Is the BMW M3 Competition Available with Automatic Transmission?
For driving enthusiasts, the question often arises: is the BMW M3 Competition available with an automatic transmission? With its reputation for blending power and precision, understanding the drivetrain options is key to making an informed choice.
Is the BMW M3 Competition Available in Automatic? The BMW M3 Competition is predominantly offered with a six-speed manual transmission, maintaining its sporty character and driver engagement. While the manual remains the hallmark, BMW provides a limited automatic variant in select markets, typically featuring a dual-clutch or adaptive automatic system designed to enhance responsiveness without compromising performance. These automatic options cater to drivers prioritizing convenience while preserving the M3’s dynamic handling.
The core M3 Competition lineup emphasizes a six-speed manual gearbox, delivering the precise shifts and engaging driving feel expected from the M3 series. However, for buyers seeking automatic transmission benefits—such as smoother launch and reduced fatigue—a rare automatic version exists, often equipped with advanced torque management systems. These models bridge performance and practicality, appealing to those who value both speed and ease of handling.
Why Choose Automatic in the M3 Competition? Though not standard, the available automatic versions address specific preferences without sacrificing core M3 values. Automatic transmissions enhance accessibility, especially in city driving or heavy traffic, while maintaining the high-revving performance signature of the model. Drivers who prioritize precision shifting and torque delivery can appreciate the refined coordination, even in automatic form.
Automatic variants, when offered, incorporate BMW’s intelligent drivetrain technology—delivering seamless shifts and adaptive power delivery. This allows the M3 Competition to remain competitive in markets where automation is increasingly expected, without diluting its sport-tuned dynamics. For the right buyer, this balance offers a compelling alternative.
While the BMW M3 Competition is primarily a manual machine, an available automatic option exists, tailored for performance-driven drivers seeking convenience. With precise engineering and proven track record, this automatic choice enhances accessibility without compromising the M3’s legendary driving experience. For those drawn to both power and practicality, exploring the available automatic M3 Competition opens a new dimension in performance driving.
Read our 2026 BMW M3 review for information on ratings, pricing, specs, and features, and see how this sedan performed in our testing. The sports car icon with exhilarating performance and unrestricted everyday usability: BMW M3 Sedan and M3 Competition Sedan show just how much racing performance is possible with a BMW 3 Series. This comes courtesy of a High-Performance M TwinPower Turbo engine and highly developed technologies derived from motorsport, such as the M specific suspension with Active M Differential.
The vehicle. The BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive delivers 523 hp thanks to its high-performance 6-cylinder BMW M TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine. Just as impressive, the powerful 503 hp BMW M3 Competition Sedan with rear.
Then we get into what's new: an eight-speed automatic controversially replaces the seven-speed twin clutch, currently a six-speed manual only comes with the non-Competition M3, which isn't. The M3 Competition ($82,600) gets a horsepower boost to 503, though it's only available with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Otherwise, it's nearly identical to the base M3.
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BMW M3 Competition: Everyday Comfort Meets Extra Power If you're looking for the smoothest ride with less effort, the BMW M3 Competition is the better everyday option. It has an automatic transmission, which means no shifting in traffic, and comes with xDrive all. There is only a six-speed manual transmission available.
Even more potent, the M3 Competition's engine produces 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, but it can only be ordered with the eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the M3 Comp, but an all. As much fun as it is to row the BMW M3's gears, we recommend the automatic-only Competition model.
It's quicker, allows a driver to focus more on the task at hand, and is available with all. Conclusion - Automatic vs. Manual in BMW M3 Ultimately, whether you opt for an automatic or a manual transmission in a BMW M3 boils down to personal preference.
Each offers a unique driving experience, and both are built with the same dedication to performance that defines the M3 legacy. What are the key differences between the 2025 BMW M3 Competition and the standard M3? The M3 Competition features a higher horsepower output, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and an available xDrive all.