2026 BMW M3
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Explore the BMW M3 at BMW of Akron
The M3 has always been the car enthusiasts point to first when they talk about BMW's performance credentials, and this generation keeps earning that reputation. Our team spends a lot of time walking shoppers through the three distinct ways to spec this car, since the differences go well beyond a simple horsepower bump.
Three Ways to Build It: Manual, Competition, or Competition xDrive
The standard M3 pairs 473 horsepower with a genuine six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive, the purist's choice. Move to the Competition and you get 503 horsepower with an eight-speed automatic, still rear-wheel drive. The Competition xDrive tops the range at 523 horsepower with all-wheel drive for stronger traction in less-than-ideal conditions, a detail worth considering here in Northeast Ohio once winter sets in.
A Heated Steering Wheel, Now Standard Across the Lineup
Every 2026 M3 gets a heated steering wheel as standard equipment, a small but genuinely appreciated addition once temperatures drop. Remote start also becomes standard on both the Competition and Competition xDrive, so you can warm the cabin up before you even walk outside.
Updated iDrive 8.5 and Wireless Charging
Every trim now runs BMW's latest iDrive 8.5 software across a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and 14.9-inch touchscreen, and wireless phone charging comes standard. It's a meaningful step up in day-to-day usability without changing anything about how the car actually drives.
Let Us Help You Pick the Right Configuration
Choosing between the manual and the two automatic versions genuinely comes down to how you plan to drive the car day to day. Our team can put you behind the wheel of more than one configuration back to back so you can feel the difference firsthand before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the 2026 BMW M3
What's the difference between the M3, Competition, and Competition xDrive?
The base M3 has 473 horsepower with a six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive. The Competition raises output to 503 horsepower with an automatic transmission, and the Competition xDrive adds all-wheel drive with 523 horsepower.
Can you still get a manual transmission M3?
Yes, the standard M3 comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, while the Competition and Competition xDrive are automatic-only.
Is the M3 all-wheel drive?
Only the Competition xDrive trim offers all-wheel drive. The standard M3 and Competition are rear-wheel drive.
What technology comes standard on the 2026 M3?
Every 2026 M3 includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 14.9-inch touchscreen running iDrive 8.5, a heated steering wheel, and wireless phone charging.
How many people does the M3 seat?
The M3 seats five, since it's built on the four-door 3 Series sedan body.