BMW turn up the M3 style; A trio of cosmetically enhanced Coup Editions make what is already a special car even more desirable, writes VAL JESSOP.

Byline: VAL JESSOP

MONTE Carlo Blue raises the spectre of high-performance cars weaving along tight race circuits.

Dakar Yellow and Alpine White evoke a similar vision and indicate something special from the latest version of BMW's iconic M3 coup.

Together, these strikingly liveried M3s are intended to take on the likes of Porsche's 911 and Carrera.

They form the new M3 Coup Edition trio which, with a standard pounds 53,435 price tag, are at least pounds 2500 more expensive than the "straight" M3 coups.

That said, the special version I drove boasted a list of optional features that pushed the price up to a hefty pounds 60,000.

Mechanically, the M3 and the Coup Edition are the same - apart from the fact that the newcomer has a 10mm lower ride height.

The distinguishing features, apart from the livery, are unique visual enhancements to both the interior and exterior.

These cosmetic tweaks, which make the Coup Edition even more desirable than the standard M3, include a dark-coloured kidney grille, side vents, bonnet vents and twin exhaust tailpipes.

Black wing mirrors, with connecting supports in the car's body colour, also set the model apart - as do body-coloured stripes on the Novillo leather interior and classy contrast stitching on the front sports seats.

A chequered flag motif on the door sill plates underscores the racing pedigree of the M3, which has won more touring car titles than any other car. And the M3 Edition also features high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and 19in M double-spoke light-alloy wheels, which look terrific in the optional black gloss finish.

Powered by a four-litre V8, the car emits rousing overtures as the revs climb towards the red line.

The sheer muscle of the 420bhp M3 is rapidly but smoothly delivered, catapulting the coup to 62mph in just 4.8 seconds. With M double clutch transmission (an extra pounds 2535), as in the test car - it's even quicker at 4.6 seconds.

The seven-speed twin-clutch box is very fast and smooth and hikes up the driving fun significantly. It also enhances fuel economy and improves the CO2 emission figure.

The 155mph Edition features what BMW call their MDrive manager, which brings together personalised functions of the car.

The settings for the optional electronic damper control - normal, comfort or sport - three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control maps, plus the response rate of the Servotronic power steering, can be controlled with one button on the steering wheel.

And this means one push of the MDrive button transforms the M3 from a car you can drive to the shops into a track-day special.

Factfile:

Model: BMW M3 Coup Edition Engine: Four-litre V8 petrol Power: 420bhp 0-62mph: 4.8 or 4.6 seconds Fuel economy: 22.8 or 23.7mpg CO2 emissions: 295 or 285g/km Warranty: Three years/unlimited miles Price: From pounds 53,435 On sale: Now

CAPTION(S):

TOP CLASS: Double-spoke light-alloy wheels - which look especially great in the black gloss finish - the dark kidney grille and bonnet vents, and a stunning leather interior all help to set the Coup Edition apart from the standard M3