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2021 BMW M3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

BMW M3 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Rapid acceleration
  • Great handling
  • Upscale interior

Cons

  • Front end isn't for everyone
  • Wind noise
  • Steering feedback could be better

Mileage (EPA estimate)

16 city, 23 highway, 19 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

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Super sports sedan

There's a reason that so many sports sedans are benchmarked against the mighty BMW M3. The trend continues with the 2021 M3 which has an amazing mix of power, poise, and refinement. Whether you are planning to attend a track day, or just need an entertaining commuter car, the M3 should be on your list. The M3 was redesigned for 2021 and packs an amazing turbo six-cylinder engine that produces 473 horsepower (up 48 hp over the previous model). Add a ton of standard features and luxury touches and you've got the ultimate daily driver.

All BMW M3 years

2021 BMW M3 trims

Curious how BMW M3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base:

  • 473-hp, 406-lb-ft of torque 3.0L
  • Rear Defroster
  • Cruise Control
  • Power Seats
  • Memory Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Side Airbags
  • View our BMW M3 inventory

Competition:

  • Includes all features available on the Base
  • 503-hp, 479-lb-ft of torque 3.0L
  • Automatic Transmission

5 reasons to buy the 2021 BMW M3

1. Epic power 

The standard M3 engine that makes 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque is likely more than enough for most situations. There's more to the 2021 M3's power story though. If you find an M3 Competition on our lots you're in for... wait for it, an epic 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.  

2. Standard comfort features 

There is nothing basic about the base M3 for the 2021 model year. The standard features list for the M3 is incredibly long, highlights include leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front sport seats, keyless entry with push-button start, automatic climate control, and LED headlights. So even a base trim M3 is sure to please. 

3. Performance comes standard  

The best-of-both-worlds M3 has myriad performance bits as standard too. Check out the standard 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels, adjustable suspension dampers, adjustable drive modes, and an M Sport rear differential. Your 2021 M3 will stand out from the crowd in a lot of ways.  

4. Latest technology  

You'd expect the 2021 M3 to be packed with tech, and you would be right. In addition to wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto smartphone integration, you'll get a great Harman Kardon® audio system, navigation, and parking sensors all standard. The M3 also comes with all the latest driver aids as standard equipment including forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.  

5. M3 Competition  

The options list is pretty great, but if you want to max out your M3 experience, search our lots for the M3 Competition. Not only is there more power (503 hp) but you'll get 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, trim-specific black exterior trim with black spoiler and exhaust tips, and Competition seat belts. An M3 with the Competition package is pretty special indeed.  

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

2
1
2
Average

RepairPal gave the BMW M3 an overall reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks BMW M3 57th out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW M3

BMW M3 features and specs

Competition 2WD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Adjustable Suspension
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Leatherette & Cloth
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Head Up Display
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Leather Seats
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Run Flat Tires
  • Sunroof(s)

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

3.0L

Horsepower

503

Torque (ft-lbs)

479

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

15.6

Wheelbase

112.5"

Overall length

189.1"

Width

74.3"

Height

56.4"

Leg room

F 41.6"/R 35.6"

Head room

F 40.6"/R 37.8"

Front tires

P275/35YR19

Rear tires

P285/30YR20

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2021 BMW M3 FAQ

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