Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2019 BMW M3
With an overall Carivo score of 7.5/10, the 2019 BMW M3 earns a Recommended rating among the sportss we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 9.1/10, while Reliability at 6.3/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.3/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 7.6/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
The 9.1/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a sports you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology scores 8.3/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $65,365–$75,681, 15 MPG, seating 5, the BMW M3 sits in the luxury tier of the sports market. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 7 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Think of the 2019 BMW M3 as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in value and reliability are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sportss
The 2019 BMW M3 ranks #204 of 316 sportss in the Carivo database — better than 36% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is 0.2 points below the segment average of 7.7/10. Its $65,365 starting price is about 42% above the segment's median of $46,090.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which M3 Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2016 BMW M3 scores 7.5/10 — within striking distance of the 2019's 7.5 — and starts roughly $7,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Fuel economy at 15 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
Common Questions — 2019 BMW M3
Is the 2019 BMW M3 reliable?
We rate the 2019 BMW M3's reliability 6.3/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2019 BMW M3 worth buying?
It scores 7.5/10 overall, ranking #204 of 316 sportss in our database (better than 36% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2019 BMW M3 cost?
The 2019 BMW M3 starts at $65,365 and ranges up to $75,681 across trims (MSRP when new). At 15 MPG, expect roughly $3,500/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which M3 years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest M3 years we've rated are 2015 (7.4/10), 2019 (7.5/10), 2017 (7.5/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.0/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — BMW M3
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Similar Sports to Consider
Other sportss at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
