2006 BMW M3
Editors' rating
Very good
7.7
out of 10
- The good: The 2006 BMW M3 pleases enthusiasts of both performance and technology with near race-spec power and handling. Satellite radio provides a soundtrack to the racetrack, and a rudimentary navigation unit spares drivers the hassle of BMW's iDrive interface.
- The bad: The 2006 BMW M3 is a high-priced, high-performance gas guzzler that can be balky when cold and at slow speeds. The veteran sports car shows its age with the lack of any MP3-playback ability.
- The bottom line: The current iteration of BMW's signature sports car blends competition power and handling with the comfort of a workaday sedan. Cockpit tech is less than impressive for a car with a price tag of nearly 70 grand, and fuel consumption and emissions are high. But it sure is fun to drive.
- Reviewed by:
- Carey Russ
- Edited by:
- Kevin Massy
- Review date: 5/4/06
Design of 2006 BMW M3
Comfort: 7 Performance: 9 Design: 7With its quick acceleration, excellent handling, strong braking abilities, and dynamic stability control, the 2006 BMW M3 has a high level of potential active safety. The actual level is up to the driver and the driver's ability.
Passive safety is ensured by standard dual-stage front air bags and door-mounted front side air bags. Rear-seat side-impact air bags are optional. The convertible features the rollover-protection system, which automatically deploys structural bars behind the rear seats if impending rollover is detected by sensors. The 2006 BMW M3 has not been rated for crash or rollover performance by the U.S. government.
Like all current BMWs, a new M3 is covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty, with full scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance for the same period. Corrosion coverage is for 12 years and unlimited miles.
Buying choices
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