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2022 BMW M3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2022 BMW M3 is the new Competition xDrive trim, which brings all-wheel drive to the M3 for the first time. The rear-wheel-drive M3 and M3 Competition otherwise largely carry over from 2021.
About the 2022 BMW M3
6th gen G80 M3, second model year, pre-refresh.
BMW positions the M3 as a four-door performance car that blends track-ready hardware with everyday usefulness. The brand’s themes are strong straight-six power, precise chassis tuning, configurable drive settings, and room for real daily life. In 2022, the M3 stands apart by still offering a manual transmission in the base car while also adding a rear-biased all-wheel-drive version for buyers who want even faster launches and better all-weather traction.
The base M3 is the traditionalist’s version, with a 473-hp six-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual transmission. The 503-hp Competition uses an eight-speed automatic, while the new Competition xDrive adds more traction without giving up the M3’s rear-biased feel. All three have adaptive suspension, a carbon-fiber roof, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and separate digital instrument and touchscreen displays.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new Competition xDrive pairs the Competition model’s 503-hp six-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic with rear-biased all-wheel drive. Its selectable modes include 4WD, 4WD Sport, and a rear-wheel-drive 2WD setting.
Structural
The Competition xDrive receives all-wheel-drive-specific chassis and steering tuning. The underlying G80 body structure carries over.
2022 BMW M3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd M STEPTRONIC w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd M STEPTRONIC w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 473 hp | 503 hp | 503 hp |
| Torque | 406 lb-ft | 479 lb-ft | 479 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13 cu-ft | 13 cu-ft | 13 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.6 in | 35.6 in | 35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 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 | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2022 BMW M3?
The biggest change is the addition of the Competition xDrive trim. It combines the 503-hp Competition powertrain with rear-biased all-wheel drive.
Is the 2022 BMW M3 the first M3 with all-wheel drive?
Yes. The 2022 Competition xDrive is the first M3 fitted with all-wheel drive, and it has 4WD, 4WD Sport, and rear-wheel-drive 2WD modes.
Does the 2022 BMW M3 still have a manual transmission?
Yes. The base 2022 M3 has a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. Both Competition versions use an eight-speed automatic.
Did the rear-wheel-drive 2022 M3 models change much from 2021?
No. The base M3 and rear-wheel-drive M3 Competition largely carry over from 2021, with no broad styling, safety, or infotainment update for 2022.
Is the 2022 BMW M3 worth considering over the 2021 model?
The 2022 model is the one to consider if all-wheel drive matters, because Competition xDrive joined the lineup that year. Shoppers focused on a rear-wheel-drive M3 will find the 2021 and 2022 versions broadly similar.
2022 BMW M3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2022 BMW M3.
4.7
2022 BMW M3
(207 reviews)
“If you are looking for a do it all car from track to daily life consider the M3 Comp with Xdrive.”
“Awesome vehicle through and through! Although I think personally, I would like to see what the new 2023 M2 (G87) has to offer.”