Owner reviews for the BMW M3
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5Few cars deliver a combination of thrills and practicality quite like the BMW M3. Famed for performance and everyday comfort, the M3 offers UK drivers the driving experience of a sports saloon with space for the family.
AA finance available
London
Beckenham
Wembley
AA finance available
Surbiton
Dagenham
Borehamwood
Hook
Bedford
Salisbury
Poole
Grimsby
Grimsby
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5AA finance available
BMW 3 SERIES 3.0 M340i MHT Touring 5dr Petrol Hybrid Auto xDrive Euro 6 (s/s)
London (6 miles)
AA finance available
BMW 3 Series M340i xDrive Saloon
Orpington (15 miles)
AA finance available
BMW 3 Series 3.0 M340i MHT Touring Auto xDrive Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
West Drayton (15 miles)
The BMW M3 has built a reputation for joining driving dynamics with understated four-door practicality. It began life as a coupe in the 1980s, but more practical and spacious saloon versions have been available since 1994. Recent popular generations include the E92 M3 (2007-2013) with its distinctive V8 engine, the F80 (2014-2018) with a more efficient twin-turbo, and the G80 (from 2020) offering more power. Compared with rivals like the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, the M3 stands out for its engaging rear-wheel drive balance, with all-wheel-drive models also available. It is known for its blend of luxury, speed, and usability, featuring a low-set driving position, adaptive suspension, and BMW’s reliable infotainment system.
All recent BMW M3 models come with a comprehensive safety package. Standard features include multiple airbags, stability and traction control, ABS and ISOFIX child-seat anchors. Depending on the year and trim, you may also find adaptive headlights, parking sensors and a lane-departure warning system that gives you added peace of mind.
BMW M3 engines have varied over the years. The E92 generation is famous for its naturally aspirated 4.0-litre V8. The F80 model switched to a 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six producing over 420bhp, while the most recent G80 upped the power to over 473bhp. Six-speed manual and dual-clutch automatic gearboxes are available, with the automatic offering slightly better fuel economy and performance.
Most BMW M3s come with dual-zone climate control, heated leather seats in the front, and a multifunction steering wheel. Modern models have BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with an 8.8in (or larger) colour display. Sat-nav, DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity are standard on post-2014 cars. Models featuring the Professional Media Pack offer upgraded navigation and extra digital services.
Official figures for the F80-generation M3 range from 32mpg (manual) to 34mpg (dual-clutch automatic), but real-world numbers are typically in the high 20s. The earlier E92 V8 M3 is thirstier, with typical consumption in the low 20s. Due to the M3's high performance, it's unlikely you will match official numbers in day-to-day driving.
Check for a full service history from franchised BMW dealers. Listen for unusual engine noises, check gearbox operation, and inspect tyres and brakes which are often used hard. Look for signs of accident repairs or cheap modifications. The AA Vehicle Inspection service is especially useful to ensure the used BMW M3 is safe and in good condition.
The BMW M3 has a strong reputation for reliability, especially F80 models with regular, main-dealer servicing. Turbo engines in later cars are proven but have higher running costs compared to standard saloons. Condition and maintenance history are crucial for years of enjoyable motoring.