Relentless acceleration; super-confident handling; muscular styling; rich interior with advanced technology
Fake engine noises
As well as some minor changes to the interior trim, the LED taillights have been revised and the navigation system is improved. The previously optional Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system is now standard, along with satellite radio and keyless entry/ignition. See the 2016 BMW M3 models for sale near you
The M3 is one of those cars every enthusiast should own at least once, and the latest generation's abilities are astounding. If you have the cash, take the plunge. It's an M3. Find a BMW M3 for sale
The 2016 BMW M3 ($64,195) comes in a single trim level with a wealth of standard features, including 18-inch wheels with performance tires, an aerodynamic body kit with flared fenders and a power dome hood, adjustable drive settings with custom presets, upgraded suspension components, a torque-vectoring rear differential, automatic wipers, adaptive xenon headlights, a sport exhaust system with quad tail pipes, keyless entry/ignition, auto-dimming mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power heated front sport seats with adjustable side bolsters (and a backlit M logo on the backrests), driver memory functions, cloth/leather upholstery and carbon-fiber interior trim.
It also comes with Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, the iDrive infotainment system with navigation, an 8.8-in widescreen display, voice controls, smartphone app integration and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with USB input, satellite radio and HD Radio.
Most options are grouped into packages. The pricey Executive package includes retractable headlight washers, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, parking sensors and a rearview camera.
A Driver Assistance Plus package adds side-view and top-view cameras, a blind spot monitoring system, lane-departure warning and a forward-collision mitigation system with automatic emergency braking.
The Lighting package contributes adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams.
The new-for-2016 Competition package is a bigger deal. It hikes engine power up to 444 hp. An adaptive M-tuned suspension consists of new springs, dampers and anti-roll bars and includes reconfigured driving modes of Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus. BMW's Dynamic Stability Control system and active M limited-slip rear differential have also been recalibrated for track work.
There are visual and aural dimensions to the Competition package as well, with special multispoke 20-in alloy wheels, an M sport exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes, and special lightweight M sport seats with additional support and seat belts with woven-in BMW M stripes.
Stand-alone options include carbon-ceramic brakes, an adaptive suspension, 19-in wheels, a sunroof, a power rear sunshade and an automated self-parking function.
The trunk measures a modest 12 cu ft.
| Sedan | Original MSRP / Price | Engine | Horsepower | City MPG / Hwy MPG | Transmission | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M3 4dr Sdn | $63,500 / N/A | 6 Cylinder Turbo | 425 | N/A | 6-Speed Manual / 7-Speed Shiftable Automatic | RWD |
Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock disc brakes, stability control and eight airbags (front, front-side, front-knee and full-length side-curtain). The BMW Assist emergency telematics system, which includes automatic accident notification, stolen vehicle tracking and roadside assistance, is also standard.
The Driver Assistance Plus package adds an array of advanced safety features.
The specialized M3 hasn't been crash-tested, but the 3 Series sedan (on which the M3 is based) received high marks. In government crash testing, it earned five stars out of five overall: four stars for front impacts and five for side impacts. Similarly, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 3 Series its top rating of Good in all categories except for the new small-overlap front test, where the 3 took a score of Marginal (second-worst of four ratings).
| Basic | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Drivetrain | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Corrosion | 12 Years/Unlimited Miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 Years/Unlimited Miles |
| Maintenance | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
2016 Audi S4 -- The 333-hp S4 technically plays one league down, facing off against the 320-hp 340i sedan. But if the M3's performance is too much, the S4 is a refined and classy alternative.
2016 Cadillac ATS-V -- With a 455-hp twin-turbo V6, the compact ATS-V can sprint to 60 mph in under 4 seconds, and it's one of the best-handling sedans in the world.
2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe -- It's not a sedan (although a 4-door model is probably on the way), but you'll get 469 hp or 503 hp in the S version and everything that needs to go with it with the C63.
Used BMW M3 -- The previous-generation M3 was an instant classic with its racy V8. You can find a certified pre-owned specimen with a warranty for much less than a new M3.
Looking to buy a used baby BMW? Check out these tips on how to find the best secondhand entry-level ...
