BMW has been diligently updating its compact sport sedans and coupes, and the 2025 M3 is the latest model to receive a refresh. While there may not be any significant power or styling changes, these updates are a result of practical considerations and a commitment to incremental improvements.
One reason for the lack of a power boost in the M3 is the availability of a manual transmission. The manual variant of the M3 already packs an impressive 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter I6 engine. Pushing the limits of torque beyond this point would strain the capabilities of the manual transmission. On the other hand, the automatic-only M3 Competition offers even more power, producing 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The range-topping M3 Competition xDrive shares a 20-horsepower increase with its counterpart, the M4 Competition xDrive. There are rumors of an upcoming CS model that could potentially deliver an additional 20 horsepower for a total of 543.
As for the design, the M3 doesn’t require a complete overhaul just yet. The changes are subtle, as BMW opts for incremental updates rather than a complete redesign. The front of the car receives new LED lights and an updated face, but the rest of the car remains largely unchanged from its predecessor. This approach maintains continuity with the previous generation while incorporating some modern touches.
Inside the M3, one notable feature is BMW’s new Curved Display, which is sure to catch the eye. Powered by BMW Operating System 8.5, this infotainment system offers enhanced functionality and a more intuitive user experience. The addition of QuickSelect allows for easier navigation, reducing the need for deep menu-diving. Furthermore, BMW Personal Assistant enables voice commands to control various functions, adding convenience and hands-free operation to the mix.
In conclusion, while the updates to the 2025 BMW M3 may not be as dramatic as some enthusiasts would hope for, they are a result of practical considerations and a commitment to incremental improvements. The limitations of the manual transmission prevent a significant power increase, and the design changes reflect BMW’s preference for evolutionary updates rather than a complete overhaul. Nevertheless, the introduction of the new Curved Display and BMW Operating System 8.5 ensure that the M3 remains a technologically advanced and exciting vehicle to drive.