Both the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
have over 500 hp but when it’s time to introduce the next-generation M3 and M4,
BMW won’t engage in a horsepower war with its rivals.
BMW Blog asserts that the next M3 and M4 duo will
continue to use a 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine but the powertrain
will now be dubbed the S58. Thanks to a host of modifications, power is
expected to rise from 425 hp in base specification to between 470 and 475 hp.
It is thought that the S58 engine will debut in the X3 M and X4 M before being
introduced in the M3 and M4.
If these rumors prove accurate, they would differ
from previous claims that the next-generation M3 would use a 48-volt electrical
system and a small electric motor mated between the engine and transmission.
Beyond its new and improved engine, the next M3 and
M4 siblings will ride on the carmaker’s CLAR platform. As such, the duo should
weigh around 40 kg less than their predecessors.
Of course, the next-gen 3-Series and 4-Series will
be sold in a plethora of other guises. One interesting addition to the range
will be the 340i M Performance, reportedly being prepped as a rival to the
Mercedes-AMG C43.
