2025 BMW M3: 20 Extra Ponies for M3 Comp AWD, Refreshed Interior, and More
BMW is giving certain versions of its sixth-generation M3 high-performance sedan extra horsepower, and all versions of the M3 will receive some stylistic tweaks for the 2025 model year.
The M3’s twin-turbo, inline-six S58 engine returns for duty in 2025, though it will be offered in three states of tune now, depending on what sort of driveline you spec. Opt for the “purist” version, which features a six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive exclusively, and you’ll get access to 473 hp and 409 lb-ft of torque. Take it up a notch to the eight-speed automatic-only M3 Competition RWD, and you’ll get 503 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. Swing for the fences with the M3 Competition with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system (and the eight-speed auto), and you get 20 extra ponies for 2025, bringing the total to 523 hp. Torque remains the same across both Competition models.
BMW says the engine for the AWD M3 Competition serves as the basis for the mill that powers the brand’s M4 GT3 race car, so if you want a true race-derived powerplant, you’ll have to splash on the grand-daddy car. But the S58 features other motorsport-derived tech, such as a sleeve-free closed-deck crankcase that is extra rigid, and a lightweight forged crankshaft that unlocks extra torque in the motor. The core of the cylinder head is also pretty high-tech, utilizing 3D printing to achieve special routing for the coolant ducts that conventional casting methods couldn’t produce.
The AWD M3 Competition is good for a 3.4-second 0–60 romp, according to BMW, and all M3s come with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, though an M Driver’s package can up that figure to 180.
The other updates for the M3 are more form over function, but still noteworthy. A new headlight design consolidated the high and low beams into a single module, and the LED daytime running light signature has been redesigned for a more vertical look. (Those hoping for a new, less beaver-toothed front grille may be disappointed to discover that the M3’s face still sports this polarizing look.)
A new forged alloy wheel design finished in bright silver has been added to the options list, which BMW says gives the car a more sophisticated appearance.
Inside, the 2025 M3 gets the latest version of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, with a curved display that pairs a 12.3-inch instrument panel ahead of the driver and a 14.9-inch center control screen. The latter can display M-specific content regarding the vehicle’s status.
If tech ain’t your thing, maybe the M3’s new steering wheel is more your speed. The new three-spoke design features a flat bottom rim that retains the red center marker at the 12 o’clock mark. The standard one comes wrapped in leather, though an Alcantara-wrapped version is an option, either standalone or as part of the optional Carbon package.
Production of the 2025 M3 begins at the company’s Munich plant in July of this year. For the manual-equipped, non-comp M3, you’ll be looking at a starting point of $77,175. To step up to the RWD M3 Competition, plan to fork over at least $81,375. The AWD M3 Competition will start at $86,475.
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