With the G80’s release in 2020, we’ve seen our fair number of BMW M3 builds, but this one has quickly become one of our favourites. Several elegant modifications have been made to the all-black super sedan to pay homage to other powerful vehicles. The M4 CSL and more current M3 CS inspired the aggressive kidney grille up front. Meanwhile, the sequential taillights with a 3D effect on the back are evocative of the OLED arrangement visible on the M4 GTS.
The ominous M3 is a Competitive model with a large carbon fibre trunk lid spoiler, riding low on aftermarket Z-Performance wheels. When you lift the hood, you’ll immediately see the Eventuri carbon fibre intake system. The S58 engine sounds magnificent, thanks to the special setup from Frequency Intelligent Exhaust, which has those massive quad tips.
The M3 G80 lacks the iDrive 8 infotainment system that debuted last year. Thus, the interior, primarily black with carbon fibre trim and standard leather seats, exposes it as an earlier model. As the pre-2023 cars had a centre console with more practical controls, some would say that’s for the best. Also, the touchscreen doesn’t protrude as much as it does on the most recent M3. And the digital instrument cluster perfectly integrates with the dashboard.
The current-generation sports sedan has been in production for almost three years but still has a very long life ahead. In the middle of 2024, a proper Life Cycle Impulse is anticipated. According to BMW, the LCI will remain in production for three more years. According to insiders, the final G80 will be put together in June 2027.
The G82 M4 Coupe and G83 M4 Convertible will continue to run until August 2028, while the G81 M3 Touring will retire even later, in October 2027. BMW hasn’t officially verified the timeline, so proceed cautiously. It’s too early to say whether a gasoline-powered M3 is in the works, but there will be at least one more generation of 3 Series cars with combustion engines.