This makes it more-powerful than the 414bhp limited-edition E90 M3 GTS of 2010.

It’s not just the engine that’s set to change though, in an M3 first, a manual box is not expected to be offered. The model will instead be fitted with a twin-clutch M-DCT transmission, similar to the seven-speed Getrag transmission fitted to the existing model. Buyers can also expect a reworked chassis and an M differential.

Visually, the car will benefit from a beefy body kit consisting of flared arches, housing 19-inch alloys, aggressive front and rear bumpers and increased deeper front air intakes. Side skirts, a rear diffuser and quad-exhausts will round off the characteristically purposeful look. Expect the model to debut at a major motor show next year with sales beginning in the latter half of the year or early in 2014.

Meanwhile, if you fancy a current-gen 3-series and just can’t wait until then, BMW are planning to sell-off a limited number of the models used during London 2012 to ferry athletes, officials and their families between UK airports and Olympic venues. To register your interest visit www.golddust.uk.com entering the user name BMWGold and password BMWDust.