BMW M Division Considering M3 GT4 For Production

[LeMansX5]

Rumors that BMW might produce a version of its racing-minded M3 GT4 are true, according to the head of the automaker's M division.

Dr. Kay Segler, head of BMW's M Division and former chief at MINI, says it's a possibility that the company could authorize a limited run of the race-prepped M3, but says no decision has been made.

The M3 GT4 contested this year's 24 Hour Nurburgring endurance race. Offering the vehicle as a street would not only satisfies the hardest of hardcore enthusiasts, it meets Segler's goal of helping to promote more competition at the entry level of motorsports.

When asked about the possibility for a diesel M-car, Segler dismissed the idea as unrealistic until America embraces diesel more deeply, since the U.S. is a key market for building any business case for a luxury or performance car. This was despite Segler's recognition of the diesel engine's rise to prominence in the world of motorsports, especially endurance racing, in recent years.

The last morsel from the M Division chief relates to a proposed M Sport line of performance accessories. M Sport would allow BMW owners to customize their cars with performance capabilities, offering something not quite as motorsports-centric as the M lineup. Whether this will see production reality will likely depend on the market as much as anything though, especially in the U.S.

Keep your eyes peeled for more BMW information in the coming days, including our first impressions of the BMW X6 M.

Source: BMW M Division Considering M3 GT4 For Production, Diesels Not On The List - The Car Connection

[FSETH]

That would be sweet if they actually do it. Wish I could afford a street/track toy like that.