Roaring Through Brunei: The BMW E90 M3 Review

In 2008, BMW unleashed the E90 M3 alongside its E92 Coupe counterpart, creating a powerhouse duo. This review takes us back to a memorable Wednesday on April 24, 2013, when we had the privilege of taking the E90 M3 for a spin on the roads of Brunei.

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The E90 M3, designed as a saloon model, aimed to compete with rivals like the Audi RS4 Avant and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. This review explores this beast's performance, design, and overall experience on wheels.

Under the hood, the E90 M3 packs a 4.0 V8 engine, boasting 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm at 3,900rpm. The raw power accelerates the car from 0-100km/h in just under 5.0 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. However, this power comes at a cost, as the thirsty beast consumes an average of 12 litres per 100km.

With a fuel tank capacity of 63 litres, the E90 M3 demands attention to its fuel meter. Clocking in at approximately 12 litres per 100km, it emits around 285 grams of CO2 per km. Be ready for frequent pit stops, as this lion-hearted vehicle demands its share of fuel.

The moment the engine roars to life, it's an adrenaline-pumping experience akin to waking a sleeping lion. After a brief warm-up, the engine settles into a calm rhythm, ready to unleash its power on the road.

Contrary to expectations, the M3 doesn't forcefully push you into the seat upon acceleration. Instead, it growls like a threatened lion. Mastering the 7-speed M-DCT (Double Clutch Transmission) is a learning curve that offers automatic or semi-automatic operation via paddle shifts. The sales representative recommends it over the 6-speed manual transmission for its ease of use.

Entering the cockpit, the seats hug and wrap around, providing a comfortable position for cruising and racing. Despite Brunei's lack of proper racing venues, the E90 M3 offers a snug and enjoyable driving experience.

According to the review, rear passengers, around 5ft 7 in height, found the back seat comfortable with enough legroom and ample headroom. Even during aggressive acceleration, the backseat passenger experienced no discomfort, capturing thrilling moments at 140km/h.

The steering leaves a lasting impression with its firm and responsive feel. The car effortlessly follows the driver's direction, providing instant feedback and creating a seamless connection between the driver and the machine.

The BMW E90 M3 is not just a car; it's an experience. From its powerful engine to the comfortable cockpit and exhilarating acceleration, this beast offers a thrilling ride on Brunei's roads. Despite its thirst for fuel, the E90 M3 establishes itself as a true contender in the luxury performance sedan category.