Skip advert
Advertisement

F80 BMW M3 review (2014-2018) - design

The latest updates to this performance car icon have improved it greatly, it now has the composure to match its mighty performance

Evo rating
RRP
from £59,860
  • Tough looks and incredible performance
  • Snappy DCT 'box

The M3’s bumpers are almost as complicated looking as an F1 car’s wing, with multiple intersecting parts, vents and scoops. It means the F80 isn’t as clean or as elegant as previous versions of the M3, but it certainly looks mean and purposeful.

A lot of that aggression comes from the M3’s flared arches, which are more significant than those of its coupe alternative, the M4. Both the M3 and M4 share the same suspension and track width, however the standard 3-series is narrower than the basic 4-series and so the saloon’s arches have been stretched even further to cover the wider M-car track.

Coupled with a low, nose down stance and a set of aerodynamically shaped mirrors the F80 looks appropriately tough and sporty, just like an M-car should.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Differentiating the facelifted, 2018 model-year car from earlier versions of the F80 M3 is a task for dedicated BMW fans. The most obvious changes are limited to the front light clusters that includes LED headlights and light bars for the daytime running lights. 

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Jaguar F-type (2013 - 2024) review – a sleek sports GT for family hatch money
Jaguar F-type P450 FF – front tracking
In-depth reviews

Jaguar F-type (2013 - 2024) review – a sleek sports GT for family hatch money

Jaguar’s last sports coupe is a modern day icon. Fresh in the memory though it is, it’s sorely missed by enthusiasts
28 Oct 2026
New Toyota Celica – Japan’s secret Porsche rival is on the way
Toyota Yaris M/ Celica mule
News

New Toyota Celica – Japan’s secret Porsche rival is on the way

With the new race-proven G20E engine in the middle, what was thought to be the next MR2 may well be called ‘Celica’
26 Oct 2026
Range Rover Sport Electric review – a Porsche Cayenne’s worst nightmare
Range Rover Sport Electric
Reviews

Range Rover Sport Electric review – a Porsche Cayenne’s worst nightmare

Like its full-sized big brother, the Range Rover Sport is now available with an all-electric powertrain, and it’s good enough to tempt you out of a V8
28 Oct 2026