The BMW M3, a name synonymous with high-performance sedans, continues to captivate driving enthusiasts worldwide. We had the opportunity to spend time with a 2017 model, generously provided by Rybrook BMW Warwick, equipped with the coveted Competition Package. This enhanced version of the F80 M3 promises an even sharper driving experience, building upon the already impressive foundation of the standard model. Let’s delve into whether the 2017 Bmw M3 Competition Package lives up to its legendary reputation and remains a top contender in the performance sedan segment.
Unleashing the Power: Engine and Performance
Under the hood of the 2017 BMW M3 lies a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six engine. In standard guise, this S55 engine produces a formidable 425 horsepower. However, the Competition Package elevates this output to an even more thrilling 444 bhp, accompanied by 406 lb/ft of torque. All this power is channeled exclusively to the rear wheels, ensuring a classic and engaging driving dynamic.
This power translates to blistering performance figures. Equipped with the optional seven-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT), our test car could sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 4.0 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but the M3 feels eager to exceed this figure on derestricted roads. The sensation of acceleration when the turbos spool up is genuinely exhilarating, especially in second gear where the car pulls with immense force.
While the engine is undeniably responsive, the turbocharged nature of the power delivery means there is a degree of turbo lag, particularly noticeable in the more aggressive Sport Plus mode. This characteristic requires a measured approach when exploring the car’s limits on anything but straight roads. However, as you become attuned to the M3’s power delivery, this becomes less of an issue.
One of the joys of the 2017 BMW M3 is its ability to deliver rapid progress even without pushing the engine to its absolute limits. Short-shifting and riding the wave of torque allows for swift and satisfying acceleration, making it a remarkably capable car in various driving scenarios.
Despite its reputation for being demanding in challenging conditions, the M3, even in wet weather, proved surprisingly manageable in Sport mode. The car offered more grip than anticipated, inspiring confidence even on damp surfaces. While ham-fisted throttle inputs are unlikely to be rewarded, a progressive application of power allows you to effectively utilize a significant portion of the M3’s performance, even when grip is compromised.
The driver can select from three engine modes: Efficient, Sport, and Sport Plus. Efficient mode tones down the engine’s responsiveness, making it more suitable for urban driving and traffic. Sport mode sharpens things up and enhances the exhaust note, creating a more engaging driving experience. Sport Plus mode unleashes the full potential of the engine, delivering a more aggressive throttle response and a louder, more characterful exhaust sound, complete with pops and crackles on the overrun. The engine’s bark as it approaches the redline is particularly addictive, adding another layer of excitement to the turbocharged power delivery.
The traction control system in the 2017 BMW M3 is designed to keep things in check. In fully engaged mode, the intervention can be quite abrupt, cutting power drastically when wheel slip is detected. While this ensures safety, it can feel somewhat disconcerting at times. Sport traction mode likely offers a more gradual intervention, but full traction mode is well-suited for everyday driving and less-than-ideal conditions. Sport Plus mode, while exhilarating for spirited driving, can be less smooth around town, emphasizing its focus on outright performance.
Fuel economy in a high-performance vehicle like the 2017 BMW M3 is often a secondary consideration, but it’s worth noting that the car is surprisingly efficient when driven conservatively. The official combined cycle figure is 34 mpg. During a test drive that included highway cruising and some spirited acceleration, an average of around 28 mpg was achieved. Even with more enthusiastic driving and stop-start traffic, fuel consumption remained reasonable, dropping to around 21 mpg – impressive for a car with this level of performance.
Ride and Handling: A Masterclass in Balance
One of the most remarkable aspects of the 2017 BMW M3 Competition Package is its surprisingly comfortable ride, particularly given its performance capabilities. The adaptive M Sport suspension plays a crucial role in this, offering a composed and comfortable ride in all modes, especially Comfort. Even in Comfort mode, agility is not compromised, making it ideal for everyday driving without sacrificing the car’s sporting character. Sport Plus mode does firm up the suspension noticeably, but even then, the ride remains remarkably composed for a car of this performance level. The middle Sport mode offers a subtle difference compared to Comfort, making Comfort the preferred setting for most road conditions.
