BMW M3 Summary
For nearly 40 years, the BMW M3 has been a top choice for those who want the practicality of a family sedan blended with the excitement of a sports car. Through seven generations, the legendary engineers at BMW have continuously developed and improved the performance of the M3, leading to the latest models’ high-output engine and the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic transmission.
In later models, the user-friendly entertainment package, cutting-edge safety features and well-designed interior ensure a fun, safe and comfortable ride.
BMW M3 Safety
The BMW M3 scores high in annual safety rankings. Since the 2000 models, it has had airbags for front and side protection, and front and rear head airbags were added in the third generation. In later models, from 2018, optional safety features include:
- Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control to assist the driver in the event of a skid
- Blind-Spot Monitoring to make lane changes safer
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist to keep the car in the middle of its own lane
BMW M3 Interior
All seven generations come with air conditioning and power windows as standard equipment and power heated seats as an option for higher trim levels. Later models are known for its well-designed interior and good visibility all around for the driver, due to the practical seat position and window design.
Also notable on later models is effective sound dampening, although some have pointed out that Active Sound, which is the computer-generated fake engine sound, is unnecessary and detracts from the quality soundproofing.
BMW M3 Technology
BMW designed the M3 to be a blend of practicality and high performance, and the technology follows that prescription. The latest models—2018 and 2019—sport an impressive list of easy-to-use tech features. Depending on the model and trim chosen, these include:
- Rear-view camera
- Side-view and top-view park assist cameras (not standard, but available)
- iDrive infotainment interface with 8.8-inch display screen
- Apple CarPlay phone integration
- Navigation system
- USB ports
- Premium Harman Kardon sound system
- Posted speed limit display, which lets you know the current speed limit
On older models, you'll have to add on a package to get some of the more high-tech features. For instance, the Premium Package on the 2011 offers power-folding auto-dimming mirrors and Bluetooth, while the Technology Package adds convenient features such as keyless ignition/entry and a voice navigation system.
BMW M3 Space
Throughout all generations, this car has been known to have a roomy cabin with ample headroom and legroom to seat four in comfort. Its 12 cubic feet trunk provides an average amount of cargo space for this class, and the rear seats fold down so you can carry longer loads. There are many small storage compartments around the cabin.
BMW M3 Comfort
It’s easy to tell by the firmness of the suspension and the quickness of its stopping and starting that the M3 was designed to be a high-performance sports sedan. Some drivers have said that the firm suspension in higher-performance trim levels can feel a little too stiff.
For the base model M3, engineers kept the family in mind by developing effective shock dampening in the suspension to flatten out the bumps and ensure a very comfortable ride. Overall, the BMW M3 offers a smooth, easy-handling driving experience.
