BMW M3 (2014 – 2021) Review
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
BMW M3 (2014 – 2021) Verdict
Twin turbo 3.0-litre straight six engine with 430PS. More powerful, quicker yet more economical than before. Impressively forgiving ride. Phenomenal grip in the dry.
Lacks the V8 sound of the previous M3.
Find out more about the BMW M3 (2014 – 2021)
When it comes to high performance saloons, one name has always led the way - the BMW M3. First launched in the mid-1980s, it has since built up a reputation as one of the quickest and finest handling cars around. For this the fifth generation M3 there are some key changes the most significant of which is the change to a turbocharged engine.
So out goes the normally aspirated V8 of the previous M3 to be replaced by a much more economical 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine. It may be smaller in size but thanks to twin turbochargers it has 431PS on tap. However the big increase comes in torque which is now 550Nm and available across a wider range. In comparison the previous V8-powered M3 had 400Nm of torque and 420PS.
It doesn't quite have the character or sound of the old V8 engine but it certainly has the performance you'd expect from an M3. Acceleration from 0-62mph is just 4.3 seconds while choosing the optional M DCT automatic drops this to 4.1 seconds.
That's a significant improvement over the 4.9 seconds of the outgoing M3 yet the new engine is also more efficient with claimed economy of 32.1mpg on manual models. That's helped by the fact the new model is 80kg lighter thanks to more lightweight materials and a carbonfibre reinforced plastic roof. In fact compared to a standard 3 Series, only the doors, headlights and windscreen are carried over.
The standard six-speed manual uses new carbon friction linings for better shifts and now automatically blips the throttle on downshifts, previously a feature only available on the M DCT gearbox. The double clutch M DCT has a launch control function which helps reduce the 0-62mph time along with various Drivelogic modes which give the driver the option of changing the driving characteristics from a comfort and economy to an even sportier set-up.
On the road the M3 is incredibly sedate and easy to drive at low speeds, meaning it's a car that you can live with everyday. Yet it still feels every inch the high performance saloon when you plant the accelerator and get it onto a demanding, twisting road. There's incredible grip, superb traction thanks to a limited-slip differential and minimal body roll.
Reviews for BMW M3 (2014 – 2021)'s top 3 rivals
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
BMW M3 (2014 – 2021) handling and engines
- Engines range from 3.0 to 3.0 CS
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 17–31 mpg
This generation M3 sees BMW reverting to a six-cylinder engine, rather than the 4.0-litre V8 of the previous M3. But to keep power up to the levels expected, the high-revving 3.0-litre unit is fitted with twin turbochargers which boost power up to 431PS. The turbo system itself is a brand new unit designed specifically for the M3 and it helps boost the all important torque figure significantly, up to 550Nm.
Where this really makes a difference is at higher speeds, so from 50mph to 70mph takes just 3.5 seconds and it's at this pace where the M3 feels more responsive than before. The torque is available from just 1850rpm while at the top of the rev range, this torque remains constant, so when you're changing gear at the red line, there's always the maximum power available.
Sadly the engine doesn't have the character of the old V8 and seems quite muted from behind the wheel. There's a nice rasp from the exhausts but again you don't really get to enjoy that from inside the car. It seems BMW has tried to give the M3 a similar sound to before but it can often sound odd and quite buzzy rather than thunderous.
That said, there's certainly no shortage of performance with a 0-62mph time of just 4.3 seconds with the standard six-speed manual gearbox. Opting for the twin clutch M DCT gearbox sees this time drop to 4.1 seconds and also includes a launch control function for blisteringly quick starts from a standstill. There are three different setting for the M DCT gearbox so you can choose between smoother shifts or quicker and more aggressive changes, the latter giving the M3 a really purposeful feel when driven fast.
Where the adoption of a smaller turbocharged engine really makes sense is fuel economy. The M3 now averages a claimed 32.1mpg (34.0mpg with the M DCT gearbox) compared to 23mpg. CO2 is also significantly reduced, down to 194g/km.
Adaptive M suspension comes as standard and has Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes so you can alter the stiffness depending on the road conditions. The M3 comes with a newly developed electromechanical steering set-up, the type which can often mean a loss of steering feel. Thankfully, the system in the BMW is perfectly set-up giving you good weight and decent feedback.
As with the suspension, you can also change the steering across the same three settings. Add this to the various engine modes plus the gearbox settings and things can get a little confusing. Luckily there are two M buttons on the steering wheel which you can individually configure so that you only have to press one button to put the M3 into its most sportiest mode.
At low speeds the M3 is amazingly sedate and easy to drive. Despite all the performance it's a car you could easily live with day to day. Much of that is down to the amazingly forgiving suspension which means impressive ride quality and comfort. Not something you'd expect from an M3. Yet the suspension is still stiff enough to ensure there's minimal body roll through tight corners.
