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2018 BMW M3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2018 BMW M3 is the arrival of the limited-run M3 CS, a lighter and more powerful special edition. The regular M3 also receives a few useful equipment updates rather than a full redesign.
About the 2018 BMW M3
F80 sixth generation (2015-2018), final U.S. model year before the all-new 2021 M3.
BMW positions the M3 as a compact high-performance sedan that blends track-ready engineering with everyday usefulness. It is the practical M car in the range: four doors, a usable back seat, real trunk space, and serious speed. The draw is not just straight-line power, but the way the chassis, brakes, steering, and rear-drive balance work together. Against rivals, the M3’s identity is the mix of daily-driver usability and a more focused, driver-first feel.
The regular M3 remains a practical four-door performance car, pairing a 425-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine with adaptive suspension and an electronically controlled rear differential for better traction. The new CS turns up the intensity with 453 horsepower, lighter carbon-fiber parts, sharper chassis tuning, two-tone leather and Alcantara seats, navigation, and premium audio.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new M3 CS uses a stronger 453-hp version of the twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and a standard 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Styling
LED headlights become standard across the lineup. The M3 CS adds exposed carbon-fiber exterior pieces and darker trim details.
Safety
A rearview camera becomes standard across the lineup instead of optional.
Tech
The regular M3 gains BMW’s iDrive 6.0 touchscreen infotainment system as standard equipment.
Structural
The M3 CS adds lighter carbon-fiber body pieces and CS-specific chassis tuning for sharper responses.
2018 BMW M3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto 7-Spd DCT w/Drivelogic | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 444 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 406 lb-ft | 406 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 17 cu-ft | 17 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.1 in | 35.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Side View Cameras | ||
| Top View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Rear Window Shades | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 BMW M3?
The biggest change is the addition of the limited-run M3 CS. It brings more power, lighter carbon-fiber parts, and sharper chassis tuning to the F80-generation sedan.
Is the 2018 BMW M3 a full redesign?
No, the 2018 BMW M3 is not a full redesign. It is the final U.S. model year of the F80 generation, which began with the 2015 model.
How is the 2018 M3 CS different from the regular M3?
The M3 CS has 453 horsepower rather than the regular M3’s 425 horsepower. It also has a standard 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, lighter carbon-fiber body pieces, unique chassis tuning, and more focused cabin trim.
Did the regular 2018 BMW M3 change from 2017?
Yes, but the changes are modest. The regular 2018 M3 gains standard LED headlights, a standard rearview camera, and the newer iDrive 6.0 touchscreen infotainment system.
Is the 2018 BMW M3 the last F80 model year?
Yes, 2018 is the final U.S. model year for the F80-generation M3. The next all-new M3 arrived for the 2021 model year.
2018 BMW M3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 BMW M3.
4.6
2018 BMW M3
(114 reviews)
“...for the pure THRILL of it...strap on your seatbelt and let's go drive something that was meant to be DRIVEN!”
“Sports sedan with stick shift, if that's what you want there's only one! Fun enough for the weekend cruise and practical enough for small family transportation.”