2006 BMW M3

For enthusiasts of ultimate automotive performance, it's a magic name: BMW M3. Combining the all-around excellence of the BMW 3 Series with the spectacular performance and handling prowess of BMW M, the two M3 models are formidable BMW sports cars that have won – again and again – the accolades and comparison-test victories of the world's motoring critics while providing their buyers with real performance and equally real practicality.

For 2006, the two M3 models – the M3 Coupe and the M3 Convertible – continue. The Coupe offers enhanced standard equipment and a new option. Standards are leather upholstery newly standard in Coupe, newly composed Premium package, power rear-window sunshade newly available in Coupe.Optional 19-inch forged alloy wheel no longer available on Coupe with Competition Package.

In its broad concept, the M3 engine, designated the S54, shares its format with other BMW inline 6-cylinder engines. Virtually all of its engineering details, however, are unique and oriented to the very highest level of performance. An inline six is longer than a V6, and BMW nurtures the inline layout because of its superior smoothness and sound.

Given the M3's performance nature, it does not seem logical to offer an automatic transmission as such; no matter how good – and BMW's 5- and 6-speed automatics are among the best – an automatic transmission incurs some performance loss relative to a well handled manual gearbox. On the other hand, given today's capabilities in electronics and hydraulics, it does make great sense to improve on the M3's 6-speed manual transmission and give it some automated operation. For some years now, racing drivers, in particular those in the world's premier class, Formula 1, have availed themselves of “power shifting” of manual transmissions via an electrohydraulic system.

In a high-performance sports car, instruments are of paramount importance; the M3's do not disappoint. Its instrument cluster resembles that of the M5 with bright rings around each of the four dials, M logo in the speedometer, and red pointers throughout. The tachometer is of great interest. As first seen in the M5, the variable warning segment from 4000 to 8000 rpm reminds the driver to not approach maximum performance until the engine is warm. In M3s equipped with the Sequential Manual Gearbox II, once the engine is warm, these LEDs illuminate progressively as engine revs climb, helping the driver shift right at the redline. Also in the tachometer face is an analog oil-temperature gauge. Another prominent facet of the driver's command center is the special M sport steering wheel.

The next step up for the Coupe is optional power sport seats, with 8-way power adjustment and manual thigh support. These are included in the Coupe's optional Premium Package and are available as a stand-alone option as well; they include a memory system for the driver's seat and outside mirrors. Standard in the M3 Convertible are 10-way power sports seats; the Convertible's front safety belts are fully integrated into the seats, optimizing belt fit on the occupants and easing entry into the rear seats.