The new BMW M3 Coupé with Competition Package

BMW has introduced a Competition Package for its class-leading BMW M3 Coupé to enhance the model’s unparalleled driving dynamics. The package will go on sale 20 March, 2010.

The new Competition Package comprises a revised Electronic Damper Control with a new Sport setting which, when coupled with the 10mm lower suspension, improves the standard car’s already dynamic handling.  A Dynamic Stability Control Plus system with subtly less electronic intervention than before allows for a more enthusiastic driving style. Exclusively designed 19-inch light alloy wheels, inspired by the popular E46 M3 CSL, complete the package.

The Competition Package is priced at £3,315 in addition to the standard BMW M3 Coupé’s £52,730 OTR price.

At the same time Auto Start-Stop technology comes as standard to all versions of BMW’s M3. The Coupé, Convertible and Saloon already feature Brake Energy Regeneration, lightweight engineering principles and on-demand use of ancillary systems to enhance all round efficiency. The introduction of Auto Start-Stop, on both manual and M DCT transmission-equipped cars, represents the first time a BMW model with more than four-cylinders and a transmission other than a six-speed manual has featured the technology. No other high performance car currently comes with this capability.

The benefits of Auto Start-Stop for all BMW M3 models results in significant reductions in CO2 emissions and an improvement in fuel consumption from the EU5 compliant powerplant. The table below outlines the full details:

BMW M3 Coupé

CO2 emissions (g/km) non Auto Start-Stop    285

CO2 emissions (g/km) with Auto Start-Stop   263

Combined mpg non Auto Start-Stop                23.7

Combined mpg with Auto Start-Stop               25.2

BMW M3 Convertible

CO2 emissions (g/km) non Auto Start-Stop    293

CO2 emissions (g/km) with Auto Start-Stop   269

Combined mpg non Auto Start-Stop                23.0

Combined mpg with Auto Start-Stop               24.6

BMW M3 Saloon

CO2 emissions (g/km) non Auto Start-Stop    285

CO2 emissions (g/km) with Auto Start-Stop   263

Combined mpg non Auto Start-Stop                23.7

Combined mpg with Auto Start-Stop               25.2

Figures quoted are for M DCT-equipped cars.

All BMW M3 models equipped with the system go on sale 20 March, 2010.

Ends

The BMW Group               
The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of more than 1.43 million automobiles and over 101,000 motorcycles for the 2008 financial year. Revenues for 2008 totalled EUR 53.2 billion, with earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of EUR 921 million. The company employed a global workforce of approximately 98,000 associates on 30 September 2009.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                   01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk

Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk