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2012
BMW M3

Starts at:
$60,100
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New 2012 BMW M3
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr Cpe
    Starts at
    $60,100
    14 City / 20 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Conv
    Starts at
    $68,750
    14 City / 20 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3 2012 BMW M3

Notable features

414-hp V-8
Six-speed manual transmission
Seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission
No 2012 sedan
coupe or convertible only
Distinctive M appearance

The good & the bad

The good

V-8's 8,400 rpm redline
Range of suspension, engine and steering adjustability

The bad

Bulging hood

Expert 2012 BMW M3 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

BMW’s high-performance M3 features V-8 power and returns as a coupe or convertible. A sedan version will not be offered as BMW prepares to introduce a redesigned 3 Series sedan, due in the 2012 calendar year. The four-seat M3 serves as the most powerful version of the 3 Series, with a 414-horsepower, 4.0-liter V-8, a six-speed manual transmission and aggressive styling that’s common to BMW’s M cars. Competition includes the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Lexus IS-F and Chevrolet Corvette.

New for 2012
The elimination of the sedan is the only major change for the M3 line.

Exterior
Except for the chassis, doors, trunk lid and fuel-filler cap, BMW says the M3 doesn’t have any other parts in common with the regular 3 Series. BMW calls the bulge on the M3’s aluminum hood a “powerdome.” It’s flanked by two air intake accents, one on each side of the bulge. Exterior features include:

  • Carbon fiber roof to save weight and lower the center of gravity
  • Large openings in front for increased cooling
  • Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
  • Flared fenders for wide wheels and tires
  • Quad-tipped dual exhaust
  • Lightweight 18-inch wheels with performance tires
  • Available 19-inch wheels

Interior
The driver can choose from a multitude of suspension and engine preferences using MDrive, which controls the electronic stability system, steering response, ride comfort and throttle response. It varies the settings to make the M3 suited for either everyday driving or track duty. Interior features include:

  • Leather-clad interior highlighted with a choice of carbon fiber or wood trim
  • Available stereo options include an 825-watt, 16-speaker system
  • Push-button start
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Available moonroof
  • Available navigation system with iDrive
  • Available iPod and USB adapter


Under the Hood
With 414 hp, the 4.0-liter V-8 revs up to 8,400 rpm. BMW’s double-vanos variable valve timing is used, as are individual throttle bodies for each cylinder that provide improved throttle response. Mechanical features include:

  • 414-hp, 4.0-liter V-8 with 295 pounds-feet of torque
  • Six-speed manual transmission
  • Available seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual with paddle shifters
  • BMW says the M3 goes from zero to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds
  • Electronically limited 155 mph top speed

Safety
As you would expect from a performance car, large four-wheel-disc brakes bring the M3 to a halt quickly. Safety features include:

  • Antilock brakes
  • Electronic stability system
  • Side-impact airbags
  • Side curtain airbags (coupe)
  • Head extensions for side-impact airbags (convertible)

 

2012 BMW M3 review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

BMW’s high-performance M3 features V-8 power and returns as a coupe or convertible. A sedan version will not be offered as BMW prepares to introduce a redesigned 3 Series sedan, due in the 2012 calendar year. The four-seat M3 serves as the most powerful version of the 3 Series, with a 414-horsepower, 4.0-liter V-8, a six-speed manual transmission and aggressive styling that’s common to BMW’s M cars. Competition includes the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Lexus IS-F and Chevrolet Corvette.

New for 2012
The elimination of the sedan is the only major change for the M3 line.

Exterior
Except for the chassis, doors, trunk lid and fuel-filler cap, BMW says the M3 doesn’t have any other parts in common with the regular 3 Series. BMW calls the bulge on the M3’s aluminum hood a “powerdome.” It’s flanked by two air intake accents, one on each side of the bulge. Exterior features include:

  • Carbon fiber roof to save weight and lower the center of gravity
  • Large openings in front for increased cooling
  • Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
  • Flared fenders for wide wheels and tires
  • Quad-tipped dual exhaust
  • Lightweight 18-inch wheels with performance tires
  • Available 19-inch wheels

Interior
The driver can choose from a multitude of suspension and engine preferences using MDrive, which controls the electronic stability system, steering response, ride comfort and throttle response. It varies the settings to make the M3 suited for either everyday driving or track duty. Interior features include:

  • Leather-clad interior highlighted with a choice of carbon fiber or wood trim
  • Available stereo options include an 825-watt, 16-speaker system
  • Push-button start
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Available moonroof
  • Available navigation system with iDrive
  • Available iPod and USB adapter


Under the Hood
With 414 hp, the 4.0-liter V-8 revs up to 8,400 rpm. BMW’s double-vanos variable valve timing is used, as are individual throttle bodies for each cylinder that provide improved throttle response. Mechanical features include:

  • 414-hp, 4.0-liter V-8 with 295 pounds-feet of torque
  • Six-speed manual transmission
  • Available seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual with paddle shifters
  • BMW says the M3 goes from zero to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds
  • Electronically limited 155 mph top speed

