The optional double-clutch gearbox features a 'smokey burnout' setting

Both cars will be mechanically identical – they'll share the same 3.0-litre, twin-turbo, inline-six engine, which will provide 425bhp and 405lb ft of torque. That not only makes it the most powerful engine ever to be placed in an M3, but also the M divison's smallest-capacity unit since the 2.3-litre of the E30 M3 was retired in 1991. It's also the first time that there will be no M3-badged two-door coupé.

Despite the inevitable move to forced induction, M purists will be relieved to hear that a six-speed manual remains the staple gearbox, although a seven-speed double-clutch Getrag 'box with paddle shifters will be an option – featuring launch control and a specific 'smokey burnout' setting for low-speed hooligan antics.

The M3 saloon and M4 coupé will make their official production debuts at the Detroit Motor Show in January, and will go on sale in the spring.