2015 BMW M3
New for 2015
The M3 is completely redesigned for 2015.
One Powerful Letter
With its combination of racing-inspired driving dynamics and sedan practicality, the BMW M3 is a performance icon and one of the foundational elements of the BMW mystique. For 2015, this legendary sports sedan is better than ever thanks to a comprehensive redesign that sees it move to the current-generation F30 3 Series platform. In addition to the new body, the M3 gets completely new mechanicals, from a turbocharged engine to sophisticated electronic driver aids. Your favorite road is waiting.
Powertrain and Performance
The last M3 was powered by a 4.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8, but to both increase performance and improve efficiency, BMW decided to go with an all-new 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged inline-six for the new model. It may have fewer cylinders and less displacement, but the new engine produces more power: 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, to be precise.
That tower of power drives the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. With the manual, the M3 will do 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, while the automatic shortens that sprint to 3.9 seconds. With either transmission, the M3 tops out at 156 mph. EPA-rated fuel economy is 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 26 mpg highway) with the manual transmission,* and 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway)* with the automatic.*
BMW gives the driver plenty of tools to get the most out of the M3. The Active M Differential is an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential that works with the stability control, varying the amount of lockup depending on conditions to maintain the perfect combination of grip and rotation. The stability control’s M Dynamic Control also allows greater wheelspin for easy drifting.
This M3 is also the first to feature electric power steering. The system is tuned specifically for M-car duty, and offers three programmable modes (Comfort, Sport, and Sport+), just like the Adaptive M Suspension. There are a lot of customization options here.
Features and Trims
The 2015 BMW M3 is offered only as a four-door, five-seat sedan. However, BMW also offers the mechanically-identical M4 in coupe and convertible body styles. Pricing for the M3 starts at $63,200.**
Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, Xenon adaptive headlights, a sport exhaust system, 10-way power-adjustable M sport front bucket seats, a split-folding rear seatback, rain-sensing wipers, ambient interior lighting, four 12-volt outlets, automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a three-spoke leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, navigation, and a harman/kardon® audio system.
Optional features include carbon-ceramic brakes, the Adaptive M Suspension, a power rear sunshade, moonroof, enhanced USB and Bluetooth®, and a parking assistant. The Lighting Package also adds adaptive full LED lights and automatic high beams, while the Executive Package adds a head-up display, heated steering wheel, park-distance control, and a rearview camera.
Design
The 2015 BMW M3 is really two cars in one. It has all of the practicality of a regular 3 Series sedan, but of course its performance capabilities far exceed those of the average commuter car. To turn the 3 Series into the M3, BMW gave it an aggressive visual makeover to match the upgraded performance hardware.
The aggressive front fascia, bulging fenders, and bigger wheels aren’t just for looks, though. Engineers carefully reshaped the body for the best aerodynamic performance, and used different materials to help the M3 lose weight. An “Air Curtain” in the front bumper and the model-specific side gills help smooth airflow around the front wheels, and at the back, a Gurney-style rear spoiler helps increase downforce.
As Lotus founder Colin Chapman said, the best way to build a sporty car is to “simplify, and add lightness.” To that end, BMW equipped the M3 with features like an aluminum hood and a carbon-fiber roof, which not only help reduce weight, but also lower the center of gravity by taking weight out of higher areas of the car. Aluminum and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic were also used for some of the suspension elements, to further reduce weight.
The interior is just as comfortable and luxurious as a standard 3 Series cabin, but gets some sporty features like heavily-bolstered front bucket seats, a sport steering wheel, and carbon fiber trim with black chrome highlights.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 BMW M3 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, BMW Assist eCall with SOS button, an Advanced Safety System that integrates deployment of safety features, and a full array of airbags. In addition, the Driver Assistance Plus Package includes BMW’s Active Driving Assistant, Active Blind Spot Detection, side and top-view cameras, and speed limit information.
Bottom Line
The 2015 BMW M3 is the epitome of the modern sports sedan.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at BMW of Catonsville to schedule a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image: BMW