Finally the first test drive review videos of the 2015 BMW M3 are in, and here we have two of the very best ones from either sides of the Atlantic here. In these videos you get to see the new M3 being thrashed on the Mid-Ohio race track by Justin Bell, and you will also see it being thrashed – a lot harder, surprisingly – on public roads in Europe by Steve Sutcliffe.

Along the way the reviewers try to work out if the 2015 BMW M3 really lives up to all the hype:

The new M3 and M4 are both lighter than their predecessors, and boast more power as well. They feature a new turbocharged in-line six with 430 horsepower, mated to either a manual or an MCT transmission.  The M chassis and suspension, and the aero kit, also play a major part in giving the car its unique handling characteristics.

If you are planning to buy a 2015 BMW M3, make sure you study the options list beforehand and spec up your car carefully. The test units you see in these videos are both fully loaded with stuff like carbon ceramic brakes and variable steering, which of course have a big effect on how they drive.