When an automaker reveals a new model, they go to great lengths to present it in the best possible light. It’s Marketing 101, with perfectly framed press shots and curated releases, though it’s difficult to judge just how a car looks from photos alone. That’s why it’s essential to see how it looks among its contemporaries, and a new batch of photos shows us how the new 2021 BMW M3 and its snout looks out on the road.

Surprisingly, the M3’s design looks softer in the real world. However, we expect those who despise the BMW’s large grille and creased front fascia can only see those design features. While BMW may have revealed the M3 earlier this week, there’s a good chance the automaker is continuing to fine-tune the model before production starts – the model isn’t expected to hit UK dealers until March 2021.

Gallery: 2021 BMW M3 Spy Photos

Behind that prominent grille is a potent engine – BMW’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine. In the standard M3, which isn't coming to the UK, it makes 473 bhp (352 kilowatts) and 406 pound-feet (550 Newton-metres) of torque. The M3 Competition, which indeed is coming to the UK, uses the same mill, but it makes 503 bhp (375 kW) and 479 lb-ft (649 Nm) of torque. A six-speed manual is standard for the M3, while an eight-speed automatic is the only gearbox available for the Comp model.

BMW’s wild exterior design also influenced the inside with bright colours and heavily bolstered seats available for only the boldest of BMW owners. When the new model arrives in the UK, the M3 Competition will begin at £74,755.