BMW M3: Price, Specs, Performance & Review
The BMW M3 is a compact luxury sport sedan with supercar-level acceleration, four doors, a usable rear seat, and a choice of rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive performance.
For 2027, the M3 range includes the manual-transmission M3 Sedan, the rear-wheel-drive M3 Competition Sedan, and the all-wheel-drive M3 Competition xDrive Sedan.
The regular M3 Sedan is the choice for drivers who want a manual transmission and classic rear-wheel-drive balance. The M3 Competition xDrive is the fastest version, with 523 horsepower and a BMW-estimated 0–60 mph time of 3.4 seconds.
For most shoppers, the rear-wheel-drive M3 Competition is the sweet spot. It has more power than the standard M3, costs less than the xDrive model, and remains focused on driving enjoyment.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.9/10
WheelPedia’s score is an editorial assessment based on current specifications, ownership factors, safety equipment, pricing, and class context.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.5/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and ownership | 7.8/10 | 15% |
| Performance and driving | 9.8/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and practicality | 8.7/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 7.1/10 | 15% |
| Features and technology | 8.8/10 | 10% |
| Price and value | 8.3/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.9/10 | — |
Read How We Rate Cars to see how WheelPedia calculates vehicle ratings.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $79,300 MSRP for the rear-wheel-drive M3 Sedan.
- Choice of 473-, 503-, or 523-hp twin-turbocharged inline-six engines.
- Standard six-speed manual transmission on the M3 Sedan.
- Eight-speed automatic transmission on Competition models.
- BMW estimates 0–60 mph in as little as 3.4 seconds.
- Rear-wheel drive is standard; M xDrive all-wheel drive is available.
- Up to 16 city / 23 highway mpg.
- Four-door sedan body with seating for five and a usable trunk.
- Available M Carbon bucket seats, carbon-fiber roof, and M Driver’s Package.
- Full BMW M model, not an M Performance model.
Key Specifications
| Specification | BMW M3 |
| Vehicle type | Compact luxury high-performance sedan |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline-six |
| Power output | 473–523 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive or M xDrive all-wheel drive |
| Fastest BMW-estimated 0–60 mph | 3.4 seconds |
| Top speed | 155 mph; higher with M Driver’s Package |
| Fuel economy | Up to 16 city / 23 highway mpg |
| Cargo capacity | About 13 cu. ft. |
| Fuel requirement | Premium unleaded gasoline |
Expert Tip:
The M3 Competition is the best overall choice. It adds useful power over the manual M3 without the price and extra weight of the all-wheel-drive Competition xDrive.
About the BMW M3
The M3 is BMW M’s high-performance version of the 3 Series Sedan. It is larger and more practical than the BMW M2, but it uses the same basic formula: a twin-turbo inline-six, M-specific chassis tuning, strong brakes, and performance-focused suspension hardware.
Unlike a two-seat sports car, the M3 can carry passengers, handle commuting, and take on road trips. It is still a serious performance car, though. The ride is firmer than a normal 3 Series, premium fuel is required, and tires, brakes, and insurance can be expensive.
The M3 is a strong fit for buyers who want one car that can work as a fast daily driver, family sedan, and occasional track-day vehicle.
Price and Trims
These are current US starting MSRPs for the 2027 BMW M3 lineup. Prices exclude destination, taxes, title, registration, dealer fees, accessories, and options.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Drivetrain | Transmission | Power | BMW-Estimated 0–60 mph | Best For |
| M3 Sedan | $79,300 | RWD | 6-speed manual | 473 hp | 4.1 sec | Manual-transmission enthusiasts |
| M3 Competition Sedan | $83,500 | RWD | 8-speed automatic | 503 hp | 3.8 sec | Best overall balance |
| M3 Competition xDrive Sedan | $88,600 | AWD | 8-speed automatic | 523 hp | 3.4 sec | Maximum acceleration and all-weather traction |
The M3 Sedan is the enthusiast choice. It is the only M3 with a six-speed manual and gives buyers the most traditional BMW M driving experience.
The M3 Competition Sedan is the best all-around version. Its 503-hp engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel-drive layout deliver major performance without moving into the xDrive model’s higher price bracket.
The M3 Competition xDrive Sedan is the fastest M3. It is exceptionally quick from a stop and more confident in rain and snow, especially with proper tires. It is also the most expensive standard M3 sedan.
Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience
Every M3 uses BMW M’s 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six gasoline engine, but output and drivetrain vary by trim.
| Trim | Engine | Power | Transmission | Drivetrain | BMW-Estimated 0–60 mph |
| M3 Sedan | 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six | 473 hp | 6-speed manual | RWD | 4.1 sec |
| M3 Competition Sedan | 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six | 503 hp | 8-speed automatic | RWD | 3.8 sec |
| M3 Competition xDrive Sedan | 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six | 523 hp | 8-speed automatic | AWD | 3.4 sec |
The manual M3 is the slowest on paper, but it is far from slow. Its 473 hp is more than enough for rapid highway passing, spirited mountain-road driving, and track use.
