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

The £48k VW Golf GTI Edition 50 is Pagani quick around the Nürburgring
Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50
News

The £48k VW Golf GTI Edition 50 is Pagani quick around the Nürburgring

Volkswagen let the Mk8 Golf GTI off its leash with the hardcore, track-honed Edition 50, and its new Nürburgring lap time proves just how effective th…
7 May 2026
This unseen Slovenian tech is about to change cars forever, and I've already tried it
In-wheel motors
Features

This unseen Slovenian tech is about to change cars forever, and I've already tried it

In-wheel motors promise a revolution in vehicle dynamics, offering lightning-fast control and superior grip for performance hybrids and EVs. I put it …
6 May 2026
New Aston Martin DB12 S review – Forget Bentley, Ferrari should be worried
Aston Martin DB12 S front
Reviews

New Aston Martin DB12 S review – Forget Bentley, Ferrari should be worried

Comprehensive dynamic upgrades not only make the new Aston Martin DB12 S a better GT car, but it’s now a far better performance car, too
6 May 2026