BMW M3 Sedan: Even More of a Good Thing

BMW M3 Sedan: Even More of a Good Thing
Price as tested: $61,525

How do you crank up the volume on the BMW 3-series – the compact sports sedan that virtually invented the category? Turn it over to BMW’s Motorsports division for the “M” treatment, which in this case includes addition of a 4.0 liter, 414 horsepower/295 lb-ft of torque V8 dynamo that moves you and three friends from zero to 60 in 4.6 seconds.

The last M3 I drove a couple of years ago was fitted with some quasi-manual transmission that delivered the worst of both worlds. Driving it was like riding with someone who didn’t know how to use a stick. But this time around, the M3 is fitted with one of the creamier 6-speed gearboxes I’ve ever encountered. Reverse is still ridiculously located right next to first gear, but the addition of a beep indicator and sideview mirror tilt-down eliminates the possibility of launching into the front grill of the driver behind you when the light turns green.

As much fun as stoplight hot-rodding can be in this car, the real pleasure comes on the open road. That V8 powerplant with variable valve timing and electronic drive-by-wire throttle is simply stunning – as is BMW’s speed-sensitive variable assist power steering that stiffens at speed to keep you from winning any Darwin Awards. The Audi S4 could use this feature.

BMW finally figured out that cops and teenage boys can spot an M3 from a quarter mile away, so this year’s model dispenses with any pretexts of discretion and sports a bulging “Powerdome” in its aluminum hood. Frankly, I think the bulge makes the Bimmer look a bit like a Subaru WRX, but maybe that’s just me.

Inside, the driver’s seat is more accommodating than earlier models, while still remaining supportive. The car is relatively quiet at speed, and my test vehicle came with a $3250 Technology Package that included BMW’s “M Drive,” which enables the driver to create and save a profile including suspension stiffness, degree of power steering assist, etc.; a navigation system with real-time traffic indicators; and HD radio.

The M3 is the finest realization of BMW’s venerable 3-series platform. I was ready to love it outright until I drove the Mercedes C63 AMG, which has a base price of only $500 more than the M3. If you’re in this market, you’ve got to drive both.