2025 BMW M3 Competition: Red, sleek, and high-performance
When reviewing cars, there are certainly some that I truly imagine myself owning assuming everything was aligned personally to afford it; the 2025 BMW M3 Competition Sedan is one of them. Inside and out, this machine is the perfect combination of design, performance, luxury, and technology—my ideal sedan.
BMW never takes the “M” brand for granted regarding performance and racing design. Presented in different trims starting at $80,200, I had the pleasure of driving the X3 Competition. Red could be a polarizing color, but when it came to gorgeous “Frozen Preciosa Red Metallic” which was close to a matte cranberry, I was won over. Its muscular frame is complemented with an extended shadowline, and a pairing of 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels. The optional Carbon Package ($15,300) takes things to the next level, featuring a carbon fiber trim, an M Alcantara steering wheel, exposed carbon-ceramic brakes, and the M Drive Professional which includes track and performance modes, and a BMW Performance Center driving session. This package also features the front M carbon bucket seats, which will need some practice getting in and out of, but for those desiring a genuine racing experience, the only thing missing is a helmet. The performance theme continues with what’s under the hood—an M TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine topping 503 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed M STEPTRONIC transmission with Drivelogic, resulting in seamless, precise shifts; the Adaptive M Suspension and M Sport Differential enhance the thrill. The Parking Assistance Package ($700) provides hands-free parking, while the highly recommended Executive Package ($1,400) gets owners a head-up display, remote start, a power tailgate, enhanced LED headlights, and a heated, three-spoke steering wheel. Note that there is no manual option, but the paddle shifters by my fingertips worked just fine.
The Silverstone/Black Leather upholstery ($2,550) is a welcomed upgrade along with the anthracite headliner and Galvanic controls. Besides the improved infotainment boasting a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster coupled with a 14.9-inch touchscreen, the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, ConnectedDrive, wireless charging, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, voice recognition, moonroof, and flawless 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system collectively pamper all passengers.
Safety is rarely a concern with BMW, and the Active Driving Assistant, Active Blind Spot Detection, and Lane Departure Warning. Parking Assistance and front/rear Park Distance Control are just a few of the mind-easing amenities.
While the M3 Competition offers unparalleled performance, its fuel economy is modest, with an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, which is understandable for a car in the performance sector
Ultimately, whether making a run to the grocery store or booking a track session to really open up this sedan, the 2025 BMW M3 Competition is already one of the top cars of the year. I want one.
Fuel Economy: 16 city/23 highway/19 combined
Price: The 2025 BMW M3 Competition is $80,200 MSRP and $105,875 with all the mentioned options and fees. For more information, visit Bmwusa.com
