(Wed 17 Feb 10)

BMW has created a Competition Package for Coupé versions of BMW M3. It includes revised electronic damper control (with a new Sport setting), a Dynamic Stability Control Plus system (which cuts in slightly later than standard to allow for more unbridled driving) new 19" light alloy wheels and a 10mm lower ride height. The Package costs £3315 and will go on sale on March 20.

On the same day, all M3s - including those with the semi-automatic M DCT transmission - will become available with Auto Start/Stop as standard. Combined fuel economy and CO2 emissions improve to 25.2mpg and 263g/km in the case of the M DCT-equipped saloon and Coupé. BMW notes that this is the first time it has been able to offer the system on cars with more than four cylinders of anything other than a six-speed manual gearbox.

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