BMW M3 Competition Package 2018 review | Mat Watson Reviews

TL;DR

BMW M3 Competition offers power and precision but faces tough competition.

Transcript

the BMW M3 I mean it's an absolute Legend the E30 from the 80s really set the precedent to which this car has to live up to but can it in order to do so this f80 M3 will have to be fast it'll have to be fun and it will have to be capable of running rings around the competition and speaking of competition this particular car has the competition pack... Read More

Key Insights

• The BMW M3 Competition Package adds significant performance enhancements, including more horsepower, improved handling components, and an upgraded exhaust system, making it a formidable contender in its class.
• Despite its performance upgrades, the M3 Competition maintains the high-quality interior and user-friendly infotainment system typical of the 3 Series, with added M-specific features.
• The car's 450 horsepower engine delivers impressive acceleration, though the exhaust note may not satisfy all enthusiasts seeking a distinctive sound.
• Handling is a strong suit for the M3, with precise grip and customizable settings for throttle response, suspension, and steering, though the steering lacks some tactile feedback.
• The M3 Competition is versatile, offering settings that make it suitable for both everyday driving and track use, enhancing its appeal as an all-rounder.
• One notable drawback is the tire noise, which can be intrusive during regular driving, potentially detracting from the overall driving experience.
• While the M3 Competition excels in many areas, it is slightly overshadowed by rivals like the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio in terms of overall performance.
• The M3 remains a solid choice for those seeking a well-built, German performance car, balancing heritage with modern capabilities.

Questions & Answers

Q: What performance enhancements does the Competition Package offer?

The Competition Package for the BMW M3 includes several performance enhancements, such as an increase in horsepower to 450 and improved handling components like retuned dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars. It also features a more lenient traction control system, a tuned rear differential for better traction, and a sports exhaust system for a more aggressive sound.

Q: How does the interior of the M3 Competition compare to the standard 3 Series?

The interior of the M3 Competition is largely similar to the standard 3 Series, which means it has a high-quality build and an easy-to-use infotainment system. However, the M3 Competition includes M-specific features such as an M steering wheel, M dials, and an M gear lever. Additionally, it offers optional carbon fiber trim and unique, comfortable wing-back seats.

Q: What are the main criticisms of the M3 Competition?

The main criticisms of the M3 Competition include the exhaust note, which some may find lacking in character, and the steering, which lacks feedback despite providing strong grip. Additionally, the tire noise can be intrusive during regular driving, which may detract from the overall driving experience.

Q: How does the M3 Competition's handling perform?

The M3 Competition's handling is one of its strong points, offering precise grip and the ability to customize settings for throttle response, suspension, and steering weight. While the steering lacks some tactile feedback, the car is capable of delivering thrilling performance, especially with the driver's aids turned off, allowing for significant tail slides.

Q: Is the M3 Competition a good everyday car?

Yes, the M3 Competition is a good everyday car due to its versatility and customizable settings that make it suitable for both daily driving and track use. The high-quality interior and user-friendly infotainment system add to its appeal as an all-rounder, although the tire noise can be a drawback during regular driving.

Q: How does the M3 Competition compare to its rivals?

While the M3 Competition excels in many areas, it faces stiff competition from rivals like the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, which slightly edges it out in terms of overall performance. However, the M3 remains a solid choice for those seeking a well-built, German performance car with a balance of heritage and modern capabilities.

Q: What is the acceleration capability of the M3 Competition?

The M3 Competition is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.0 seconds, according to BMW, when equipped with the dual-clutch DCT automatic gearbox and using launch control. In testing, it achieved a time of 4.4 seconds, which is still impressive for a car in this category.

Q: What are the customizable settings available in the M3 Competition?

The M3 Competition offers a range of customizable settings, allowing drivers to adjust the throttle response between three modes, the suspension between Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus, and the steering weight. Additionally, the ferocity of the gear shifts in the automatic gearbox can be adjusted between three stages, providing a tailored driving experience.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The BMW M3 Competition Package enhances the car's performance with additional horsepower, improved handling components, and a sportier exhaust. It retains the high-quality interior of the 3 Series with added M-specific features, making it a versatile and appealing choice for performance enthusiasts.

• Despite its impressive acceleration and handling, the M3 Competition's exhaust note may not satisfy all enthusiasts, and the steering lacks some feedback. It offers customizable settings for various driving conditions but is slightly overshadowed by rivals like the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.

• The M3 Competition is a versatile all-rounder, suitable for both everyday driving and track use. However, tire noise can be intrusive, and while it excels in many areas, it faces stiff competition from other high-performance sedans in its class.