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2021 BMW M3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2021 BMW M3 is a full redesign that launches the sixth-generation G80 sedan. Its headline change is the move to an all-new platform with a new twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, a redesigned body and cabin, and new technology.
About the 2021 BMW M3
6th generation (G80), first year
BMW positions the 2021 M3 as a true do-everything performance sedan: a four-door car with real back-seat and trunk usefulness, but engineered for serious street and track driving. The brand leans heavily on driver involvement, rear-wheel-drive balance, a high-output inline-six, and unusually deep performance settings, while the sedan body keeps it practical enough for everyday use. Versus rivals, the M3’s biggest calling card is that it blends daily usability with a more hands-on, enthusiast-focused feel, especially in the manual-transmission base model.
The standard M3 is the driver-focused version, pairing 473 horsepower and rear-wheel drive with a six-speed manual transmission. The M3 Competition raises output to 503 horsepower and uses an eight-speed automatic, while both versions have adaptive suspension, a performance rear differential, digital gauges, touchscreen navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
A new twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six powers the lineup. The standard M3 has 473 horsepower and a six-speed manual, while the 503-hp Competition uses an eight-speed automatic.
Styling
The G80 redesign brings an all-new body and a completely redesigned cabin.
Safety
BMW’s Active Driving Assistant safety suite is standard across the lineup.
Tech
A new standard digital cockpit combines 12.3-inch digital gauges with touchscreen navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Structural
The M3 moves to a new platform and chassis, with adaptive suspension and a performance rear differential standard on both versions.
2021 BMW M3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd M STEPTRONIC w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 473 hp | 503 hp |
| Torque | 406 lb-ft | 479 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13 cu-ft | 13 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.6 in | 35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 BMW M3 a redesign?
Yes. The 2021 M3 is the first model year of the all-new sixth-generation G80 sedan, with a new body, cabin, chassis, engine, and technology.
Does the 2021 BMW M3 have a manual transmission?
Yes. The standard 2021 M3 pairs its 473-hp engine with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The M3 Competition instead has an eight-speed automatic.
What is the difference between the 2021 M3 and M3 Competition?
The 2021 M3 Competition has 503 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic, while the standard M3 has 473 horsepower and a six-speed manual. BMW positioned the Competition as the quicker, more intense version.
What cabin technology was added to the 2021 BMW M3?
The redesigned 2021 M3 has standard 12.3-inch digital gauges, touchscreen navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. These features are included on both the standard M3 and M3 Competition.
Does the 2021 BMW M3 come with rear-wheel drive?
Yes. The launch-year 2021 M3 lineup uses rear-wheel drive. The standard car combines it with a six-speed manual, while the Competition uses an eight-speed automatic.
2021 BMW M3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 BMW M3.
4.6
2021 BMW M3
(89 reviews)
“The BMW M3 is the perfect daily sports car. It offers relentless power combined with all the comforts and conveniences of a four-door sedan. You can fit passengers comfortably in the back for steady cruises or unleash its full potential on the track.”
“If you want a fast car that looks amazing and turns heads then you will love an M3SDMaryland”