After a month behind the wheel of the G80 M3 Competition, it’s time to share some initial impressions. Coming from a background steeped in performance cars, including several generations of M3s and most recently a Porsche 991.2 911 GTS, expectations were high. This review dives into the pros and cons of daily driving the G80 M3 Comp, focusing on what stands out after the honeymoon period.
G80 M3 Competition: The Upsides
The G80 M3 Competition immediately impresses with its everyday usability. Getting in and out is effortless, and the driving position is spot-on for long journeys or quick sprints. Aesthetically, the car is a head-turner. The controversial front grille, once a point of contention for many, has grown into a defining feature that adds to the car’s aggressive and modern appeal. The overall profile is undeniably muscular and stylish, blending sporty aggression with a touch of luxury.
BMW M3 G80 Profile View
Stepping inside, the technology is a significant leap forward, especially when comparing it to the previous generation Porsche 911. The larger iDrive screen is crisp and responsive, and the customizable lighting enhances the cabin ambiance. While there have been minor software quirks, like occasional radio glitches, the overall system is intuitive and feature-rich.
Under the hood, the G80 M3 Competition packs a serious punch. The power delivery is simply phenomenal. Just when you think you’ve reached the limit, the engine unleashes another wave of acceleration. This car is a true beast on open roads and highways, offering relentless performance across the rev range.
The steering in the G80 M3 also deserves high praise. While it might not possess the laser-sharp precision of the 911 GTS, it’s remarkably communicative for a car of this size and caliber. The steering feel is well-weighted, providing confidence through corners. Concerns about numbness or excessive understeer haven’t materialized in real-world driving, especially when equipped with performance tires like the Pilot Sport 4S. For a substantial sedan with a potent engine, the handling is genuinely impressive.
Braking performance is another standout feature. The M brakes on the G80 M3 are exceptionally powerful, offering immense stopping power with great pedal feel. They inspire confidence in spirited driving situations, feeling almost over-engineered for daily use – in a good way.
Overall, the G80 M3 Competition excels as a daily driver that injects excitement into every journey. It’s a car that brings a smile to your face, blending practicality with exhilarating performance.
G80 M3 Competition: Areas for Improvement
However, the G80 M3 Competition isn’t without its flaws. The most prominent and widely discussed issue is the brake squeal. Despite attempts to bed in the brakes properly, the squealing noise persists, especially at lower speeds. For a vehicle in this price bracket, the brake noise is an unwelcome and frankly embarrassing characteristic. The availability of aftermarket solutions, like iSweep brake pads, highlights that this is a known issue that BMW could have addressed more effectively from the factory.
Fuel economy is another area where the G80 M3 Competition reflects its high-performance nature. While not unexpectedly poor, it’s certainly thirstier than some might anticipate. Compared to the 911 GTS, the G80 M3 Comp consumes noticeably more fuel. It’s a factor to consider for those mindful of running costs, though likely not a primary concern for most M3 buyers.
The transmission, while generally competent, isn’t as refined as a PDK. In low-speed maneuvers, such as navigating parking lots or stop-and-go traffic, the gearbox can exhibit some jerkiness. It’s not always buttery smooth, particularly when gently modulating the throttle. However, when driving more aggressively, the shifts are quick and precise, delivering the performance expected from an M car.
G80 M3 Competition: Final Verdict After One Month
To provide a clear picture after a month of ownership, here’s a rating breakdown on a 1-10 scale:
- Power/Performance: 9/10
- Styling: 8/10
- Handling: 8/10
- Brakes: 7.5/10 (Potential for 9 if brake squeal is resolved)
- Comfort: 8.5/10
- Technology: 8/10
- Efficiency: 6.5/10
- Daily Driver-ability: 9/10
- Passenger Comfort: 9/10
- Smile Factor: 8.5/10 (Anticipating a 9+ with brake pad upgrade)
Overall 1-Month Score: 8.2/10
The BMW M3 G80 Competition is a genuinely enjoyable car to live with. While it might not match the outright sports car purity of the 911 GTS, it offers a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and technology that makes it an exceptional daily driver. Addressing minor issues like the brake squeal would elevate the ownership experience even further, but even as it stands, the G80 M3 Competition is a highly impressive machine.
