2021 BMW M3 and M4 revealed with up to 375kW and controversial new design

BMW has revealed its upcoming M3 and M4 performance twins, which will arrive in Australia early next year with a design sure to divide opinion.

Just as it did with the new 4 Series, BMW has been bold with the front end, giving both cars its controversial “coffin grilles”.

Other design flourishes include flared wheel arches with M gills, carbon fibrrew reinforced plastic roof, rear spoiler and four large tailpipes.

Colours include Sao Paulo Yellow, Toronto Red and Isle of Man Green, while buyers can order an optional M Carbon exterior package and model-specific BMW M Performance Parts from launch.

There is a variety of choice when it comes to the powertrain.

A 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight six is available with 353kW/550Nm in base spec, or 375kW/650Nm in Competition guise.

Going somewhat against modern trends, all variants will be available with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic.

There will also be a choice of rear or all-wheel-drive, however those wanting the latter will have to opt for the Competition models and wait for BMW’s M xDrive system to arrive in late 2021.

It offers 4WD and 4WD Sport modes, which will give a rear bias to the power supply and team up with an active differential at the rear axle.

The M3 and M4 Competition can cover the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds.

The duo sit on an M-specific chassis made to be extremely rigid, while driving is aided by an adaptive suspension with electronically-controlled shock absorbers.

Helping stick to the road, standard spec includes 19-inch wheels shod in 275/35 ZR19 tyres at the front and 20-inch wheels pairing with 285/30 ZR20 tyres at the rear.

If you want more action at the back when on a track, the new M Traction Control allows the traction control to be adjusted in 10 stages to suit driver preferences.

There’s also M Drift Analyser, which records and rates driving stats when cornering.

Inside, there are new electrically adjustable, ventilated M sport seats with fine-grain Merino leather trim as standard, or there’s the option of new M Carbon bucket seats with integral head restraints which can be dismantled for track driving, an illuminated model badge and the ability to accommodate multi-point racing seat belts.

Standard gear includes a head-up display, three-zone climate control, LED interior lighting, 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system, wireless smartphone integration and more.

Australian pricing will be released closer to the pair’s local arrival.