Driven Performance Car of the Year

The BMW M3 and M4 Coupe (left) have moved from V8 to six-cylinder twin-turbo power.

BMW M3/4

BMW has downsized its most famous M-car in tune with the times, while at the same time increasing its stature as one of the world's best performance machines.

The new M3 (sedan) and M4 (coupe) have moved from V8 to six-cylinder twin-turbo power, achieving a 25 per cent improvement in fuel economy - but a 40 per cent increase in torque. The new car is lighter, faster and more lithe than ever before.

BMW M3

The muscular 317kW/550Nm engine has a seamless power delivery and the automated dual-clutch transmission ensures rapid upshifts and crisp, racing-style downchanges. The chassis is laden with technology to draw the serious driver, including an active differential and adaptive suspension.

BMW M4

The fundamental genius of this M-car remains in its ability to fulfil the demands of everyday driving, yet turn into a track-ready machine at the touch of a button.