2009 BMW M3 Sedan Review | Buyer Guide
Sports Car Performance, Everyday Usability
The BMW M3 coupe and convertible are sports car that many driving enthusiasts would give their eyeteeth to own. But supposing you’re a hot shoe with a family, and really need a sedan. Well, now you can buy an M3 with four doors. After a hiatus of over a decade, BMW has reintroduced the M3 sedan. It joins the coupe and convertible for the 2009 model year.
In the past, you might have mistaken an M3 for one of the other 3-Series models, but no more. The current M features a power bulge and air vents on the hood, indicators of the V-8 engine that lurks below. Other telltale signs include a rear-deck spoiler and four tailpipes.
The interior of the M3 is similar to that of a 335i,with the exception of the sport seats and a thick, meaty steering wheel. The seats are clad in leather, with cloth inserts, and well bolstered for spirited driving. Like other models in the 3-Series, the M3 cabin has its drawbacks. Storage space is minimal, the dash looks a bit low-rent and the backseat isn’t very roomy. Yet, with the rear doors on the sedan, the back is easier to access.
But the interior’s shortcomings are minimized by the mechanical excellence of this Bimmer. Under the hood, a 4.0-liter V-8 revs up to 8300-rpm, and pumps out a heart-stopping 414 hp. It’s teamed to either a 6-speed manual gearbox, or a 7-speed automated manual. Either one of these power trains will propel the M3 to 60 in less than five seconds.
My test car came with the automated manual—a technology derived from Formula One racing. Although you will find no clutch pedal on the floor, this tranny is not like a conventional automatic. It is a manual system that uses two clutches—one that grabs the gear you are in; the other grabs the next gear in line. Lightening-quick gear changes come via paddle shifters on the steering wheel, or you can select the automatic mode, and let the transmission shift for itself.
Complementing the marvelous power train is an equally outstanding suspension system. It features electronically controlled shock absorbers that enables the driver to select three different settings. “Comfort” is really what most drivers would consider to be firm. “Normal” is actually extra firm, and “Sport” is what you would use in very aggressive driving.
Tackling a winding road, the M3 seems to anticipate your every wish. It feels perfectly balanced transitioning through switchbacks. The steering is surgically precise, and places the car exactly where you want it. And when you need to stop, the brakes will haul you down from 60 in a little over 100 feet. The M3 is a car that makes you feel like a better driver than maybe you really are.
The base price for the M3 sedan is $56,975. If you go with the automated-manual transmission it’s $59,875.
Snapshot Review
Outstanding Power Train
Superb Handling
Disappointing Interior
