The BMW M3 is a high-performance car with a powerful twin-turbo straight-six engine that delivers 473 horsepower through a six-speed manual transmission to the rear tires. The M3 Competition model, available with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, boasts an even more impressive 503 horsepower. Despite its impressive power, the M3 is capable of driving at law-abiding speeds without sacrificing its performance. While the Cadillac CT4-V and Alfa Romeo Giulia may feel more refined and less edgy at times, all three brands’ super sedans are excellent choices. For an even more exceptional experience, consider the new-for-2024 M3 CS. The car is estimated to be 75 pounds lighter than the base M3 and has 543 horsepower with all-wheel drive.
2024 BMW M3, What’s New
The 2024 BMW M3 is now even more powerful with the introduction of the limited-edition M3 CS model. With a horsepower increase from 503 to 543, the M3 CS is sure to impress. The use of lightweight materials has resulted in an estimated 75-pound weight reduction from the standard M3. The eight-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive ensures quick and powerful launches. The M3 CS has its own suspension tuning and comes with red or black brake calipers behind the M light-alloy wheels. Additionally, the M3 CS features an exclusive M Dynamic Mode, which offers an aggressive track driving experience. Equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 track-focused tyres, which are available at no extra cost, this is expected to be the fastest M3 we have tested.
It is unfortunate that the more powerful M3 Competition is only available with an automatic transmission. The six-speed manual on the base version is highly satisfying. While we understand the appeal of the M3 Comp, with its extra power and available all-wheel drive , we prefer the manual version, which also provides a better ride. In addition to subjective exterior and interior styling choices, we recommend selecting the M Drive Professional package, which includes an onboard drift analyzer and lap timer, and the M Driver’s package, which unlocks a higher top speed and includes a high-performance driving class.
2024 BMW M3 Engine & Performance
Like the new M4 coupe, the M3 sedan is equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine. The standard version delivers 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels, and is available only with a six-speed manual transmission. The M3 Competition model’s engine is even more potent, producing 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, but is only available with the eight-speed automatic transmission. The M3 Comp is equipped with rear-wheel drive as standard, but it can also be fitted with an all-wheel-drive system that includes a rear-drive mode. The most powerful version of this hyper-3-series model is the M3 CS, which boasts 543 horsepower. The CS is all-wheel drive and comes exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It is built with many carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic components, which makes it 39 pounds lighter than the M3 Competition xDrive, but 310 pounds heavier than the M4 CSL coupe. Each M3 model includes adaptive dampers and an adjustable brake pedal. The sedan can also be equipped with carbon-ceramic brakes, which have gold-painted calipers. During our test drive of the standard M3 and the Competition variant, we observed their ability to perform drifts, which were further enhanced by the optional M Drift Analyzer (included in the M Drive professional package). We enjoyed the satisfying shifts of the manual gearbox and were pleased with the engine’s tenacious acceleration. However, compared to the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, the M3 doesn’t immerse the driver as much.
2024 BMW M3 Fuel & Economy
The M3 sedan has a fuel efficiency rating of up to 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The addition of all-wheel drive reduces its highway estimate to 22 mpg. However, during our extensive testing regimen, the M3 sedan exceeded its EPA estimate and achieved an impressive 32 mpg on the highway. The M3 CS, with its 543-hp engine, achieved a highway rating of 30 mpg during our testing. For further details on the M3’s fuel economy, please refer to the relevant information.
2024 BMW M3 Interior & Comfort
The M3 interior is similar to the regular 3-series, with unique ‘M’ badging and distinct trim details. It has the same design, passenger space, and outward visibility as its counterpart. However, the M3 exceeds the 3-series in terms of interior materials and build quality. While M cars are known for their performance, the language used here is neutral and free from personal bias. It features more carbon fiber and microsuede accents for a sportier look. The driver is presented with a large curved digital gauge cluster that can switch to M View during sportier drive modes. These modes can be activated using the prominent red buttons on the M3’s steering wheel. When switched to M View, a shift indicator is added and the regular tachometer is replaced with an easier-to-read one. The car features lightweight front seats that are heavily bolstered, providing excellent support without compromising on comfort. However, extended road trips may still cause some discomfort.
2024 BMW M3 Infotainment
The M3’s infotainment system features a long, curved touchscreen display that starts behind the steering wheel and extends across most of the dashboard. The iDrive 8 infotainment interface also includes a rotary knob and buttons on the center console for those who prefer not to use the touchscreen. The M3 provides various charging ports and a range of standard and optional features. Fortunately, BMW no longer requires a paid subscription for Apple CarPlay and has also adopted Android Auto. Both come standard with a Harman/Kardon sound system and a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio. The system can be equipped with gesture controls, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless charging pad.
2024 BMW M3 Specs
Engine: | an inline-6 with twin-turbocharging, intercooling, and direct fuel injection. It has an aluminum block and head, and a displacement of 183 in3 (2993 cm3). Power: 503 horsepower at 6250 rpm. Torque: 479 pound-feet at 2750 rpm. |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
Dimensions | Wheelbase: 112.5 in Length: 189.1 in Width: 74.3 in Height: 56.5 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/43 ft3 Trunk Volume: 13 ft3 Curb Weight: 3929 lb |
Chassis | Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.7-in vented, cross-drilled carbon-ceramic disc/15.0-in vented, cross-drilled carbon-ceramic disc Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 F: 275/35ZR-19 (100Y) Extra Load DT ★ R: 285/30ZR-20 (99Y) Extra Load DT ★ |