“The I drive 8 will take some time to get used to due to all the HMI controls being on the screen and no physical buttons (minimal).”
2023 BMW M3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2023 BMW M3’s biggest change is its standard curved display and updated BMW Operating System 8. Otherwise, its core engines, transmissions, and rear- or all-wheel-drive layouts carry over.
About the 2023 BMW M3
6th generation (G80), third model year, pre-refresh with a major interior tech update.
BMW positions the M3 as a true four-door sports car with direct ties to motorsport but enough comfort and practicality for everyday use. Its core appeal is the blend of strong turbo-six power, sharp chassis tuning, driver-focused controls, and real sedan usability. In this class, the M3 stands out because it still offered a manual transmission in base form for 2023, while the Competition models added even quicker automatic performance without giving up the model’s road-and-track personality.
The standard M3 remains the traditional driver-focused version, with 473 horsepower, rear-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual. The 503-hp Competition pairs rear-wheel drive with an eight-speed automatic, while the Competition xDrive adds all-wheel drive for stronger traction. Every version has adaptive suspension, a carbon-fiber roof, and the new curved display.
What changed, by category
Tech
Every M3 gains BMW’s curved display, which combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. BMW Operating System 8 replaces the previous infotainment setup.
2023 BMW M3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 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 | 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 | |||
| 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 2023 BMW M3?
The biggest change is a new curved display fitted across the lineup. It combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch touchscreen, and BMW Operating System 8.
Did the 2023 BMW M3 get any engine or transmission changes?
No, the 2023 M3 keeps the previous year’s core powertrain lineup. The standard model has a 473-hp engine and six-speed manual, while both 503-hp Competition versions use an eight-speed automatic.
Does the 2023 BMW M3 still have a manual transmission?
Yes, the standard 2023 M3 has a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The Competition and Competition xDrive use an eight-speed automatic.
What changed between the 2022 and 2023 BMW M3?
The 2023 M3 adds a standard curved display and BMW Operating System 8 across the lineup. Its basic engine, transmission, and drivetrain combinations otherwise remain unchanged from 2022.
Is the 2023 BMW M3 a full redesign?
No, the 2023 M3 is not a full redesign. It remains part of the sixth generation and receives a substantial interior technology update rather than new bodywork or a new chassis.
2023 BMW M3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 BMW M3.
4.6
2023 BMW M3
(218 reviews)
“Great car. Love the bucket seats but HATE the bump in the middle of the seats. Useless and pointless and detracts from overall comfort and enjoyment of the car.”
“The car is amazing. Get the manual if you like to drive. It handles well, is fast, and feels quite sturdy. Join the club.”