HOW can a compact sedan evoke deep desire? Is it possible for a 320i-lookalike to seduce? The simple answer is: yes, if it's an M3.

At first glance, the fourth-generation M3 may appear to be a generic version of BMW's entry-level sedan. But look more closely and you will realise that instead of ubiquitous four-cylinder blandness, this is a seriously accomplished alternative.

The M3 sedan from BMW's motorsport division arrived here last month and is the second body style after the M3 coupe, which has been in Singapore since last November. The saloon has the same visual cues as the coupe, like the slimmer headlamps, massive 'power dome' bonnet bulge and 'side gill' air intakes on the front fenders. But at the back, the boot lid and tail lamps are taken straight from the 3 Series sedan, although with the addition of two purposeful pairs of exhaust pipes.

The M3 saloon's body is largely similar to that of a conventional 3 Series, which means it lacks the M3 coupe's carbon fibre reinforced plastic roof and has its price tag cut by $18,000. But both have a four-litre V8 engine driving the rear wheels.

The saloon's performance is hardly understated even if the four doors make it a little more discreet. The 420 horses may even encourage rarely exhibited driver behaviour.

For example, the exhaust growl has a delightful spit that makes you want to drive around with the windows down so you can hear it more clearly (there is no noticeable V8 burble though). The precision of the short throw six-speed manual transmission also makes you want to shift gears for no apparent reason. And the elasticity of the V8 power plant keeps inviting you to blip the throttle just so you can engage in unnecessary spurts of acceleration.

Where the third-generation M3, with its straight-six 3.2-litre engine, felt more hyperactive and much more intense, the new M3 comes across as more refined. It also feels like it has more useable power than the old M3, which enjoyed being revved harder. But it is still very fast. In fact, acceleration from zero to 100 kmh has been improved from 5.2 seconds in the old M3 to 4.9 seconds now (it's 4.8 in the coupe).

Despite the increase in pace, the M3 remains a confident drive. It is stable and reassuring at speed, with steering that is accurate and well-weighted. It has a solidness seemingly hewn from rock and is unflappable going over irregular surfaces fast.

For enhanced driver involvement, it is possible to adjust the steering's level of power assistance as well as choose from three suspension settings with the EDC or Electronic Damper Control. There is also a 'Power' button that increases the throttle response.

Yet, with all these options in their highest setting, the M3 is hardly uncomfortable, which goes to show how grown-up it has become. With the arrival of a seven-speed double clutch transmission later this year, the transition to automotive adulthood should be complete.

Still, it is difficult not to wax lyrical about the BMW M3. It manages to stir feelings of yearning more commonly experienced when viewing a sexy Italian exoticar.

Perhaps it's the combination of pace and space, of strength and subtlety that is attractive. One thing is for sure, the M3 Saloon is a very special car.

This article was first published in The Business Times on Apr 12, 2008.