2016 BMW M3 Photos and Info News Car and Driver ratings review specs.The BMW M3 is a true performance icon. A weaponized version of the regular 3-series on which it is based, it gets its own development code (F80) and its own name.
On the road, the effort pays off. But the competition doesn't sleep. Since the current M3 debuted, Daimler has launched its all-new Mercedes-AMG C63, and Cadillac is taking on BMW directly with the ATS-V. Both cars are incredible machines, and therefore BMW needed to refresh the M3 in addition to the changes made to the regular 3-series for 2016.The M3 is both a yardstick and a target, considerably different from its predecessors, but with a clear heritage of performance. It boasts an aggressive face, a turbocharged six-cylinder engine, a rigid and relatively lightweight chassis, and, most importantly, some astonishing performance.
BMW has been out testing the revised M3 for quite some time now, using plenty of camouflage to cover some of its body panels. Unfortunately, the camo proved to be just a way to build some hype around the 2016 M3, which received only a handful of updates inside and out. Not too upsetting given the M3 is still fresh and has plenty of feats to brag about, but this isn’t what I’d call a facelift.
The M3's S55 engine is loosely based on the N55 engine that is being dropped from the regular 3-series, but the S55 deserves to live on unchanged. Rated at 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, the twin-turbocharged straight-six is mated to either a six-speed manual or a Getrag-sourced seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, the latter of which is not available on any other 3-series. The M3 was new for 2015 and this year it gets minor trim and equipment updates. The taillights are now LEDs arranged in an L shape. Keyless access, one year of satellite radio, and a Harmon/Kardon sound system are now standard equipment. Inside, it gets additional touches of chrome, ambient lighting around the center stack, and new navigation unit hardware that promises faster startup, over-the-air map updates, better overall performance, and more realistic presentation of city details.Updated 06/18/2015: BMW announced prices for the 2016 M3 sedan which will be put on sale later in the summer. For 2016 the M3 is priced from $64,195, including $995 destination and handling. The price represents a significant increase over the previous year’s $62,000.While the regular 3-series gets a somewhat stiffer chassis, the M3 doesn't need more stiffness. And it keeps the electronically controlled rear differential that makes drifting easy—and fun.