The BMW M3 has long been considered a benchmark in the world of sports sedans. For 2025, the latest iteration of the M3 continues this legacy, taking the already excellent 3 Series sedan and injecting it with a potent dose of performance DNA. It refines the driving experience to such a degree that it remains a top contender for the title of Best Sedan Sports Car available today, without sacrificing the everyday usability that makes the regular 3 Series so appealing.
The heart of the M3’s transformation lies in its engine. BMW has equipped it with a 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged straight-six engine, a powerplant that in its standard form delivers a robust 473 horsepower. This represents a significant 91-hp increase compared to the engine found in the M340i. Power is channeled to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission, a feature that will delight purists and driving enthusiasts who believe in the engagement of three pedals. Interestingly, a manual transmission is exclusively offered on the standard M3, emphasizing its focus on driver involvement. For those preferring an automatic, or seeking even greater performance, the M3 Competition awaits.
The M3 Competition elevates the power output to an impressive 503 hp and replaces the six-speed manual with a slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, all-wheel drive becomes an option on the M3 Competition, and selecting this drivetrain configuration brings an additional 20 horsepower to the table. This variety of powertrain options ensures that there is an M3 to suit different driving preferences and needs, further solidifying its position as a versatile best sedan sports car.
However, the M3’s appeal extends far beyond mere horsepower figures. BMW’s engineers have meticulously reworked the suspension, incorporating adaptive dampers to provide a sophisticated balance between ride comfort and handling prowess. Upgraded, more powerful brakes ensure confident stopping power, while larger wheels shod with performance-oriented tires enhance grip and responsiveness. These comprehensive chassis upgrades transform the otherwise composed 3 Series into a formidable performance machine. The M3 is equally at home carving through winding roads or tackling a race track, yet remains civilized enough for daily commutes. A suite of selectable drive modes allows drivers to tailor the car’s dynamics to various conditions and driving styles, although the sheer number of options can occasionally feel a bit overwhelming. Despite this complexity, the result is a car that convincingly earns its place among the best sedan sports car offerings.
Stepping inside, the cabin of the M3 shares much of its design and layout with the standard 3 Series sedan, which is certainly not a drawback. The interior is spacious both front and rear, and the overall design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The front seats are more aggressively bolstered than those in the standard 3 Series, providing enhanced lateral support during enthusiastic driving, yet they remain comfortable for everyday use. Subtle “M” badges are sprinkled throughout the cabin, along with standard aluminum trim, adding a touch of sportiness without being ostentatious. For 2025, a new flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel adds a modern touch, and the infotainment system receives an upgrade to BMW’s latest user interface software. A prominent 14.9-inch touchscreen display dominates the dashboard, serving as the central hub for vehicle controls and information, while a customizable 12.3-inch digital instrument panel in front of the driver provides key vehicle data. This blend of luxury and sporty functionality reinforces the M3’s status as a top contender in the best sedan sports car category.
While the M3 pioneered the high-performance sports sedan segment, it now faces stiff competition from a number of equally compelling rivals. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, for instance, boasts comparable horsepower, razor-sharp handling, and Italian styling that some might find more visually appealing than the M3’s more angular design. The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is another formidable European competitor, offering immense power, track-focused handling, and sophisticated styling. For those seeking a slightly different flavor, the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing presents a compelling American alternative, delivering impressive performance and handling at a potentially more accessible price point. Despite this strong competition, the 2025 BMW M3 continues to stand tall, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and everyday usability that cements its position as a leading contender for the title of best sedan sports car in a very competitive market.
