BMW seldom makes compromises when it comes to designing sports cars. Expectations for the new M3 Coupé, arguably an icon among German performance cars, were literally sky high.
This latest generation, however, turns out to be slightly more refined than its predecessors. Make no mistake: the M3 is still a beast, but with baby-boomers getting older and larger, BMW had to find a way to accommodate their aching backs and generous tummies -- attributes that define this writer, too.
The mug of a monster
The 2009 BMW M3 Coupé definitely has a style of its own. Unquestionably, the lines are derived from the regular 3-Series and, as such, the verdict is still not unanimous. A distinctive aero kit highlights the package, not to mention the powerdome hood which points to the high-revving engine underneath that has every enthusiast smiling.
Considerably larger than the previous model, the new M3 has become a little more mainstream if you know what I mean. It still has a few tricks up its sleeve, though -- tricks that do not affect styling but make a real difference in terms of performance, like the lightweight material for the hood and roof.
Inside, the exotic feeling is not the same. Two adults will find a fair amount of room and comfort in the back… provided that they’re flexible like contortionists. As with all two-door coupes, access to the rear seats of this M3 is indeed tricky for some people.
The dashboard is compromise-free and, in typical BMW fashion, refinement and build quality prevail. However, the controls are just as complex, too, particularly the brand’s infamous iDrive system. Despite some major improvements in recent years, it’s still a pain to use. A single controller (in the form of a rotary dial) in the middle of the center console allows the driver to adjust everything from navigation to audio and climate settings. You have no choice but to shift your focus away from the road in order to keep an eye on your browsing.
On a positive note, the layout is pleasant to look at and the leather trim is remarkably rich. The multi-way adjustable seats also deserve praise as they provide an impeccable driving position in all circumstances. There’s an ideal mix of support and comfort for all your body parts that need to be supported and comforted.
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| Stylish, racy and decidedly sporty, the 2009 BMW M3 Coupé is all that and so much more. |
This latest generation, however, turns out to be slightly more refined than its predecessors. Make no mistake: the M3 is still a beast, but with baby-boomers getting older and larger, BMW had to find a way to accommodate their aching backs and generous tummies -- attributes that define this writer, too.
The mug of a monster
The 2009 BMW M3 Coupé definitely has a style of its own. Unquestionably, the lines are derived from the regular 3-Series and, as such, the verdict is still not unanimous. A distinctive aero kit highlights the package, not to mention the powerdome hood which points to the high-revving engine underneath that has every enthusiast smiling.
Considerably larger than the previous model, the new M3 has become a little more mainstream if you know what I mean. It still has a few tricks up its sleeve, though -- tricks that do not affect styling but make a real difference in terms of performance, like the lightweight material for the hood and roof.
Inside, the exotic feeling is not the same. Two adults will find a fair amount of room and comfort in the back… provided that they’re flexible like contortionists. As with all two-door coupes, access to the rear seats of this M3 is indeed tricky for some people.
The dashboard is compromise-free and, in typical BMW fashion, refinement and build quality prevail. However, the controls are just as complex, too, particularly the brand’s infamous iDrive system. Despite some major improvements in recent years, it’s still a pain to use. A single controller (in the form of a rotary dial) in the middle of the center console allows the driver to adjust everything from navigation to audio and climate settings. You have no choice but to shift your focus away from the road in order to keep an eye on your browsing.
On a positive note, the layout is pleasant to look at and the leather trim is remarkably rich. The multi-way adjustable seats also deserve praise as they provide an impeccable driving position in all circumstances. There’s an ideal mix of support and comfort for all your body parts that need to be supported and comforted.
 |
| The dashboard is compromise-free and, in typical BMW fashion, refinement and build quality prevail. |