Aussie Motoring

The new BMW M3 Convertible is about to hit Australian streets and it’s definitely something special. The new M3 comes with a high-revving V8 that’s even lighter than the six-cylinder unit that powered previous M3s. The new 309kW 4.0 litre motor comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.

What makes this BMW even more interesting is the fact that this is the first BMW to be offered with an optional  seven-speed M double clutch transmission with BMW’s Drivelogic and specifically designed to work with high-revving V8 engines.

The M3 Convertible also features a retractable hard-top as standard, sun-reflective leather upholstery that keeps the surface temperature at up to 20 degrees Celsius cooler than conventional leather.

The first demo models of the BMW M3 Convertible will be in the showrooms from July but the first deliveries to customers won’t begin until the last quarter of the year.

BMW have unveiled the new M3 convertible and it’s definitely one very hot looking machine. Powered by a 4 litre 309 kW V8 and fitted with BMW’s new seven speed double-clutch tranmission the M3 will acccelerate from zero to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds. And despite all that grunt it will still return 12.3 litres per 100km.

The braking system, like that of the M3 Coupé, comprises vented, cross-drilled discs at front and rear, designed to minimise weight while minimising thermal loads under heavy use.

The M3 Convertible is fitted with dual front and head-thorax side airbags as well as central safety electronics that control the restraint systems, including a roll bar behind the rear seats that is automatically activated in the event of a rollover. The driver is able to choose from three selectable control maps in the optional EDC Electronic Damper Control system that enable the M3 Convertible to adapt to a wide variety of driving conditions.

The M3 Convertible’s three-piece lightweight steel roof opens or retracts in 22 seconds to provide the best of both worlds in a structure offering extremely high standards of torsional stiffness and passenger safety.

The upgraded interior is available with a wide range of customisation options, innovative colours and materials and an optional BMW Individual High End audio system with a nine-channel amplifier and 16 high-power speakers.

Only the doors, three-piece steel roof, boot lid, windows and rear lights are interchangeable with other 3 Series Convertibles.