Sitting alongside the new G80 BMW M3 and G82 M4 Competition rear-drive models will be these two new xDrive models, featuring all-wheel drive and a 0-62mph time of just 3.5 seconds.

Joining the range later in the year, the M3 Competition xDrive will start from £77,015 on the road, with the M4 xDrive starting from £78,315, marking a £2200 premium over the RWD models.

Powering the BMW M3 and M4 Competition xDrive models is the same S58-codenamed engine and ZF-soured automatic transmission, meaning power is 503bhp. Underneath, power is sent most of the time to the rear-wheels in normal driving mode, with power only being sent to the front when the rears begin to slip, this is actuated by an electronically controlled clutch within the transfer case. Usually, this would be sent to the ECU to communicate the message, but here, BMW employs an individual unit to speed up the process for maximum efficiency.

BMW M3 and M4 Competition xDrive

As with the BMW M5, those who want more angle will be pleased to know that both the G80 M3 and M4 xDrive models feature a 4WD Sport mode that allows more slip from the rear wheels before the fronts are called into action, while an entirely RWD mode is also available. Unlike the BMW M5, BMW’s traction and stability control systems will still be functional in RWD mode because the xDrive models share the same calibration as the RWD models.

The only other changes come in the form of new suspension struts up front with new geometry settings and revised steering ratio to account for the new front driveshafts.