Post by Kasey Kagawa

Well, the E92 M3 is here, and the first reviews are out. Overall, they’re very positive, reporting solid handling, a great engine, a beautiful body and good interior. There’s only one consistent complaint, and it’s a big one if you’re a fan of the original race-bred E30 M3. Reports of a preference for understeer, a wobbly gearshift, and number handling than what was expected for what’s supposed to be the racer of the BMW M Division lineup have been seen. For example, despite having a 70 HP advantage over the E46 M3, the new M3 is no faster around the Nurburgring than the old model. There are those who disagree, though. Tom Ford of Top Gear thinks that even though it’s not as hardcore as M3s from days gone by, it’s far more important that it be great to drive and more accessible. Fear not, however, because if you think that a Lotus Exige is your idea of a perfectly acceptable daily driver, BMW has confirmed that they’re already working on a CSL version. Here’s hoping we see it over here, unlike the E46 M3 CSL.

First Drive: 2008 BMW M3 [Edmunds Inside Line]
Has the BMW M3 gone soft? [Top Gear]