Underneath, the 2021 M3 and M4 are both powered by a formidable six-cylinder inline engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo in two states of tune depending on the transmission offering.

In a move that caters to pure driving enthusiasts, the M3 and M4 will continue to be offered with a six-speed manual transmission, which is unique in the category. This model will come with 480 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque, enough for a 0-100 km/h time of 4.2 seconds (0-200 km/h is done in 13.7 seconds). The manual features the Gear Shift Assistant, which uses engagement speed control to ensure slip-free operation when downshifting under braking into corners.

Meanwhile, those who opt for the 8-speed automatic in the M3 and M4 Competition models will have 510 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h is dispatched in just 3.9 seconds (0-200 km/h in 12.5 seconds).

The M3 and M4 will be offered in rear-wheel drive as part of tradition, but the BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive will be made available as well.

Both M models will feature a unique cooling system for maintaining optimal operating temperatures at all times. A central cooling module is joined by two remote high-temperature radiators in the wheel arches. In the Competition models, the system also includes an additional engine oil cooler and separate transmission oil cooler.

As with BMW M tradition, both the M3 and M4 feature a model-specific package of chassis braces and stiffeners. It also has adaptive M suspension with electronically-controlled shock absorbers as well and M-specific brakes. Standard specification also features forged M light-alloy wheels–in 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear. Tires are 275/35 ZR19 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear.

Both the M3 and M4 sends out a bolder statement in terms of styling with its large, vertical kidney grille together with the sculpted wheel arches with M “gills” and extended side sills. Both the sedan and coupe also benefit from a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic roof (for those who want a sunroof though, a traditional steel roof version is available as well). A rear spoiler and two pairs of large exhaust tailpipes, customary of M cars, is standard.

Inside, it gets electrically adjustable M sport seats and fine-grain Merino leather trim with extended features come as standard, with seat ventilation also available for the first time.

A standout highlight of the options list are the new M Carbon bucket seats with a structure-based design, which combine racing functionality with a lightweight construction. These innovative seats have integral head restraints which can be dismantled for track driving, an illuminated model badge and electric adjustment. Their race car-inspired structure also enables the use of multi-point racing seat belts.

M Drive Professional, which makes its debut on the new models, has been conceived specifically for track driving. It includes the innovative new M Traction Control, which allows the new integrated wheel slip limitation function of the DSC system to be adjusted (through 10 stages) to the driver’s personal preferences and needs.

The 2021 BMW M3 and M4 is slated to hit the track in BMW’s home country of Germany first with customer deliveries slated to start by March 2021. Other markets will also get them in the first quarter of next year.