Safety
As you would expect from a performance car, large four-wheel-disc brakes bring the M3 to a halt quickly. Safety features include:

  • Antilock brakes
  • Electronic stability system
  • Side-impact airbags
  • Side curtain airbags (coupe)
  • Head extensions for side-impact airbags (convertible)

 

Available cars near you

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
12 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Maintenance
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Certified Pre-Owned Elite with less than 15,000 miles; Certified Pre-Owned with less than 60,000 miles
Basic
1 year / unlimited miles from expiration of 4-year / 50,000-mile new car warranty
Dealer certification
196-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.8 / 5
Based on 18 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.6
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.8
Value 4.4
Exterior 5.0
Reliability 4.4

Most recent

  • Most fun car I have ever owned

    This car is by far the coolest car I have owned to date.Its a luxury car that can change to a fast sports car at a punch of the onboard (M) Button.The sound that comes out of the exhaust is extremely awesome.The comfort of the all Leather seats is unbeatable.Everything about this car screams Quality.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most fun car

    One of the best M’s Bmw has ever made. Mine has no problems ever. Honestly for this price they go for it is totally worth it 100%.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love/hate relationship

    I love, love, loved driving this refined beast! The sound of the V8 at 8,000rpm was music! The handling superb! Then, reality hit- common issues included lower rod bearings, motor mounts, clutch, brake rotors, throttle actuators all cost many Thousands $ each! A very high-maintenance sweetheart. If you wanna play, you must pay!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 2.0
    4 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Wow! What a car

    I traded in a 2015 Acura TLX with advanced package, AWD for the 2012 M3 beast. I was first skeptic thinking of tire noise, why I need it, it seems immature, why in the world I would want one, why I would not go for a later model, why I need to get this specific V8. Then I test drove it and feel in love in less than 10 seconds - that's it. Flooring the beast in M mode was the blast that I had NEVER experienced from ANY vehicle (bear in mind I have owned a 2011 550i, own a current X5 50i, and have driven many cars which claim to have the best in class performance (including the Porche 911). I can attest that this car gives ANYONE the confidence that they are a race driver. Now I now how race drivers begin their driving skills - they get into the best car which GLUES to the ground and they portray confidence. It's the car which bestows confidence - the driver just experiences the little nuances and is deft in navigating the unknown. What an experience. What a vehicle!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Really fun car

    This car is everything I hoped and more. Plenty of tech, plenty of power. Easily upgradable if you have the desire to do so. You will not be disappointed.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great car

    Performance value, comfy ride, lots of power, great handling and overall performance, the electronic suspension (EDC) is really great , it turns the suspension to sport mode for track use
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • The Smilemaker

    When the E92 M3 replaced the E46 I hated it. It seemed big and swoopy and bloated. And a big heavy V8 instead of a smooth yet raucous straight 6? How could M do such a thing? Years passed and I fell in love with the car. Yes it's a V8, but what a V8. It sounds amazing and screams to its 8400-rpm redline. The car itself is heavy but hides its weight well, and it has a ton of mechanical grip. Is it as go-kart like as the older, lighter E36? No, but it's much more powerful and a much nicer car to drive from a comfort perspective. I hope I can somehow keep this car forever. It puts a smile on my face any time I even look at it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Beast of a motor!

    I recently purchased a 2012 BMW M3 and apart from a few issues with the dealership (Seldon Motors in PA, Currently suing them for selling me a $35k car with the catalytic converter removed, so I can't get an inspection anywhere in NY nor PA for that matter) I love the car, handles and drives like it's on rails. The power is surreal and personally once I get this lawsuit out the way I can't wait to enjoy the summer with the top down!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • GT3 Hunter

    Amazing motor with great paneling and brakes for the street. With mild upgrades it can take a GT3 down at the track. Tremendous value with looks to match.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • The Perfect Budget GT Car

    The car perfectly suited for top down cruising in all conditions thanks to its incredible heating system. it's fast, sounds great, and handles perfectly for long road trips. it makes driving a joy!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • M power??

    This car is the beast mode, if you love to drive you?ll have to get this car. This car would make you want to drive alll day
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Have coveted the E92 M3 for a long time

    Beautiful car with stunning performance. Can be driven sedately as a daily driver or wrung out hard on the track and handles both equally well. The M-DCT transmission is quick and makes this car extremely easy and fun to drive. Maintenance isn't cheap, but the performance and usability of this car make it worth it. Car seems reliable so far, and I had a thorough PPI done before purchasing.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2012 BMW M3?

The 2012 BMW M3 is available in 1 trim level:

  • (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2012 BMW M3?

The 2012 BMW M3 offers up to 14 MPG in city driving and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2012 BMW M3?

The 2012 BMW M3 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2012 BMW M3 reliable?

The 2012 BMW M3 has an average reliability rating of 4.4 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2012 BMW M3 owners.

Is the 2012 BMW M3 a good Coupe?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2012 BMW M3. 94.4% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.8 / 5
Based on 18 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.6
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.8
  • Value: 4.4
  • Exterior: 5.0
  • Reliability: 4.4

BMW M3 history

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