Similarly, the steering offers three modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus. Comfort mode provides the most natural and intuitive steering feel – it’s precise, nicely weighted, and accurate, making it the ideal setting for most driving situations. Sport mode adds significant weight to the steering, but it feels less natural and can make it harder to judge cornering inputs. Sport Plus mode further amplifies this heavier feel, without adding discernible benefit in terms of feedback or precision. Comfort mode truly shines, offering the best balance of feel and control.
The inclusion of programmable M1 and M2 buttons on the steering wheel is a welcome feature, allowing drivers to save their preferred settings for engine, suspension, and steering. However, it’s worth noting that the car defaults back to Sport settings for everything upon each restart, and there doesn’t appear to be a way to change this default behavior within the iDrive system.
Overall, the 2017 BMW M3 is a joy to drive on twisty roads and remarkably livable as a daily driver, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. The balance between performance and comfort is truly exceptional.
Exterior Aesthetics: Subtlety Meets Aggression
The visual appeal of a car is inherently subjective, and the 2017 BMW M3 strikes a balance between understated elegance and aggressive intent. In lighter colors, like the test car, the M3 can appear relatively subtle, closely resembling a standard 3 Series sedan to the untrained eye. This understated nature can be appealing to those who prefer a more discreet performance car.
However, the M3 offers a range of bolder color options that accentuate its sporty body kit and make a stronger visual statement. Optional carbon fiber exterior elements, such as mirror caps, front splitters, and a rear diffuser, further enhance the car’s sporting appearance, particularly when paired with contrasting paintwork. The carbon fiber roof is a visually stunning and functional addition, reducing weight and lowering the center of gravity.
The Competition Package adds further visual enhancements, including a black kidney grille, black accents around the car, and black quad exhaust tips, contributing to a more modern and aggressive aesthetic. With its widened wheel arches, aerodynamic lips, and rear spoiler, the 2017 BMW M3 possesses an undeniably aggressive stance, especially when configured with the right color and options.
Interior: Premium and Functional
If the exterior of the 2017 BMW M3 can be considered subtly sporty, the interior leans even further towards the familiar BMW 3 Series aesthetic. However, this is not necessarily a drawback. The interior is constructed from high-quality materials, meticulously assembled, and features BMW’s intuitive iDrive infotainment system. Everything is logically laid out, easy to use, and exudes the premium feel expected of a BMW.
The optional carbon fiber interior package in the test car added a touch of sportiness, differentiating it from less performance-oriented 3 Series models. The Competition Package’s lightweight sport seats, adorned with the M logo and M stripe detailing on the seatbelts, are another standout feature. While not the most flamboyant interior design, it is a comfortable and functional space, and the sport seats offer excellent support during spirited driving.
Practicality is another strong point of the 2017 BMW M3. Rear passenger space is generous, and the inclusion of rear doors makes it a practical choice for families or those who regularly carry passengers. The 480-liter boot provides ample luggage space, further enhancing its everyday usability.
Verdict: A True All-Rounder
The 2017 BMW M3 Competition Package stands out as an exceptional all-rounder. It excels as a weekend thrill machine, delivering an involving and exhilarating driving experience on back roads. Keen drivers will appreciate its sharp handling, potent engine, and engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
The engine’s soundtrack, while not as overtly charismatic as some V8 rivals or the previous E92 M3’s V8, is still pleasing and adds to the overall driving experience, even on mundane journeys. The criticisms leveled against its soundtrack in some reviews seem somewhat overstated. The performance is genuinely breathtaking, capable of eliciting strong reactions from passengers. While a more linear power delivery might be desirable for some, the turbocharged thrust is undeniably exciting.
Despite its high-performance capabilities, the 2017 BMW M3 remains remarkably practical, offering the space and versatility of a regular sedan. While a new model commanded a price of around £70,000, nearly new examples could be found for significantly less, making it an attractive value proposition in the used market. For those seeking a truly complete performance car that can handle daily driving duties with ease, the 2017 BMW M3 Competition Package is hard to beat.
A huge thank you again to Rybrook BMW Warwick for loaning the car for this review.
