Advertisement
Find a Car
Go!
2012 BMW M3 Photo

2012 BMW M3 - Quality Review

 Get email updates
Interested in purchasing?Get a Quick Quote
 
Quality Bottom Line
The M3's comfortable front seats and a well-constructed interior are somewhat offset by the cramped rear seats and somber interior atmosphere. Read more »
Meta Rating
8.6
/10
Shopping for a new BMW M3? MSRP: $60,100 - $68,750

GET A FREE PRICE QUOTE

QUALITY | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

All the knobs, switches and levers have a good, solid feel.
Cars.com

Hustle the M3 around town and the firmer ride instantly becomes recognizable. It's not jarring or uncomfortable, just communicative.
Motor Trend

Aside from performance, the M3 is comfortable on the highway and has plenty of space for four adults.
Car and Driver

The seats will keep you in place during aggressive driving and keep you comfortable on long drives.
Automobile.com

I do have one complaint amidst the glowing praise for the M3: BMW needs to revise the clumsy gear selector that has no way to put the car in park.
Automobile Magazine

As much as BMW has built a reputation for well-built, well-designed cars, some of its interiors, particularly the 3-Series, can feel a bit dark and cramped. The 2012 M3 is--or can be, depending on configuration--guilty of this as well.

The darkness issue is easily solved by putting the top down on the Convertible, but the monotone, standard black of the dash and controls can still come off as somber instead of sporty. Optional trim upgrades to carbon fiber, wood, or aluminum relieve this issue somewhat, but not entirely.

The minor drabness issue aside, however, the M3's cabin is well-appointed, and well-constructed. The front seats are very comfortable and supportive, equally suited to long-distance drives and fast canyon runs. Thigh support may be lacking for taller drivers, however, and the rear seats are best used as package shelves or occasional child transport.

Despite the top-notch build quality, engine noise can be an issue at higher speeds or under heavy acceleration. Tire noise is fairly well-controlled, but some surfaces can create drone. All in all, however, noise isn't a serious complaint with the M3--most of the sounds are good ones.

 


Conclusion

The M3's comfortable front seats and a well-constructed interior are somewhat offset by the cramped rear seats and somber interior atmosphere.

Would You Prefer a Free Dealer Price Quote?

Tell us a little bit about yourself

You're almost done!

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself Give us some additional information and we'll give you some dealers near you.
2. Get Price Quotes With competitive price quotes from multiple dealers, you will be prepared when you meet your local car dealer. Note: Dealers who have the car you identified will contact you with prices shortly.
We care about your privacy. By submitting your request, your data will be subject to our Car Quotes Privacy Policy and Terms.
Advertisement
  • New Car Price Quote
Get great deals on the 2012 BMW M3!
By clicking above, you agree that your data will be subject to our Car Quotes Privacy Policy
Advertisement
Related Used Listings
Browse used listings in your area
Advertisement

 
© 2013 The Car Connection. All Rights Reserved. The Car Connection is published by High Gear Media. Stock photography by Homestar, LLC. Send us feedback.