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If you’re a fan of the BMW 3-series, the 2025 M3 takes the experience to the next level. It features a powerful twin-turbo inline-six engine that produces up to 523 horsepower, capable of hitting 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds.
The M3’s sharp handling and precise driving dynamics make it perfect for twisty roads while offering a choice between a six-speed manual with rear-wheel drive or an eight-speed automatic with all-wheel drive.
Both configurations deliver impressive performance, so you can’t go wrong. Competitors like the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing and Mercedes-AMG C63 offer similar excitement, making any of them a solid choice.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance of the 2025 BMW M3
All 2025 BMW M3 models are powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering impressive power across the range. The standard M3 offers 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, all sent to the rear wheels. A six-speed manual transmission is exclusive to this version, making it a highly engaging choice for driving enthusiasts.
The M3 Competition steps up the performance with 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While rear-wheel drive is standard, an all-wheel-drive version (xDrive) is available, bumping power output to 523 horsepower and offering a rear-drive mode for added versatility.
Every M3 model comes equipped with adaptive dampers and adjustable brake-pedal feel for customizable driving dynamics. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes with gold-painted calipers are available for even greater stopping power. The M Drift Analyzer, part of the M Drive Professional package, enhances the car’s drift capabilities, while the manual transmission offers satisfying shifts and strong acceleration.
Although the M3 delivers exceptional performance, it doesn’t offer quite the same driver engagement and steering feel as the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.
Model
Power (hp)
Torque (lb-ft)
Transmission
Drive
0-60 mph
M3
473
406
6-speed manual
Rear-wheel drive
3.9 seconds
M3 Competition
503
479
8-speed automatic
Rear-wheel drive
3.4 seconds
M3 Competition xDrive
523
479
8-speed automatic
All-wheel drive
2.8 seconds
Comfort and Interior
The interior of the M3 is similar to the standard 3-series, with the main differences being “M” badging and sportier trim details. It offers the same design, passenger space, and visibility as the regular model according to Car and Driver.
Despite its performance focus, the M3 matches or exceeds the high-end 3-series in terms of interior quality and materials, with added carbon fiber and microsuede accents for a sportier feel.
The driver gets a curved digital gauge cluster that switches to an “M View” in sportier driving modes, activated by red buttons on the steering wheel. This mode includes a shift indicator and a more readable tachometer.
The available lightweight, heavily bolstered front seats (standard on the Competition model) offer excellent support, although they may be less comfortable on long trips.
Comparison of the 2023 BMW M3 Competition xDrive vs. 2024 BMW M3 CS and 2025 M3: Specs and Performance
Specification
2023 BMW M3 Competition xDrive
2024 BMW M3 CS
2025 BMW M3
Vehicle Type
Front-engine, RWD/AWD, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Front-engine, RWD/AWD, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Front-engine, RWD/AWD, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Base Price
$83,595
$119,695
Starts at $77,175 (M3), $86,475 (M3 Competition xDrive)
As Tested Price
$109,695
$132,695
Varies with options
Engine
Twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct injection
Twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct injection
Twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct injection
Displacement
183 in³ (2993 cm³)
183 in³ (2993 cm³)
183 in³ (2993 cm³)
Power
503 hp @ 6250 rpm
543 hp @ 7200 rpm
473 hp (M3), 503 hp (M3 Competition), 523 hp (M3 Competition xDrive)
Torque
479 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
479 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
406 lb-ft (M3), 479 lb-ft (Competition models)
Transmission
8-speed automatic
8-speed automatic
6-speed manual (M3), 8-speed automatic (Competition models)
