2021 BMW M3 review
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)
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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
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each BMW M3 generation from 2012 to 2026
2021 BMW M3 trims
Curious how BMW M3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesBase:
- 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
- View our BMW M3 Competition inventory
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
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 M3BMW M3 features and specs
Curious how BMW M3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Competition 2WD 4D Sedan
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- 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
- Heated Mirrors
- 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
The 2021 BMW M3 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- : 16 MPG City and 23 MPG Highway
- Competition: 16 MPG City and 23 MPG Highway
The BMW M3 received a rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks the BMW M3 as 56 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Car
The 2021 BMW M3 has received an average 5.0 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 BMW M3, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 BMW M3 Reviews.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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