The Competition models add power and the quick-shifting eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. The rear-wheel-drive Competition is particularly appealing because it combines a stronger engine with a traditional rear-drive setup.
The Competition xDrive uses BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It delivers hard launches and can vary how power is sent between the axles. Drivers can select different modes, including rear-drive-focused settings when conditions permit.
All M3 models have Adaptive M Suspension, M Servotronic steering, M-specific chassis tuning, and an Active M Differential. The car is remarkably capable, but its firm suspension and wide tires make it less comfortable on broken pavement than a standard BMW 3 Series.
BMW’s acceleration figures are manufacturer estimates. Actual results vary with tires, road conditions, weather, vehicle specification, and driving style.
Fuel Economy
The BMW M3 prioritizes performance, not fuel savings.
| Model | Fuel Economy |
| BMW M3 lineup | Up to 16 city / 23 highway mpg |
| Combined rating | Up to 19 mpg |
Premium unleaded gasoline is required. Fuel costs will be notably higher than for a regular 3 Series or a hybrid sedan.
Aggressive driving, stop-and-go traffic, cold weather, and track use can reduce fuel economy substantially. Buyers should also expect higher tire and brake costs than with a normal luxury sedan.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The M3’s interior combines a normal four-door sedan layout with M-specific seats, displays, steering-wheel controls, and performance settings.
Standard and available features include:
- BMW Curved Display
- BMW Operating System 8.5
- Digital instrument cluster
- Central infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Navigation
- BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
- BMW Digital Key
- My BMW app connectivity
- Heated front seats
- M Sport seats
- Available M Carbon bucket seats
- Available heated steering wheel
- Available ventilated front seats
- Available carbon-fiber interior trim
- Available head-up display
- Available Harman Kardon surround-sound system
- M Drive Professional
- M Laptimer
- M Traction Control
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available Parking Assistant
The front seats offer excellent support, especially during hard cornering. The standard M Sport seats are the better choice for many daily drivers. Available M Carbon bucket seats look more dramatic and provide tighter support, but their high side bolsters can make entry and exit less convenient.
The M3’s rear seat is much more useful than the rear seat in the M2. Adults can sit behind average-height front occupants, making the M3 a practical option for family use or carpooling.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | About 189.1 in. |
| Width | About 74.3 in. |
| Height | About 56.3 in. |
| Wheelbase | About 112.5 in. |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Cargo capacity | About 13 cu. ft. |
The M3 is compact enough for daily city driving but wide enough that tight parking spaces can be challenging. Its four doors and conventional sedan trunk make it much easier to live with than most sports cars.
The trunk is large enough for groceries, several carry-on bags, or a weekend trip for two. The rear seats add everyday flexibility, although the M3 does not have the cargo space of an SUV or hatchback.
Exterior Design
The M3 has a more aggressive appearance than the standard 3 Series. Its wider body, flared wheel arches, large front air openings, M-specific grille, and quad exhaust outlets make its performance purpose clear.
Exterior highlights include:
- M-specific front and rear bumpers
- Wide fenders and broader track width
- LED headlights and taillights
- Quad exhaust outlets
- M-specific side gills
- Standard high-performance wheels and tires
- Available M Carbon roof
- Available M Carbon Exterior Package
- Available M Shadowline Lights
- Available M Driver’s Package
- BMW Individual paint choices
The available carbon-fiber roof reduces weight at the highest part of the car and lowers the center of gravity. The M Carbon Exterior Package adds carbon-fiber mirror caps, a rear spoiler, front-bumper accents, and a rear diffuser insert.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and available safety and driver-assistance features include:
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Active Blind Spot Detection
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keeping Assistant
- Rearview camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Automatic high beams
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available Steering Assistant
- Available head-up display
- Available Parking Assistant
- Available Reversing Assistant
- Available emergency braking support while parking
BMW’s available driver-assistance systems can reduce workload in traffic, on highways, and while parking. They do not make the M3 self-driving. The driver remains responsible for monitoring traffic, road conditions, and vehicle operation.
Check the latest NHTSA safety database for current crash-test ratings, recalls, and safety notices for the exact model year before purchase.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The M3 is a complex performance sedan with turbochargers, advanced chassis hardware, high-performance tires, and sophisticated electronics. It can be a usable daily car, but it should not be purchased with mainstream-sedan ownership expectations.
The regular M3 Sedan with the manual transmission is the least complex version. The Competition xDrive adds all-wheel-drive hardware and additional power, which can increase long-term repair costs.
BMW’s US coverage includes:
| Coverage | Length |
| New vehicle limited warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Scheduled maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
| Rust perforation warranty | 12 years / unlimited miles |
For a used BMW M3, inspect service records, tire age, brake wear, suspension condition, accident history, warning lights, signs of aftermarket tuning, and evidence of repeated track use.
