2024 BMW M3 Review, Pricing, and Specs

$75,295

M3 competition

$79,595

M3 CS

$119,695

It’s a shame the more powerful M3 Competition is only offered with an automatic transmission because the six-speed manual on the base version is very satisfying. We understand why some people would gravitate to the M3 Comp–its extra power and available all-wheel drive ($4100 extra) for starters–but we prefer the manual—which also rides better. Apart from the subjective choice of exterior and interior styling, we recommend that you choose the M Drive Professional package (with onboard drift analyzer and lap timer) and the M Driver package (unlocks a higher top speed and includes a high-performance driving class).

Engine, Transmission and Performance

Just like the M4 coupe, the M3 sedan features a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six. The regular version sends 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. A six-speed manual is the only transmission offered. The M3 Competition’s engine is more powerful, generating 503 horses and 479 pound-feet, but it’s only offered with an eight-speed automatic. The M3 Comp comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but it’s also available with an all-wheel drive system that includes a rear-wheel drive mode. The limited production M3 CS increases power to 543 with 479 pound-feet of torque. Every M3 also has adaptive dampers and adjustable brake pedal feel. The sedan can be equipped with stronger carbon ceramic brakes, which feature cool gold-painted calipers. we first drive of the regular M3 and the Competition variant show off their ability to do some creepy drifting, which is encouraged by the optional M Drift Analyzer (part of the M Drive professional package). We also fell in love with the manual gearbox’s satisfying shifts, and we were also pleased with the engine’s steady acceleration. However, when compared to the greedy Alfa Romeo Giulia QuadrifoglioThe M3 isn’t exactly an immersive, connected-to-the-car driving experience.

Real World Fuel Economy and MPG

The M3 sedan is rated at up to 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Adding all-wheel drive drops its highway estimate to 22 mpg. Real-world highway fuel economy proved impressive, beating its EPA estimate by earning 32 mpg on our highway test loop—which is part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information on the M3’s fuel economy, visit the website EPA website.

Interior, Comfort and Cargo

Aside from the unique “M” badge and different trim details, the interior of the M3 is essentially the same as in the regular 3 series. This means the M3 has the same design, passenger space and outward visibility as its more pedestrian counterpart. While M cars are known for better performance, they also meet or exceed the top 3 series in terms of interior materials and build quality. Not surprisingly, the M3 has more carbon fiber and microsuede accents for a racier aesthetic. The driver faces a large curved digital gauge cluster that will switch to M View in sportier driving modes; it’s activated via a prominent red button on the M3’s fat steering wheel. Switching to M View adds a shift indicator and replaces the regular tachometer with an easier-to-read one. A set of very supportive and lightweight front seats is available (standard on the Competition) and provides exceptional support without sacrificing much comfort, although that may not be true on long road trips.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The M3’s infotainment system runs through a 12.3-inch touchscreen that is manipulated primarily through rotary knobs and buttons on the center console. The system has multiple charging ports and a selection of standard and optional features. Alhamdulillah, BMW no longer requires a paid subscription for Apple CarPlay and finally have used Android Auto. Both are standard along with a Harman/Kardon sound system and a year’s subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio. The system can be optioned with gesture control, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot and a wireless charging pad.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

While driver involvement is BMW’s top priority with its M cars, the sedan has a list of standard and options. driver assistance technology.

For more information on M3 crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website. Key safety features include:

• Standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
• Standard lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
• Adaptive cruise control is available

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW includes a limited warranty and a powertrain that’s in line with rivals like Audi and Mercedes-AMG. It also provides longer free scheduled maintenance than the alternative, however, it is still shorter than what Jaguar provides.

• The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Free maintenance covered for three years or 36,000 miles

More Features and Specifications