Time flies, doesn’t it? It feels like just yesterday when manual transmissions were the norm in performance cars, and automatics were barely an afterthought. Now, the tables have turned, and manual cars are becoming a rarity. The 2022 BMW M3 base model, equipped with a stick shift, might just be the last of its lineage.
But is that necessarily a bad thing? Perhaps, it’s simply time for a change. Let’s delve into a detailed review of the 2022 BMW M3 base, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it truly captures the essence of an M3, even with a manual gearbox in a world moving towards automatics.
2022 BMW M3 Base: A Quick Overview
The Good:
- Versatile performance for daily driving and track days.
- Comfortable and refined for a high-performance sedan.
- Supercar-level acceleration suitable for various driving scenarios.
- Offers good value within the performance sedan segment.
The Not-So-Good:
- Ride can be firm in certain driving modes.
- Manual transmission may not be the most engaging aspect.
- Noticeable turbo lag below 2,500 RPM.
Soul Score: 8/10
While the manual transmission might not be the star of the show, the overall package is compelling, making it a great all-rounder even if it slightly sacrifices ultimate speed compared to automatic versions.
Diving Deeper into the 2022 BMW M3 Base Experience
The decision to opt for a manual transmission in a modern performance car is often driven by nostalgia and a desire for driver engagement. When considering the 2022 M3, the manual was almost a default choice for enthusiasts who believed this generation might be the last to offer it. BMW likely shared this sentiment, as the manual transmission in the G80 M3 is largely carried over from the previous F80 generation with only minor refinements.
However, choosing the base M3 with a manual does come with a slight compromise in power. While Competition models boast 503 horsepower, the base M3 produces 474 horsepower. Torque figures are also slightly lower. This power difference means the base manual M3 won’t be as quick off the line as the xDrive Competition models, but it remains a genuine M3 in every other sense, delivering exhilarating performance and driving dynamics.
The author’s personal journey with this 2022 BMW M3 base is coming to an end as they transition to a 2025 M3 Competition, making this review a farewell to the manual G80 M3 on Machines With Souls.
Performance Review: A Jack-of-All-Trades
Performance Score: 8/10 – Master of None, But Excellent at Many
The 2022 BMW M3 base model excels as a versatile performer. It might not be the absolute best in any single performance metric compared to specialized sports cars, but it delivers a compelling blend of speed, handling, and daily usability.
Engine Performance: The Potent S58
The heart of the 2022 M3, the S58 engine, is a powerhouse. While the base model’s version produces slightly less power and torque (473 hp and 406 lb-ft) compared to the Competition, it’s still an immensely capable engine. Think of it as having a bazooka instead of a mini-gun – both deliver significant firepower.
The S58 has quickly gained a reputation akin to the legendary 2JZ engine, known for its robust construction and tuning potential. It can handle substantial power increases without requiring major internal modifications. However, with the manual transmission in the base M3, pushing for extreme power upgrades might be somewhat redundant for a daily driver, as it would necessitate clutch upgrades and increased physical effort.
One characteristic of the S58 engine is its slight turbo lag below 2,500 RPM. This lag is more pronounced with the manual transmission, requiring more frequent gear changes to stay within the engine’s optimal power band. Once above this threshold, the engine unleashes a surge of power that feels remarkably linear for a turbocharged unit, almost mimicking the responsiveness of a naturally aspirated engine. While some may yearn for the iconic sounds of older M engines, the S58 deserves recognition as a modern classic in its own right.
The factory exhaust note, however, is on the quieter side. Enthusiasts seeking a more aggressive sound might consider aftermarket exhaust modifications to enhance the auditory experience.
Transmission: A Decent Manual, But Not Class-Leading
The manual transmission in the 2022 M3 base is functional and adequate, but it doesn’t stand out as a highlight. It’s not the worst manual available, offering a degree of directness, but it lacks the engaging and rewarding feel found in some competitors.
Compared to manuals from Porsche or Cadillac Blackwing models, the BMW M3’s manual feels less refined. The clutch travel is long and engagement point is high, potentially requiring drivers to sit closer to the steering wheel than preferred. The shifter is direct but lacks a strong sense of mechanical connection. While refined and smooth, it misses some of the tactile feedback and personality that enthusiasts crave in a manual gearbox.
