With a more car-like...
With a more car-like profile than the current model, it will still seat five, not seven. However, buyers can expect a more flexible cabin. While the outgoing model only has a 60/40 split-folding rear bench, the newcomer is set to feature seats which drop flat into the floor, to put it on a par with class rivals.
German firm BMW will...
German firm BMW will return to the American Le Mans series this year. After an absence of seven years, the former champion outfit is joining forces with Rahal Letterman Racing to campaign the M3 GT2.
Based on the recently launched production version, the racing newcomer boasts a host of modifications for track success, including a tuned 4.0-litre V8 producing around 485bhp and driving the rear wheels. Externally, it gets plenty of aero÷dynamic tweaks, while carbon fibre is used for a number of body panels.
Team chief and ex-Champ Car racer Bobby Rahal was upbeat about the M3’s prospects. He said: “BMW has an illustrious racing heritage, and we’re eagerly anticipating playing a lead role in returning the brand to the sharp end of the ALMS grid.”
The last time BMW competed in the US was in 2001, when it won the GT2 class with its controversial M3 GTR. But protests from rival teams about its legality led to the firm’s withdrawal from the series in 2002.
The new car is still being developed, with three-time WTCC champion Andy Priaulx behind the wheel, but the squad expects to make its debut in autumn. The first race of the season will be the Sebring 12 Hours in Florida on 15 March.