Read how to check a car’s accident history and use a VIN check before buying used.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Powerful twin-turbo inline-six engine
- Standard manual transmission on the base M3
- Extremely fast Competition xDrive model
- Practical four-door sedan body
- Usable rear-seat space
- Strong brakes and track-ready chassis
- Adaptive M Suspension
- Rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive choice
- High-quality technology and digital displays
- More practical than the M2 and M4 Coupe
What We Don’t Like
- High starting price
- Premium fuel required
- Low fuel economy
- Firm ride on rough roads
- Tires and brakes are costly
- Options increase the final price quickly
- Carbon bucket seats may be uncomfortable for daily use
- Long-term repairs can be expensive
- Not as cargo-friendly as a hatchback or SUV
- Large grille design will not suit every buyer
Competitors
The BMW M3 competes with:
- Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
- Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance
- Audi RS 5 Sportback
- Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
- Porsche Panamera
- Tesla Model 3 Performance
- BMW M4 Coupe
- BMW M2
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is the M3’s closest rival for buyers who want a manual transmission and a traditional performance-sedan experience.
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance offers plug-in-hybrid power, while the Tesla Model 3 Performance delivers quick acceleration and lower running costs but lacks the M3’s six-cylinder engine, manual option, and driving character.
The BMW M4 offers similar performance in a two-door coupe body. The BMW M2 is smaller and more playful, while the M3 is better for buyers who need four doors and real rear-seat space.
Related Content
For a smaller full-M coupe with a manual transmission and lower pricing, compare the BMW M2.
For nearly identical performance in a coupe body, see the BMW M4. For an electric BMW performance sedan, compare the BMW i4 Gran Coupe and BMW i5.
Before visiting a dealership, read how car financing works and consider arranging car loan preapproval.
Should You Buy the BMW M3?
Buy the BMW M3 if you want a high-performance sedan that can carry passengers, handle normal daily driving, and still feel capable on a racetrack or back road.
Choose the M3 Sedan if you want a six-speed manual transmission and traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW M character.
Choose the M3 Competition Sedan if you want the strongest overall balance of price, power, and driving enjoyment. It is the version most buyers should choose.
Choose the M3 Competition xDrive Sedan if maximum acceleration, wet-weather traction, and all-wheel-drive confidence matter more than price or a manual transmission.
Skip the M3 if you want low ownership costs, a soft ride, strong fuel economy, or a large cargo area. A standard luxury sedan, electric car, or performance SUV may be a better fit.
FAQs
How much does the BMW M3 cost?
The 2027 BMW M3 starts from $79,300 MSRP. The M3 Competition starts from $83,500, while the M3 Competition xDrive starts from $88,600. Destination, taxes, registration, dealer fees, packages, and options raise the final price.
How much horsepower does the BMW M3 have?
The M3 Sedan has 473 horsepower. The rear-wheel-drive M3 Competition has 503 horsepower, while the M3 Competition xDrive has 523 horsepower.
Is the BMW M3 available with a manual transmission?
Yes. The rear-wheel-drive BMW M3 Sedan comes with a six-speed manual transmission. Competition models use an eight-speed automatic.
Is the BMW M3 all-wheel drive?
The standard M3 and M3 Competition are rear-wheel drive. The M3 Competition xDrive has BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive.
How fast is the BMW M3?
BMW estimates the manual M3 reaches 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. The M3 Competition does it in 3.8 seconds, while the M3 Competition xDrive reaches 60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
Does the BMW M3 require premium gas?
Yes. BMW requires premium unleaded gasoline for the M3 lineup.
How fuel-efficient is the BMW M3?
The BMW M3 is rated for up to 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Actual fuel economy varies with driving style, traffic, weather, and vehicle configuration.
Does the BMW M3 have a back seat?
Yes. The M3 is a four-door sedan with rear seating for three passengers. It is more practical for passengers than the two-door BMW M2 or M4 Coupe.
How much trunk space does the BMW M3 have?
The BMW M3 has about 13 cubic feet of trunk space, which is useful for daily errands and weekend luggage.
Is the BMW M3 good in snow?
The M3 Competition xDrive is the best option for snow and wet conditions because it has all-wheel drive. Proper winter tires remain the most important upgrade for regular snow and ice driving.
Does the BMW M3 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are included.
Is the BMW M3 a full M model?
Yes. The M3 is a full BMW M model, not an M Performance model. It has an M-developed engine, transmission calibration, suspension, steering, braking hardware, and chassis systems.
Final Verdict
The BMW M3 is one of the best performance sedans available. It combines genuine track capability with four doors, a usable rear seat, a comfortable enough cabin for daily driving, and a powerful twin-turbocharged inline-six engine.
The M3 Competition Sedan is the best overall choice. It delivers serious speed and rear-wheel-drive character without reaching the price of the Competition xDrive.
The manual M3 is for buyers who value driver involvement above outright acceleration, while the Competition xDrive is the choice for buyers who want the fastest, most capable all-weather M3.
The M3 is expensive to buy and run, and its ride can be firm. But for buyers who want one of the most complete high-performance sedans on the market, it is an outstanding choice.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy ratings, safety ratings, recalls, and feature availability can change by model year, trim, options, and market.