Suspension (Front/Rear)
Struts/Multilink
Struts/Multilink
Struts/Multilink
Brakes (Front/Rear)
15.7-in vented, cross-drilled carbon-ceramic discs / 15.0-in vented, cross-drilled carbon-ceramic discs
15.7-in vented, cross-drilled carbon-ceramic discs / 15.0-in vented, cross-drilled carbon-ceramic discs
Optional carbon-ceramic brakes available
Tires
Pirelli P Zero PZ4 (F: 275/35ZR-19, R: 285/30ZR-20)
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 (F: 275/35ZR-19, R: 285/30ZR-20)
Pirelli or Michelin performance tires
Wheelbase
112.5 in
112.5 in
112.5 in
Length
189.1 in
188.8 in
189.1 in
Width
74.3 in
75.5 in
74.3 in
Height
56.5 in
56.6 in
56.5 in
Passenger Volume
98 ft³
98 ft³
Similar (not officially listed)
Trunk Volume
13 ft³
13 ft³
13 ft³
Curb Weight
3929 lb
3890 lb
~3930 lb (varies with trim)
Performance
0-60 mph
2.8 sec
2.7 sec
2.8 sec (M3 Competition xDrive)
100 mph
7.0 sec
6.4 sec
N/A (likely similar)
1/4-Mile
11.0 sec @ 124 mph
10.7 sec @ 129 mph
N/A (likely similar)
Top Speed
156 mph (gov limited)
188 mph (claimed)
156 mph (gov limited), 180+ with M Driver’s Package
Braking (70-0 mph)
153 ft
146 ft
N/A (likely similar)
Braking (100-0 mph)
297 ft
295 ft
N/A (likely similar)
Roadholding (300-ft Skidpad)
1.03 g
1.06 g
N/A (likely similar)
Fuel Economy
Observed Fuel Economy
15 mpg
19 mpg
15-19 mpg (varies by model)
75-mph Highway Fuel Economy
27 mpg
30 mpg
32 mpg (test result)
75-mph Highway Range
420 miles
460 miles
N/A (similar)
EPA Fuel Economy (Combined/City/Highway)
18/16/22 mpg
18/15/22 mpg
16/23 mpg (RWD) or 16/22 mpg (AWD)
Safety and Warranty of the 2025 BMW M3
While the BMW M3 is primarily focused on performance, it also comes equipped with a variety of standard and optional driver-assistance features according to NHTSA.
Key Safety Features
- Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty Features
BMW offers competitive warranty and maintenance coverage for the M3, matching its rivals like Audi and Mercedes-AMG. It also provides longer complimentary scheduled maintenance compared to most competitors, though Jaguar’s offering is still more extensive.
- Limited warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance: 3 years or 36,000 miles
Infotainment and Connectivity
The M3’s infotainment is powered by the iDrive 8.5 system, displayed on a long, curved touchscreen that spans from behind the steering wheel to most of the dashboard as per J.D. Power.
In addition to the touchscreen, a rotary knob and physical buttons on the center console are available for those who prefer traditional controls.
The M3 comes with a variety of phone-charging ports and a range of standard and optional features.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, with no subscription required. Other standard features include a Harman/Kardon sound system and a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio. Optional upgrades include gesture controls, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless charging pad.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The 2025 BMW M3 is rated for up to 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for the rear-wheel-drive models. Opting for all-wheel drive (xDrive) lowers the highway rating slightly to 22 mpg. In real-world testing, the M3 exceeded expectations, achieving an impressive 32 mpg on the highway, well above its EPA rating according to their website.
Model
City (mpg)
Highway (mpg)
Real-World Highway (mpg)
M3 (RWD)
16
23
32
M3 Competition (RWD)
16
23
N/A
M3 Competition xDrive
16
22
N/A
0-60 MPH?
What Will The Price Be?
Pricing for the 2025 BMW M3 starts at $77,175 and goes up to $86,475, depending on the model and options you choose:
Model
Price
BMW M3
$77,175
BMW M3 Competition
$81,375
BMW M3 Competition xDrive
$86,475
While the M3 Competition offers more power and all-wheel drive, it’s only available with an automatic transmission. For driving enthusiasts, the base M3 with its six-speed manual transmission is likely the better choice, offering a more engaging driving experience.
It also provides the best ride quality in the lineup. If you’re looking to enhance the performance and track capabilities, the M Drive Professional package (featuring a drift analyzer and lap timer) and the M Driver’s package (which raises the top speed and includes a high-performance driving course) are worthwhile options to consider.
