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      08-16-2011, 04:59 PM   #1
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Cool BMW F30 M3 / F32 M3 Spotted Again. Wearing F32 M3 Coupe Front End?

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BMW F30 M3 / F32 M3 Spotted Again. Wearing F32 M3 Coupe Front End?
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The next generation F30/F32 M3 continues its testing and we've now spotted it for the second time, in much higher detail (click on photos below for hi-res versions).

As before, the signature M3 cues are all clearly seen - quad exhaust, flared fenders, wider track, drilled rotors, and beefier front end. The brakes feature 4 piston calipers.

We believe we may be looking at a different front end on this M3 than on the regular F30 3-series sedan. The clearest clue is the shape of the kidney grilles, which seem to be shapelier and thinner than those seen on the F30 3-series prototypes (see below for comparison). The entire front end also seems to be a different shape compared to the F30 3-series prototypes. Is it possible that this prototype is wearing the F32 coupe's front end? Perhaps.

It's pretty much accepted that the next generation M3 will go forced induction with a 6 cylinder motor. We've enhanced an image below which shows what appears to be the intercooler - starting behind the kidney grilles and extending down to the lower bumper grille. Exactly what configuration the turbo 6 engine may take on is a favorite point of speculation among our members. We believe the next M3 may be powered by a triple-turbocharged inline-6 3.2L engine with an output of around 450hp. It could be based on the N54/55 engine and use not only two traditional turbochargers but also a third electric turbocharger.

Scott26 claims that these photos are no indication of an M3 sedan making it to production. Rather, BMW had only an F30 prototype to use for testing the M3 parts and components. Don't count the F30 M3 sedan out yet however, as it's been alluded to that it may still be in the plans -- despite the rather slow sales of the E90 M3 sedan.

Expect the new M3 to hit the market sometime in 2014. As we reported earlier, the E90 M3 sedan will end production this October while the E92/3 M3 coupe and convertible will be produced through June 2012 at least.

Be sure to follow our F30/F32 M3 coverage @ http://www.bimmerpost.com/m3/f30m3/


* Click on images for larger resolution versions


















F30/F32 M3 grille and intercooler:




F30 3-series grille:











Previous photo set:















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