Key Contrasts Between the BMW M3 Models of 2024 and 2025

The detailed revamp of the 2025 M3 Sedan has been unveiled by BMW. The announcement of upgrades to this four-door performance sedan comes shortly after the facelift of the M4 and the launch of the M4 CS. This refresh is not just a basic facelift but a refinement of an already impressive package in areas such as design, interior layout, trim, and power output. Before delving deeper, let’s recall what defines an M3.

Initially conceived as a homologation special, the M3 has evolved into both a luxury vehicle and a proficient canyon performer. We’ve previously argued that the E36 truly marks the genesis of the BMW M3 and its essence. For a more track-oriented experience, BMW offers the M3 CS or M4 CS. The latter was recently introduced. However, let’s focus on the enduring M3, the iconic car that set the standard for compact executive super sedans with the E30. What sets the current generation apart from the upgraded version?

1 Enhanced Power for the M3 Competition Equipped With AWD

The S58B30T0 twin-turbocharged inline-six stands as one of the most exemplary performance powerplants ever engineered. Originating from BMW’s renowned B58, the M division incorporated various elements from its motorsport endeavors to enhance its potency. Unchanged for two out of the three M3 variants, the M3 Competition with MxDrive all-wheel drive benefits from an additional 20 horsepower owing to a more refined engine management system. The average driver may not discern these additional horses,However, a single adjustment stands out significantly.

Due to the adjustments, the maximum torque of 479 lb-ft is now provided between 2,750 rpm and 5,730 rpm. In the Competition model with rear-wheel drive, torque begins decreasing after 5,500 rpm, whereas the AWD variant offers an additional 230 rpm for utilization. While it may not seem substantial, under the right circumstances, an attentive driver will detect the continuous power delivery. Similarly to before, the M xDrive system presents various driving modes, including 4WD Sport, which channels most of the power to the rear wheels to deliver that classic BMW RWD sensation. Naturally, you can also deactivate the front axle in 2WD mode, which BMW describes as offering a “more genuine driving experience devoid of interventions from the control systems.” Essentially, this translates to “you’re on your own when engaging drift mode, pal.”

2 Just Enough Exterior Changes To Notice

The M3 is equipped with newly styled LED headlights that integrate high and low beams in a singular unit. The daytime running lights and turn signal indicators are now encompassed within two shaped LED components that distinctively separate the pre- and post-facelift versions. The Competition emblem now features a silver outline, and M Shadowline lights with inner accents in a darker hue are now accessible. Lastly, BMW introduced a new forged M alloy wheel as an additional customization option.

Taking everything into account, the external enhancements are not monumental, but why alter something good? Although the M3/M4 often face criticisms regarding their grille resembling a snout, these comments diminished once the BMW XM hit the market. Perhaps the XM was introduced to alleviate pressure from other BMW models?

3 A Brand-New Steering Wheel

BMW placed particular emphasis on the interior, which is the primary space where you spend your time. While a new steering wheel may not seem like a significant modification, it is the component of the vehicle that you engage with the most while driving. The 2025 M3 is now equipped with a fresh three-spoke steering wheel featuring multifunction buttons and a red highlight at the 12 o’clock position. This latter characteristic will surely be useful when navigating through a parking lot in the late hours. BMW also revised the wheel’s spokes, and the bottom section of the steering wheel is now flat.

The identical style wheel is also accessible with an Alcantara boundary as an individual choice, or component of the Carbon Package. This Carbon Package is not going to be budget-friendly, though. It goes the complete distance and includes M Carbon ceramic brakes, M Carbon bucket front seats, carbon fiber interior trim, M Drive Professional (track mode plus the celebrated drift analyzer), and the M Driver’s package, which unlocks the 180 mph maximum speed.

4 The Up-to-date In Entertainment System

The 2025 M3 is one of the final models to be outfitted with BMW’s Curved Display and Operating System 8.5. The display is composed of a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with M-specific menus and interfaces. BMW is pleased with the fact that it has eliminated even more buttons and mentions that climate control, seat heating, and steering wheel heating can be adjusted via the touchscreen or voice control.

BMW crafted the curved display to be as user-friendly and manageable as possible, and we understand that it functions well. It originally premiered in the 7 Series, and it comprehends natural language impeccably. We transitioned from disliking voice operations to relying exclusively on issuing commands aloud after a week spent with a 760i. A heads-up display is discretionary, but certainly valuable. It places a multi-colored tachometer and a shift indicator light directly into the driver’s view.

5 All These Extras For The Equivalent Cost

With all of these enhancements, one might anticipate the 2025 BMW M3 to come with an increased price tag, but for a change, the Germans are integrating fresh features at no extra expense. The BMW M3 with a six-speed manual transmission is priced at $76,000, remaining identical to the 2024 model. The same applies to the M3 Competition versions, with or without M xDrive. The M3 will keep being produced alongside the M4 at the BMW Group Plant in Munich. All three variants will be introduced globally in July 2024, with availability in showrooms expected shortly after.