BMW M3 GTS aural delight at Nurburgring Nordschleife

BMW is almost ready to release the M3 GTS. Two examples were spotted at the Nurburgring ahead of the official media launch. The M3 GTS is the most track-focused M3 in the current line-up. It features a 4.4-litre V8 engine pushing out 450 PS (331 kW / 444 bhp), an increase of 30 PS (22 kW / 29.5 bhp). Driving the 19-inch rear wheels is a 7-speed M-DCT transmission.

More important is the weight of 1,490kg (3,285 lbs), 190kg (419 lbs) less than the standard M3 Coupe. A few weight-saving measures include the use of lightweight seats and a titanium silencer. Aerodynamics are improved through the use of a race-oriented front air dam and rear wing, as well as the large adjustable rear wing.

The interior has light bucket seats, carbon fibre trim, Alcantara inserts, six-point seatbelts and a fire extinguisher. Unfortunately the car does not meet American EPA safety standards and modifying it to those standards would be too costly. Therefore it is highly unlikely to reach the US.

In Europe the BMW M3 GTS will cost about €115,000 when it goes on sale in Germany this month. Other countries will get it in the summer.