ONLY weeks after launching the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and BMW M4 Competition Coupe in the UK, BMW is set to add another two variants to the model line-up by offering the M xDrive all-wheel drive system for the high-performance sports cars in the premium midsize segment for the first time.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupe M xDrive take the exclusive M feeling to an even higher level with improvements in traction, handling stability and agility enabing both models to reach 62mph from standstill in only 3.5 seconds - 0.4 seconds quicker than their rear-wheel drive counterparts.

Power from the 510hp straight-six engine fitted in the new models is delivered via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic with the M-specific all-wheel drive system dividing it between the front and rear wheels as required.

The all-wheel drive system has a rear-biased setup in classic M style. This system allows the driver to experience even more of the hallmark M performance characteristics reflected, among other things, in even quicker acceleration.

Prices for the M3 Competition Saloon M xDrive start from £77,015 and the M4 costs from £78,315.

Production is due to start in the summer with the first cars on the road later in the year.