Model tested: 2025 BMW M3 Sedan Carbon Package
Engine: 3-liter turbocharged I-6
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Horsepower: 473
Torque: 406 lb.-ft.
EPA ratings: 16/city, 23/highway, 19/combined
Base price: $76,000
As tested: $101,875
Overview: The 2025 BMW M3 sedan is a study in deception. Non-enthusiasts see a compact sedan, but sharp-eyed BMW fans quickly spot the vaunted M3 badges, quad exhaust tips, subtle aerodynamic body mods, massive brakes and performance wheels and tires. A look inside reveals wild carbon-fiber seats, and once the twin-turbocharged 6 cackles to life, there is no doubt that this is a high-performance sports sedan.
Walkaround: We appreciated BMW’s stealth approach to styling. It is muscular and purposeful, without being tacky or needlessly busy. When potentially pushing the limits of adhesion or posted limits, it’s nice to avoid attention. Our tester was Dark Emerald Metallic, which looked almost black but sparkled in bright sunlight. The staggered alloy wheels were metallic gems that showcased massive brakes. The $15,300 Carbon Package seemed excessive, and the weight savings irrelevant away from the racetrack.
Interior: The Carbon Package included wild Recaro carbon-fiber bucket seats upholstered in orange and black leather. The fit is ideal for aggressive cornering, but the tall side bolsters are an ingress-egress challenge. Once seated, comfort is excellent. The extra-thick, contoured Alcantara leather steering wheel is a pleasure to hold. The pedals and six-speed shifter are all well-placed for efficient use. A Harman Kardon surround sound audio system is impressive, but our favorite channel was the engine and exhaust. A fine head-up display kept our eyes on the road while driving spiritedly. The back seat space is tight — the BMW M3 is a four-door sports sedan best suited for two people.
Behind the wheel: The 2025 BMW M3 is a blast to drive — engineering precision on four wheels. The torquey, twin-turbo inline-six engine sings as you slice through the gears with the buttery smooth six-speed transmission and excellent clutch. Handling and control are exceptional. Adaptive dampers deliver near-racecar handling without sacrificing comfort or daily drivability. The BMW M3 is a beautifully balanced car that begs to leave congested freeways in search of twisty country roads.
Bottom line: We thoroughly enjoyed the 2025 BMW M3 sports sedan. It’s a dream car for enthusiasts who appreciate precision engineering, quality construction and spirited driving. The car’s performance potential exceeded our skill set, but that didn’t diminish the fun. If it were our money, we’d trim the expensive carbon fiber and custom paint options and still have a wonderful driving experience.
