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After a month behind the wheel of the G80 M3 Competition, it’s time to share some initial impressions. While a video review is in the works for my YouTube channel, I wanted to highlight key aspects of living with this performance sedan day-to-day, especially for those considering the jump to the latest generation M3 G80. My experience comes from a history steeped in sports and enthusiast cars, giving a solid perspective on where the G80 M3 Competition stands.
My Automotive Background
My garage has seen its share of M cars, including several E46 M3s, an E36 M3, and an F80 M3 Competition. I’ve also spent considerable time driving other generations of the M3. Beyond BMW, I’ve owned a 5.0 Mustang and, most recently, a 991.2 Porsche 911 GTS. This diverse experience provides a good benchmark for evaluating the G80 M3 Competition.
G80 M3 Competition: The PROS
Supreme Comfort and Daily Drivability
The G80 M3 Competition immediately impresses with its comfort. Getting in and out is effortless, and driving daily is a genuine pleasure. This isn’t just a weekend toy; it’s a car you can genuinely live with.
Striking Aesthetics
Beauty is subjective, but the G80 M3 has truly won me over aesthetically. Initially, the front end design was a point of discussion, but over time, it’s become a defining and, in my opinion, complementary feature. The car boasts an aggressive stance, exuding sexiness and style while maintaining a luxurious appeal.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The technology within the G80 M3 is a significant leap forward, especially coming from a 991.2 Porsche. The expansive iDrive screen is fantastic, and the customizable lighting options and intuitive layout enhance the modern feel. While there have been occasional minor glitches with the radio and screen responsiveness, these are infrequent and could be user-related quirks.
Untamed Power and Performance
The power of the G80 M3 Competition is simply phenomenal. Just when you think the engine might be reaching its limit, it unleashes even more. On open roads and highways, it’s an absolute beast, delivering relentless acceleration.
Impressive Steering and Handling
The steering in the G80 M3 is commendable, particularly in corner entry and exit. While it doesn’t quite match the laser-sharp precision and feedback of the 911 GTS, it’s exceptional for a car of this size and class. Concerns about numb steering or excessive understeer haven’t materialized in my experience, riding on Pilot 4S tires. The G80 M3 handles remarkably well for a substantial sedan packing a potent engine.
Exceptional Braking Power
The brakes are incredibly responsive and powerful, almost startlingly so. BMW M brakes have always been strong, but these feel like they operate on another level, providing immense stopping power.
G80 M3 Competition: The CONS
The Infamous Brake Squeal
The brake squeal is an undeniable downside. Despite being aware of M car brake characteristics and attempting bedding-in procedures, the squeal persists. For a vehicle in this price bracket, it’s surprising that a solution hasn’t been implemented at the manufacturing level. Switching to aftermarket iSweep brake pads is likely necessary to resolve this.
Fuel Economy – Thirsty Beast
Fuel consumption is another area where the G80 M3, while not as bad as older V8 M3s, is still noticeably thirsty. While expected for a performance car, it’s approximately 20% less fuel-efficient than the 911 GTS, impacting daily running costs.
Transmission Clunkiness
The transmission, while not PDK-precise, is generally adequate. However, it exhibits occasional clunky jerkiness, particularly when maneuvering at low speeds over uneven surfaces or in stop-and-go traffic. While shifts are rapid and precise during spirited driving, low-speed smoothness could be improved.
Overall Ownership Score (After One Month)
Using a 1-10 scale, here’s a breakdown of my experience so far:
- Power/Performance: 9
- Styling: 8
- Handling: 8
- Brakes: 7.5 (potential 9 without the squeal)
- Comfort: 8.5
- Technology: 8
- Efficiency: 6.5
- Daily Driver-ability: 9
- Passenger Comfort: 9
- Smile Factor: 8.5 (expecting this to increase post-brake pad swap)
Overall 1-Month Score: 8.2
The G80 M3 Competition is proving to be a thoroughly enjoyable car. While it may not be a direct replacement for the 911 GTS in terms of outright sports car feel, it excels as a daily driver, offering a fantastic blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It’s a truly wonderful machine for everyday driving enjoyment.
