Take a look at BMW forum threads and you’ll see that fans out there just can’t wait to find out what happens to the M division. Well, good news… The automaker is to add the most powerful version to the long line of M3s. I can’t help mentioning that it is a very anticipated launch, since it is the most popular M-badged car. It is now officially stated that BMW has dropped the high-revving 4.0-liter V8 in favor of an inline-six engine. The M3 engine is actually a newly developed 3.2 liter unit, with its fundamentals found in the current M3 engine, the V8. The most powerful M3 will boast at least two turbochargers bolted to the new six-cylinder powerplant. The engine of the new M hotness is rated at 450 hp. Remaining a rear-wheel drive model, it’ll offer a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

If compared to the standard 3-series, the upcoming vehicle will have a heavily modified chassis as well as wider front and rear tracks. Will it be a success? Probably, but let’s not ignore the possibility of the model’s replacement, since the old-school M fans might not like the absence of a high-revving naturally anspirated engine. Whether it will be replaced or not, we’ll find out not earlier than 2014. As for now, take your time and check out the Bimmer that is so much awaited.

A limited-production version of the M3 coupe named the Lime Rock Park Edition has been released recently as a commemoration of the long term relationship between BMW and the famed Lime Rock Park racing circuit. Being built on the same platform as the M3 coupe, the model features special enhancements selected with the collaboration of Skip Barber, the owner of the Lime Rock Park.

The most significant change made to this model is certainly the Fire Orange paint. The other changes made to the exterior include a carbon fiber roof panel, carbon fiber aero kits at the front and rear. As for powertrain, Lime Rock Edition models are fitted with the M3′s 4.0-liter V8 and mated to BMW’s six-speed manual transmission. Starting $70,995, 2013 BMW M3 Coupe Lime Rock Park Edition will hit the road this September. There are only 200 units to be produced.

The upcoming M3 was spied testing in Nurburgring revealing that the overall proportions of the model won’t be changed a lot from the current M3′s. The super popular M product will look more updated due to its wider body, 19-inch wheels, and quad exhaust finishers. Noticed in a sedan form, the M3 is likely to be followed by the Coupe and Convertible variants, all equipped with the same engine. Check out spy shots of the sedan going around the track for a new trial before its release.

Image Credit: Autoblog, autoevolution

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