BMW M3 GTS 2025: Price, consumption, picture, technical data.
Whenever the letter M and the number 3 are together on a model badge, a great experience awaits the driver, and that is once again the case with the BMW M3 GTS. Sure, it might be derided for its exaggerated, oversized grille, but it is satisfying. Push the manual transmission or chase its silky six-cylinder to the red line and the styling stigma is forgotten. The standard 473-hp M3 is the M3 for purists, as rear-wheel drive and a stick shift are mandatory.
BMW M3 GTS
If faster lap times are more important, the Competition model features an upgraded twin-turbo inline-six with 503 hp and a track-tuned chassis. It only comes with an automatic, but it’s also the only way to add all-wheel drive. When the track day is over, the furious Bimmer can transform back into a smooth daily driver.
It’s a shame that the many digital displays and excessive drive mode settings can kill the mood. As impressive as the M3 is, both the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio and the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing can entertain our lizard brains better, so this Bimmer falls short of offering the ultimate driving machine.
What’s new ?
For the first time in the M3’s history, the model will be available with all-wheel drive. The newly optional system costs $4100 and is exclusively compatible with the automatic-only Competition model. While this means buyers can’t pair it with the DIY six-speed transmission, BMW says the addition of AWD makes the M3 Comp quicker than its rear-drive counterpart. What’s more, opting for all-wheel traction doesn’t mean foregoing lateral action, as this version of BMW’s xDrive system includes a “2WD” mode to perfect your Ken Block impersonation. Of course, responsible drivers will reserve such shenanigans for the track.
It’s a shame the more powerful M3 Competition is only offered with an automatic transmission, because the six-speed manual in the regular version is very satisfactory. We understand why some people are attracted to the M3 Comp – its extra power and available all-wheel drive ($4100 extra) for starters – but we prefer the one with the manual. Subjective exterior and interior design aside, we recommend opting for the M Drive Professional package (onboard drift analyzer and lap timer) and the M Driver’s package (unlocks a higher top speed and includes a high-performance driving class).
Engine, transmission and performance
Like the new M4 coupe, the M3 sedan features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. The regular version sends 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. The only transmission offered is a six-speed manual. The M3 Competition’s engine is even more powerful, producing 503 horses and 479 pound-feet, but it’s only offered with the eight-speed automatic. The M3 Comp comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but is also available with an all-wheel drive system with rear-drive mode. Every M3 also features adaptive dampers and adjustable brake pedal feel.
The sedan can also be equipped with even stronger carbon-ceramic brakes, which feature cool gold-painted calipers. Our first drive of the regular M3 and Competition variant demonstrated their ability to produce lurid drifts, boosted by the optional M Drift Analyzer (part of the M Drive Professional package). We also fell in love with the manual transmission’s satisfying shifts, and we were equally pleased with the engine’s tenacious acceleration. Compared to the noisy Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, however, the M3 does n’t immerse the driver quite as much.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The M3 GTS sedan is rated at up to 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Adding all-wheel drive lowers its highway estimate to 22 mph. Once we run one on our 75-mile highway fuel-economy route, part of our extensive testing program, we won’t be able to evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information on the M3’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, comfort and cargo
Aside from unique “M” logos and distinctive trim, the M3’s interior is essentially the same as the regular 3 Series. This means the M3 has the same design, passenger space, and outward visibility as its more pedestrian counterpart. While M cars are known for their heartier performance, they also meet or exceed the materials and build quality of the top-of-the-line 3 Series. Of course, the M3 has more carbon fiber and microsuede accents for a racier aesthetic.
The driver faces a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that switches to M View in the sportier driving modes; they’re activated via distinctive red buttons on the M3’s chunky steering wheel. Switching to M View adds a gearshift indicator and replaces the regular tachometer with a more legible one. A set of heavily bolstered, lightweight front seats is available (standard on the Competition) and offers incredible support without sacrificing much comfort, although this may not be the case on long road trips.
Infotainment and connectivity
The M3’s infotainment system runs on a 12.3-inch touchscreen that’s primarily manipulated via a rotary knob and buttons on the center console. The system features multiple charging ports, as well as a selection of standard and optional features. Thankfully, BMW no longer requires a paid subscription to Apple CarPlay and has finally adopted Android Auto . Both are standard, along with a Harman/Kardon sound system and a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio. The system can be optionally equipped with gesture controls, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless charging pad.
Safety and driver assistance functions
While driver engagement is BMW’s top priority with its M vehicles, the sedan features a number of standard and optional driver assistance technologies. For more information on the BMW M3 ‘s crash test results , visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
- Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist as standard
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and maintenance coverage
BMW offers a limited powertrain warranty that’s in line with rivals like Audi and Mercedes -AMG. It also offers longer free scheduled maintenance than those alternatives, but is still shorter than what Jaguar offers.
Price BMW M3 GTS
The new BMW M3 GTS is available as standard from 60,500 to 70,000 € (Euro).