And it's on tight and demanding roads where the M3 really comes alive. You don't have to drive it as quick as the previous M3 to enjoy it, helped by the increase in torque, yet it's still sublime through corners with immense grip and perfect balance. As ever, the M3 is rear-wheel drive - BMW may produce four-wheel drive xDrive version of the 3 Series but the M3 will remain resolutely rear-wheel drive - yet out of slow corners there is superb traction thanks to the Active M Differential.
It's an amazingly agile car helped by its light weight. Thanks to the use of a carbon fibre roof, previously reserved for the M3 Coupe, aluminium front wings and bonnet plus the use of carbon fibre in elements like the engine strut brace and driveshaft, the M3 weighs just 1497kg. To put that into context a C63 AMG tips the scales at 1730kg. It also means that this is the first M3 that has actually been lighter than its predecessor.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0 | 31–32 mpg | 4.2–4.3 s | 204 g/km |
| 3.0 Competition Pack | 32 mpg | - | 204 g/km |
| 3.0 Competition Pack DCT | 34 mpg | - | 194 g/km |
| 3.0 CS | 33 mpg | 3.9 s | 198 g/km |
| 3.0 DCT | 34 mpg | 4.0–4.1 s | 194 g/km |
Real MPG average for the BMW M3 (2014 – 2021)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
70%
Real MPG
17–31 mpg
MPGs submitted
36
BMW M3 (2014 – 2021) interior
- Boot space is 480 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4671 mm |
| Width | 2037 mm |
| Height | 1424–1431 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2811–2812 mm |
The interior of the M3 builds on the high quality 3 Series cabin with some extra additions to help it stand out. The most noticeable is a different steering wheel, similar to the BMW 2 Series and 4 Series, but with triple-colour contrast stitching in the BMW M colours. There are also plenty of BMW M details including M branded door sill trims, gear lever, instruments and metallic shift paddles on M DCT models.
Other nice details include Anthracite headlining and bespoke front seats based on bucket seats with width adjustable side bolsters. These have been designed specifically for the M3 and M4 with superb lateral support but also good comfort for long journeys. Getting the ideal driving position is simple thanks to the low down position of the driver's seat plus they are also heated and electrically adjustable as standard.
The quality is everything we've come to expect from BMW with superb attention to detail and a high quality fit and finish. From the stitching on the leather to the quality of the plastics used and the feel of the switches, it's obvious this is an upmarket cabin. One neat option is the M Head-up Display which adds to the standard head-up display with extra info such as a neat rev counter and optimum shift indicator.
Standard equipment:
M3 comes with 19-inch M light alloy wheels, Adaptive M Suspension, front and rear parking sensors, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, electric exterior mirrors, high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and the full BMW Professional Media package with upgraded Bluetooth system.
BMW M3 (2014 – 2021) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4671 mm |
| Width | 2037 mm |
| Height | 1424–1431 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2811–2812 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1520–1635 kg |
| Boot Space | 480 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 15000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Run-flat tyres | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £56,955–£86,425 |
| Insurance Groups | 45–50 |
| Road Tax Bands | J–K |
| Official MPG | 31.0–34.0 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until November 2020
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 Competition Pack DCT LCI 4dr | £65,550 | 34.0 mpg | 4.0 s |
| 3.0 Competition Pack LCI 4dr | £62,905 | 31.0 mpg | 4.2 s |
| 3.0 DCT LCI 4dr | £62,550 | 34.0 mpg | 4.1 s |
| 3.0 LCI 4dr | £59,905 | 31.0 mpg | 4.3 s |
| CS 3.0 DCT LCI 4dr | £86,425 | 33.2 mpg | 3.9 s |
On sale until June 2017
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 30 Jahre DCT 4dr | £82,675 | 34.0 mpg | - |
| 3.0 4dr | £56,955 | 32.1 mpg | 4.3 s |
| 3.0 Competition Pack 4dr | £59,955 | 32.1 mpg | - |
| 3.0 Competition Pack DCT 4dr | £62,450 | 34.0 mpg | - |
| 3.0 DCT 4dr | £59,450 | 34.0 mpg | 4.1 s |
On sale until April 2017
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 30 Jahre DCT 4dr | £82,675 | 34.0 mpg | - |
On sale until August 2015
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| M3 431 Auto 4dr | £59,085 | 34.0 mpg | 4.1 s |
Model History
- December 2013: BMW unveils M3 Saloon
- June 2016: BMW M3 30 Jahre Special Edition launched
- November 2017: BMW M3 CS launched
December 2013
BMW unveils M3 Saloon
It's powered by a high-revving, 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology has been specifically developed for this purpose, and produces a maximum output of 431hp. Its peak torque of 550Nm is available across a very wide rev range starting at just 1850rpm.
The standard sprint from 0-62mph takes 4.3 seconds with manual transmission, or just 4.1 seconds with the optional M DCT, while the top speed is 155mph (electronically limited). The new powerplant also boasts excellent fuel economy: the combined consumption in the EU cycle is as high as 34mpg and CO2 emissions are as low as 194g/km.
To maximise dynamic ability and ensure excellent efficiency, a weight loss of over 80kgs has been achieved compared to a comparably equipped predecessor model. Specific weight-saving measures include the increased use of lightweight materials: both models now feature a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic roof.
