Four generations of M3 have been built but this is only the second time an M3 saloon model has been offered. BMW claims the four-door offers a similar level of performance to its two-door brother – figures below support this – and the release of the saloon will spread the M3's appeal to a wider audience.

The saloon manages zero to 62mph in 4.9 seconds, only 0.1 seconds slower than the coupé, before going onto a limited top speed of 155mph.

Details about the launch date and pricing of the M3 Saloon will be announced shortly.