2015 BMW M3 – Greensboro, NC

Overview: The M3 is a legend in the world of performance cars, giving enthusiasts everywhere reason to speak in gushing superlatives whenever given the chance. It’s even better now that the M3 has had a heart transplant in the guise of a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six that makes 425 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque; it replaces the previous model’s 414-hp 4.0-liter V-8. To help you avoid confusion, the M3 badge is now applied only to sedan models; coupe and convertible models now wear the new M4 designation.

Highs:

Sublime handling, turbo torque, baby DTM rear fender flares, comfortable all day long.

Lows:

Bland steering, almost 85 large as seen here.

SPECIFICATIONS

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan

PRICE AS TESTED: $84,650 (base price: $62,925)

ENGINE TYPE: twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection

Displacement: 182 cu in, 2979 cc
Power: 425 hp @ 7300 rpm
Torque: 406 lb-ft @ 1850 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 110.7 in
Length: 184.5 in
Width: 73.9 in Height: 56.1 in
Curb weight: 3580 lb

C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 4.1 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 9.2 sec
Zero to 150 mph: 23.3 sec
Street start, 5-60 mph: 4.9 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 12.4 sec @ 116 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 163 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 154 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.98 g

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway: 17/26 mpg
C/D observed: 22 mpg

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