Vehicle: 2008 BMW M3 Coupe with Executive Pkg, M Drive Pkg and high gloss shadow line
Price as tested: CDN$81695

Performance: After a decade with the lengendary straight-6 powertrain in E36 and E46 generations of M3s, BMW decided its time to opt for V8 to challenge the best compact supersedans which have the similar powertrain layout. The result is a 4.0 liter 32-valve DOHC V8 with the latest Valvetronic and Double VANOS technlogies, that improves engine breathing and performance. The result is a superb performing engine with 414 hp and 295 lb/ft of torque at driver’s disposal. To make this engine even more interesting, the use of individual throttle bodies for each cylinder has created amazing throttle response thoroughout the rev range. The throttle response is quick and without the usual abrupt take-off we have experienced in some BMWs. As with all BMW powertrains, its a rev-happy engine that loves to sing at high rpm. On the other hand, the engine note is as intoxicating in low rpm when accelerating. Equally impressive is the 6-speed manual gearbox. The shifts are typical BMW smooth, with wonderful gates and throws. Clutch is light and progressive. In order to make the performance to a higher level, latest M3 is available with M Drive. Which allows the enthuisastic driver to set at different settings from engine rev to seat bolstering. When set at “power”, it makes a whole lot of difference. The M Drive is an option worths every pennies.

Handling: When it comes to chassis stiffness, rigidty and rear-drive 50/50 perfect weight distribution, 3-Series’s fundamental is hard to fault. The optional M Drive would make this an even more interesting when the “M” setting that gives it a stiffer rebound damping for better dynamics. The steering weight has a desired effect as it feels heavier. The steering feedback, precision and responsiveness are ones expected from BMW Motorsport division. Another nice enhancement is the M Differential Lock, which makes the M3 has zero wheelspin when taking off the traffic light on heavy throttle. The EDC, or Electronic Damping Control, also acts hand-in-hand with all those systems accordingly. Set EDC with “sport plus” and “M” on M Drive, its about as good as anything else. As expect from an M3, the cornering is sharp and flat, with only minimal body rolls. BMW has dialled in a bit of safe understeer when pushed for better control on daily driving. However, its excellent DSC-3, remains a superb system which have 3 settings. The lowest setting, which is completely shut off, allows for a total oversteer when the enthuisastic needs on the racetrack for maximum fun. The most delightful surprise is the level of ride comfort M3 provides. Its not only have a sense of Teutonic suppleness dials in through the rebound damping, its ride is firm without being twitchy on rough pavements. Its firm, controllable and far from being harsh.

Brakes: Just like the rest of the dynamic package, M3′s braking performance lives up to what we usually expect from BMW. The stopping distance is exceptional, while the pedal feel and modulation are amazing. After a couple of hard stops, its completely fade-free. ABS doesn’t intervene until absolutely necessary.

Interior: The M3 is loaded it to the ninth. It got a great set of BMW Motorsport sports seats that have great side, thigh and back support for cornering. Instrumentation gauges are clear and analog. The rest of the interior is typical 3-Series fanfare. The use of materials are acceptable if not outstanding, even if BMW is charging 80 large grand for an M3.

Conclusion: This is, without a doubt, the best M3 ever produced. It got an even better performance, more entertaining handling thanks to those smart electronic aids and the usual creature comfort.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2008 BMW M3
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Performance: 5/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5
Value-for-money: 3/5

Overall rating: 4.5/5