U.S. won’t get the 2011 BMW M3 GTS… here’s why

February 2, 2010 Omar Rana 2011, BMW M3, BMW M3 GTS, Coupes, Sports Cars, Supercars

When BMW unveiled the 2011 BMW M3 GTS in November 2009, it made it clear that the special-edition model will not make it to the United States. Wondering why? Well, the folks at BimmerFile sat down with M Brand Manager Larry Koch to ask him why. His response:

When I first started discussing the GTS with M in Garching [Munich], I knew it could be a hit in the US, albeit most likely a short-lived hit given such a high price [110,000 Euros before US homologation]. However, when taking a closer look, we realized the car does not pass any EPA or federal safety standards. Those are two big catches for importing a new BMW, even in small volumes. Modifying the GTS to make it US-compliant would be a very costly affair because the car lacks airbags, proper DOT seatbelts, proper bumper height, etc. And those are just the safety items. Keep in mind the 4.4 liter engine is not homologated for the US which would require more than a simple set of racing catalysts [as the car is currently equipped].

It’s sad. We know.

Refresher: Weighing in at 3,285 pounds (the standard BMW M3 coupe weighs 3,704 pounds), the 2011 BMW M3 GTS is powered by a 4.4L V8 making 450-hp. Power is transmitted to the wheels through a 7-speed M DKG Drivelogic gearbox.