The recently launched BMW M3 saloon is to get a new look to match the rest of the 3 Series saloon range.

From October, the BMW M3 saloon will feature new rear lights with an L-shaped contour giving the saloon a sportier and more aggressive look.

The BMW M3 saloon’s new lights will be LEDs, while the bumper and boot lid will protrude more than on the current model.

BMW M3 car review

Inside, the BMW M3 saloon will get a new centrally-positioned chrome air-conditioning grille, a few revised switches and a new stop/start button.

From autumn, all BMW M3 variants will get crash-active headrests which are designed to reduce neck injuries in the result of a rear end collision.

View our BMW 3 Series slide show

Mechanically, the BMW M3 saloon remains the same, using a 4-litre V8 engine developing 420bhp and 295lb/ft of pulling.

M3 rival: Lexus IS F

Coupled with a seven-speed gearbox, the BMW M3 saloon accelerates from 0-62mph (100kph) in 4.9 seconds before reaching an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.

The BMW M3 saloon isn’t the only ‘M’ model to benefit from a bit of tinkering.

The 507bhp BMW M6 will get a ‘competition package’ which features a re-contoured bonnet, new alloy wheels and a lowered suspension to improve the super-coupe’s handling.

M3 rival: Mercedes C63 AMG

The BMW M5 and M6 also get new wing mirrors, while the 507bhp engines will, in the future, get BMW’s Efficient Dynamics technology which includes brake energy regeneration to help boost fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

Autumn will also see all BMW M models getting the latest generation iDrive control system which will allow easier use of the car’s entertainment, communication and navigation features.

The revised BMW M3 saloon will go on sale in October with prices starting from £49,900 – a one per cent increase over the current model.