BMW's racing heritage is on full display in the 2025 BMW M3's look and feel. Additionally, all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions of the iconic four-door sport sedan receive 20 more horsepower, improving the car's zero-to-60-mph time to a claimed 3.8 seconds with the automatic transmission.
The new M3 has three trim levels: M3, M3 Competition, and M3 Competition with M xDrive. Powering the M3 is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine mated with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard for the M3 and M3 Competition; the M3 Competition with M xDrive utilizes BMW's AWD system.
The 2025 BMW M3's exterior receives only minimal changes, retaining its sleek four-door sport sedan look and exaggerated kidney grille. The car has updated LED headlights featuring two vertical arrow-like amber LED strips that double as daytime running lights and turn signal indicators. Large carbon ceramic brakes and colorful brake calipers sit behind a new optional M forged-alloy wheel design in a bright silver finish.
An optional M Carbon package makes the already sporty M3 even sportier. The package adds a rear diffuser, carbon fiber mirror caps, a front air intake inlay, and a carbon fiber spoiler to enhance the car's street-racer look.
The 2025 BMW M3's interior also receives minor updates. Noteworthy additions include a new flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel with a red center marker, multi-function buttons, and an optional M Alcantara wrap. Several interior trim materials are available in the M3, covering the instrument panel, control panel, and cupholders. Heated leather seats come standard; ventilated front seats are optional.
The optional M Carbon package brings M Carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger, carbon fiber trim elements, and the M Alcantara steering wheel.
While all versions of the 2025 BMW M3 share the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, the overall power output varies.
The base M3, with standard RWD and a six-speed manual transmission, generates 473 hp and 406 pound-feet of torque. BMW says it can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in 4.1 seconds.
The M3 Competition pairs the same engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also has standard RWD. That combination produces 503 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a claimed zero-to-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds.
The most powerful version of the car, the 2025 M3 Competition with M xDrive, pairs the 3.0-liter engine and eight-speed automatic transmission with BMW's xDrive AWD system. The result is 523 hp—20 more than the M3 Competition—and 479 pound-feet of torque. According to BMW, the car can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, thanks to the slight power boost and the extra grip provided by the AWD system.
According to the automaker, BMW electronically caps the top speed of all M3s at 155 mph. However, the optional M Driver's Package raises the speed limit to 180 mph.
Though BMW didn't share many details regarding the M3's safety features, the equipment roster will likely mimic the recently refreshed 2025 BMW M4, which shares a platform.
All 2025 M3s come standard with a panoramic curved display screen comprising a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that spans over half the dashboard. The optional head-up display projects a tachometer, shift indicator lights, vehicle speed, posted speed limit, and other relevant driving information.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all M3s, as are a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system and a wireless charging station.
It's no wonder the BMW M3 is so popular among car enthusiasts. It's more than just a powerful sport sedan; it's a statement piece. It offers an opulent cabin, a mighty engine, an iconic badge, and a successful racing pedigree. Competitors to the M3 include the Audi RS 5, Cadillac CT4-V, and the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance.
BMW is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of May 28, 2024, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
Zac Johnson is a lifelong car enthusiast pursuing his dream of becoming an automotive journalist. He is a social media manager, contributor to JDPower.com, and founder of Best Daily Drivers.
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