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As of spring 2010, the high-performance model BMW M3 consistently combines its outstanding driving performance figures with further reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. The range of BMW EfficientDynamics measures fitted as standard in the models BMW M3 Coupé, BMW M3 Convertible and BMW M3 Sedan is now to be supplemented with the Auto Start Stop Function. This reduces the average fuel consumption and CO2 levels of the BMW M3 by up to 8 per cent or 24 grams of CO2 per kilometre. In order to further hone the outstandingly sporty profile of the model there will also be a Competition Package available as of spring 2010.

Auto Start Stop Function for the BMW M3 - for the first time in conjunction with a dual clutch transmission

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The BMW M3 achieves its outstanding performance with impressive efficiency. Its 4.0 litre V8 high-revving engine mobilises 309 kW/420 bhp, enabling superior acceleration response due to its unique propulsion. In addition to its fascinating performance characteristics, the 8-cylinder engine - developed exclusively for the BMW M3 - is characterised by an unusually high degree of efficiency. Additional efficiency potential is now tapped into with the Auto Start Stop Function. This helps the drive avoid idling phases when stopping at junctions or in congested traffic. In order to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption the engine is switched off when the vehicle comes to a halt. As soon as the driver wishes to continue driving, the engine is re-activated without delay.

The Auto Start Stop Function is used both in vehicles with standard 6-speed manual transmission and in conjunction with the M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic. The BMW M3 is thus the first model - along with the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 - to use this efficiency-enhancing measure in combination with an automated manual transmission.

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The increase in efficiency brought about by the Auto Start Stop Function is up to 8 per cent of 24 grams of CO2 per kilometre, depending on the model and transmission type. For example, the BMW M3 Coupé with 7-speed M dual clutch transmission and Drivelogic powered by a V8 high-revving engine with 309 kW/420 bhp now achieves an average fuel consumption on the EU test cycle of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres (6-speed manual transmission: 12.4 litres). The same figures apply to the BMW M3 Sedan. In the case of the BMW M3 Convertible, the average fuel consumption is reduced to 11.5 litres (M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic) or 12.7 litres (6-speed manual transmission) per 100 kilometres. All versions of the BMW M3 will also meet the exhaust emission norm EU5 in future.

Modified rear lights with glass covers in a homogeneous red colour provide an additional visual accentuation in the BMW M3 Coupé and the BMW M3 Convertible. With two harmoniously illuminating light banks fed by LED units, they create a characteristic nocturnal design.

New for the BMW M3: Competition Package and retrofit options

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The Competition Package, available for the Coupé and the Sedan, and the retrofit options from the range of Original BMW Accessories specially developed for the BMW M3 are just two possible ways of individualising the sports car. With a suspension lowered by some 10 mm and light alloy wheels in the size 9 x 19 inches at the front and Y-spoke design at the rear, the Competition Package provides further optimised longitudinal and transverse dynamics. In addition, the control of the electronic damper adjustment function EDC including a Sport mode specially developed for the Competition Package has been precisely adjusted to the chassis modifications by means of map-based control and the driving stability control function DSC.

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The new range of items from the Original BMW Accessories program available for the BMW M3 provides an even more intense driving experience. Retrofit options designed for this model are specifically geared towards increasing dynamic performance and driving pleasure. For example a rear spoiler and front apron flaps in carbon will be available from spring 2010. As well as perfectly matching the Competition Package the aerodynamically optimised components further reduce lift force, thereby increasing the driving dynamics potential of the BMW M3.