BMW 3-Series M3 (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 04 August 2009
The M3 is a favourite of car enthusiasts. Its race heritage dates back to the 1980s, although at first the 2007 model seems far too well mannered to play the part of a road-going race car. Available as a saloon, convertible or coupe, there are some muscular styling additions to distinguish it from the standard 3-Series models, hinting at the car's potential. But at a time when most people seem to be concerned about carbon footprints than a carbon-fibre roof, BMW has performed the trick of increasing engine size and power output, while reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. However, the M3 remains a thrilling drive and certainly able to stake a claim as the best driver's car in its class in the face of ever stiffer competition from Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
5 out of 5

Other BMW reviews

2 out of 5

Running costs

At £50,000+ the M3 isn't cheap, however it is well equipped with leather seats and satellite navigation among the standard equipment. It will also depreciate slowly - expect it to be worth about £30,000 after three years. Fuel consumption of around 23mpg is pretty punishing while servicing and parts are expensive too.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Variable according to on-board computer.

Warranty

Three years/unlimited mileage.

Road tax (12 months)

£475.00 - £475.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

1.5 out of 5

Green credentials

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CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

With an output of 295g/km CO2 for the saloon and Coupe, the M3 counts as a heavy polluter, but thanks to some cleaver energy saving technology, it is cleaner than its predecessor despite being heavier and more powerful. The Convertible emits 309g/km of CO2 but interestingly opting for the automatic DTC gearbox actually reduces emissions and improves economy on all models. The saloon and the Coupe are capable of 23mpg, which rises to 24mpg with the auto. All cars from March 2010 come with an engine stop/start system which helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Fuel consumption averages 22 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2