We are neutral on the 3-Series Sedan appearance. It is neither sleek nor eye-catching. But with the M3 Sedan, the intent of high performance can be seen throughout. From the large air vents and prominent powerdome at the front; four chromed tailpipes at the rear; to the increased rear track, M3's sense of purpose cannot be emphasized enough. Overall, we think BMW has succeeded in making M3 aggressive without going over the top. The M3 handling was legendary, and still is. The chassis is wonderfully balanced and extremely responsive. M3 never seems to run out of grip, or fail to contain any excessive body motion. Steering is accurate and provides ample feedback. We remain in awe how M3 steers and corners with unmatched precision, yet every movement is executed without drama. What impresses most is how M3 makes driving well seems so easy. In short, exhilarating to drive. Due to the sporty suspension setup, the ride is firm but importantly never uncomfortable. Road and wind noise insulation is excellent, making M3 a surprisingly accomplished long-distance cruiser. Deep V8 engine note, really, is more music than disturbance to us. The wide range of adjustments behind the wheel and for the sports seats easily allows drivers to find an ideal driving position. Controls, similar to 3-Series's, are simple to operate, even if the iDrive needs some accustoming. Similar to the 3-Series, the M3 cabin is classy and modern. The dashboard layout is simple and clear, aiding user ergonomics. Premium standards expected of a luxurious sedan can be seen in the first-class cabin materials and superb fit-and-finish. Solid construction with attention to details is apparent throughout the car. BMW models have excellent mechanical reliability reputation, and M3 should uphold it well. The previous M3 engine was outstanding, but we will not be missing it with the new 4.0-litre V8 capable of 420 bhp at a dizzy 8300 rpm, while the torque is a massive 400 Nm. Straight-line performance from standstill to 100 km/h takes only 4.7 seconds. With so much power on tap, M3 bursts forward effortlessly, regardless of the gear or speed. And even though the engine will gladly rev to 8300 rpm, the strong mid-range pull negates the need for that. The new seven-speed M double-clutch semi-automatic shifts smoother than the previous SMG transmission. You would not expect a supercar to offer much practicality. But M3 Sedan will prove you wrong with room similar to what 3-Series Sedan offers. Front two enjoy plenty of head- and leg-room, while those at the back get similar treatment, except for people over 1.8 metres who will find rear headroom to be limited. Although of an irregular shape, the boot size is generous. The useful through-loading system can boost loading capacity as when needed. Fuel economy is hardly what M3 buyers look at, still, it is good to know the official figure stands at a reasonable 8.4 km/litre. Maintenance will be costly, but typically long service intervals and good reliability should help. Road tax costs RM 6,625.50, but insurance will be much more punishing to the wallet. M3 should retain good residuals in the second-hand market with previous M3's sterling reputation. The Sedan may see more depreciation as compared to the Coupe, as this high-end performance segment usually favours coupes. M3 is asking for alot of money. Enough to bring in contenders like Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG which should be more expensive. Needless to say, M3 is outfitted with plenty of high-tech gadgets and equipments. More importantly, M3 handles in another league, and not to mention the fabulous V8 engine, which produces power and soundtrack equally well. What M3 Sedan lacks in style, it makes up with practicality over the Coupe. Either body style is an excellent choice in our books. You just need to afford it. M3 Sedan gets 18-inch M alloy wheels, cruise control, Park Distance Control (PDC), high-beam assist, adaptive headlights, rain sensors, xenon headlights, automatic climate control, M leather steering wheel, M seats, BMW navigation system with colour monitor and iDrive controller, and Hi-Fi system. All-inclusive safety kit includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which comprises anti-lock braking system and traction control, plus front, side and head airbags. Of course, you would not expect too much of M3 being environmentally-friendly. But to be fair, its carbon dioxide emission level of 285 g/km is not all that bad when the 4.0-litre engine capacity is taken into account. Compared to other automakers, BMW and Audi are both taking the lead in reducing the carbon footprint, or should we say tyre-print. However, owners are likely to drive M3 hard, leading to worse-off fuel economy and emission level than official figures suggest.