M3 goes green

It's the performance leader of the 3 Series range, but BMW's M3 is hardly a likely candidate for saving the planet -- until now. In adding Auto Stop/Start technology to this high performance package, BMW has proved that performance motoring and an environmental conscience can go hand-in-hand.

Since 2009, BMW has sold more than one million Efficient Dynamics models -- the title given to models sporting the German brand's environmentally friendly technologies -- with a range of highly efficient petrol and diesel models available across the line-up.

The 4.0-litre V8-powered M3, delivering a muscular 309kW/400Nm, has been immune from eco-molestation, but as manufacturers strive to meet strict new emissions standards, and as buyers push for more environmentally responsible transportation, the tall poppy of the 3 Series range has finally succumbed to a four-wheeled greening.

Not that you'd notice. The M3 still delivers the same breath taking performance and razor-sharp handling that earned the much-lauded model its lofty status -- helped by the 0-100km/h sprint completed in less than five seconds -- but in addition to its impressive acceleration figures BMW has trimmed a respectable six per cent from the automatic model's combined fuel consumption figure -- now just 11.2L/100km.

Available with both six-speed manual and seven-speed Sports Automatic Double-Clutch transmissions, Auto Stop/Start technology is now offered as standard on all new M3 variants -- the revised model distinguished by a revamped tail light cluster.

We first reported that BMW was contemplating the eco-friendly technology for its V8 bahnstormer back in February. Now, it's definitely pencilled in for a retail launch next month, priced from $158,300.

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