The award-winning BMW 3 Series is once again setting a new standard in performance cars. The 2020 BMW 3 Series promises 450 horsepower, rear-wheel drive and perhaps a rear-biased all-wheel-drive xDrive system that mirrors the new BMW M5.

According to Car Magazine, standard versions of the M3 will feature rear-wheel drive, while the more expensive M xDrive all-wheel-drive models will be equipped with the 2wd toggle mode included in the M5. BMW is also expected to introduce entry-level M3 and M4 models, known as the M3 and M4 Pure, which will have less power than the more upscale models – 454bhp rather than 474bhp – but will be the only M3/M4 models without standard eight-speed automatic transmission. The Pure will only be available with a manual gearbox because the company does not have a stick shift that can support more than 480lb ft – which the higher-grade versions will surpass.

Via Motor Trend

It has been reported that the improved performance will result from the use of a water injection system, similar to the one used in the M4 GTS, that facilitates reduced cylinder temperatures for more effective performance. The added weight of the water injection system is negligible and won’t impact BMW’s stated objective to make the model lighter than the 1585kg M3 CS. This is made possible by the enhanced basic structure of the new 3 Series and the use of carbon fiber parts.

The new M3, which is currently being tested on public roads in development form, will include the active technology from the 5 Series and 7 Series. The interior of the BMW 3 Series promises enhanced multimedia integration and smartly-placed aluminum accents for a more modern look.

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Car Magazine has also stated that the new M4 will sport a soft-top convertible option rather than the existing hard-top. In addition, a competition coupe planned for 2021 will include up to 503 hp. Ultimately, BMW is slated to present a M3 CS and a M3 CSL with several added enhancements, including 530 hp and 550 hp, respectively.

The new BMW M3 and M4 are projected to debut in September at the 2019 International Motor Show Germany, which will held in Frankfurt and begin on Thursday, September 12 and end on Sunday, September 22.