The standard transmission specified is a six-speed manual gearbox which uses innovative new carbon friction linings in its synchroniser rings. The gearbox blips the throttle on downshifts - previously a feature reserved for the M Double Clutch Transmission - improving the smoothness of the driving experience and helping to enhance stability.
The optional transmission is the third-generation M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT). As well as changing gear automatically, in manual mode it enables ultra-fast gear changes with no interruption in the flow of power. The integrated Launch Control function ensures optimum sprinting performance off the line. In addition, the system allows for a range of extra features, including Stability Clutch Control, which opens the clutch when the car is understeering to bring it back into line, and also the selectable Drivelogic modes that give the BMW M3 more comfortable, more economy-focused or even sportier characteristics depending on driver choice.
The Active M Differential makes a considerable contribution to the dynamics. With further weight-savings thanks to hollow, and hence lighter, output shafts, the Active M Differential uses an electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential to optimise traction and directional stability.
The electromechanical steering system represents a new development from BMW M. The integrated M Servotronic function electronically adjusts the level of steering assistance according to the car’s speed. The system offers the driver three settings as standard, which can be selected at the touch of a button: COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes allow the level of steering assistance to be adapted to suit any given situation and the driver’s personal tastes.
The standard new BMW M Compound brakes boast impressive feel, outstanding stopping power and a high resistance to fade. Far lighter than conventional equivalents, they contribute to a substantial reduction in unsprung masses. Even lighter BMW M Carbon ceramic brakes can be specified as an option - gold callipers denote their fitment.
Standard equipment includes technical features such as Adaptive M suspension, 19-inch M light alloy wheels and front and rear PDC; comfort items such as the heated and electric BMW M seats and exterior-folding mirrors; aesthetic features such as High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and finally the full BMW Professional Media package with upgraded Bluetooth system.
The bespoke front seats take inspiration from the bucket seats fitted in racing cars, and feature a full-size single-piece back panel. This means the construction of the seats is very flat, while the high, width-adjustable side bolsters and low-set seat surface allow an ideal seating position and provide excellent support. Despite this, these BMW M seats also include electric adjustment and heating as standard. On the seat surface, the stitching, upholstery segmentation and perforation lend the seats a slim-fitting feel, whilst the BMW M logo on the seat is illuminated for the first time.
| Model | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-62mph (secs) | Top speed (mph) | Combined (mpg) | CO 2 emissions (g/km) |
| BMW M3 Saloon | 431 | 550 | 4.3 (4.1) | 155* (155*) | 32.1 (34.0) | 204 (194) |
June 2016
BMW M3 30 Jahre Special Edition launched
Limited in the UK to only 30 cars, the M3 30 Jahre Edition builds on the Competition Package which is available for the BMW M3. The Competition Package comprises an increase in engine output by 19PS to 450PS and a combined fuel consumption of 34mpg with 194 g/km CO2 emissions. A
lso included on this model is the Adaptive M suspension, which has been comprehensively aligned to the increased performance. Optimised features also include new springs, dampers and stabilisers, modified characteristic curves of the three modes COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ as well as a correspondingly modified standard Active M differential on the rear axle and Dynamic Stability Control feature (DSC).
| Model | Power Hp |
Torque Nm |
0 – 62mph Seconds |
Top Speed Mph |
Combined Mpg |
CO 2 Emissions g/km |
| M3 30 Jahre Edition | 450 | 550 | 4.0 | 155* | 34.0 | 194 |
This special edition model features a high standard specification including harman/kardon surround-sound system with a total of 16 speakers. In addition to the exclusive content this car it also features as standard such equipment as Adaptive LED Headlights, BMW M Carbon Ceramic braking system, BMW M Head-up display, BMW M Double-Clutch Transmission, Comfort Access, Surround View, Comfort Access, Advanced Parking Pack, Extended Storage and a Speed Limit Display.
Priced at £82,675 OTR, the BMW M3 30 Jahre Edition goes on sale in Summer 2016, this being exactly 30 years after the signing of the first contract for the purchase of a BMW M3 – the original version of the car having made its debut at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show.
November 2017
BMW M3 CS launched
Power for the latest special vehicle to come out of BMW M GmbH is from a six-cylinder in-line engine – a configuration of which has a long tradition at BMW – and one that ensures the absolute best performance in the new BMW M3 CS. Compared to the M3 with Competition Package, the maximum power has been increased by 10PS.
The maximum torque of 600Nm is about 10 per cent higher (M3 with Competition Package: 550Nm) and is available from 4,000rpm to 5,380rpm. The power output gives the BMW M3 CS performance on a par with supercars, with the sprint from zero to 62mph taking just 3.9 seconds. Thanks to the M Drivers Package, the maximum speed is limited to 174mph.
A standard unique feature for the CS are forged light-alloy wheels, finished in Matt Orbit Grey. The ten-spoke design is based on the wheels of the successful M4 racing cars from the German Touring Car Masters (DTM).