The shifter design itself is a familiar tall and somewhat dated shape. While aftermarket short-shift kits can improve the feel and aesthetics, the fundamental characteristics of the transmission remain.
Chassis and Steering: Precision and Control
The steering in the 2022 M3 is quick and precise, typical of modern BMWs. While critics often point out the lack of steering feedback in contemporary BMWs, in daily driving scenarios, the M3’s steering is effective. The absence of excessive vibration and tactile feedback can even be seen as a benefit in maintaining composure. Sport mode primarily adds weight to the steering rather than enhancing feel.
The base M3 shares the same suspension setup as the Competition model. In Comfort mode, the suspension might feel too soft for spirited driving. Sport mode offers a noticeable improvement in body control and firmness, becoming the preferred setting for most driving situations. Sport Plus mode, however, can make the ride excessively stiff for public roads.
For drivers seeking even sharper handling, the M Performance suspension upgrade lowers the car and further reduces body roll, enhancing stability and cornering prowess. With this upgrade, the M3 can challenge even dedicated sports cars on track. Despite its size, the M3 shrinks around the driver as speeds increase, a hallmark of the M3 lineage. Importantly, even with the M Performance suspension, ride quality remains acceptable in Comfort and Sport modes.
The test car was equipped with Michelin PS4S tires, a favorable choice. The base 18-inch wheels are the same width as optional larger wheels, making larger sizes primarily a cosmetic upgrade.
An advantage of the manual transmission in the base M3 is reduced weight. At approximately 3,840 pounds, it’s about 100 pounds lighter than the xDrive version, contributing to improved agility and responsiveness.
Brakes: Strong Performance with Minor Drawbacks
The standard brakes on the 2022 M3 are powerful and effective, offering customizable feel through different driving modes. However, the need for a “comfort” brake mode in an M car is questionable, as even Sport mode might feel too soft for some.
Despite the high-performance nature of the M3, the rear calipers are single-piston units, even with the optional carbon-ceramic brakes. A common complaint is brake squeal, particularly from the rear brakes.
Overall, the 2022 BMW M3 base is a well-rounded performance sedan. It might not offer the ultimate driver feel in every aspect, but it’s incredibly fast, stable, and engaging enough for daily enjoyment. Its versatility makes it a car that can be driven and enjoyed regularly, rather than being reserved for special occasions.
Lifestyle and Practicality: An M3 That Fits In
Lifestyle Score: 8/10 – An M3 in Size 5
The 2022 BMW M3 strikes a great balance between performance and practicality, making it suitable for everyday life.
While an M3 wagon would be ideal for maximum practicality, the sedan offers ample space. Rear passenger space is generous, easily accommodating adults or children. The M3 outsells the M4 coupe, highlighting the appeal of its four-door practicality. However, the absence of a rear center armrest, common in regular 3 Series models, is a minor omission.
The front seats are excellent, offering a comfortable and supportive driving position. Unless you specifically require track-focused seats, the standard seats are highly recommended over the expensive carbon bucket seats, which compromise comfort for everyday use. The standard seats offer both heating and cooling, although the cooling function could be more effective.
The trunk space is adequate for daily needs, although not as voluminous as a wagon. The possibility of a future G91 M5 wagon might appeal to those prioritizing cargo capacity.
Fuel Economy: Expect to Pay for Performance
Fuel Economy Score: 5/10 – Suffer More
Fuel efficiency is not a strong point of the 2022 BMW M3, as expected for a high-performance vehicle.
Over three years of ownership, the author averaged 18 miles per gallon in the M3 base manual, mirroring the fuel economy of a previous E92 M3 manual. The EPA combined rating is 19 MPG. The manual transmission version is slightly less fuel-efficient than the automatic Competition model, which achieves the same EPA rating, while the xDrive version is rated at 1 MPG lower.
The fuel tank capacity is 15.6 gallons, which is relatively small, resulting in a limited range of around 300 miles per tank.
Features and Comfort: Well-Equipped, But Keep Options in Check
Features and Comfort Score: 8/10 – Feeling Basic (But in a Good Way)
The 2022 BMW M3 base model is well-equipped, but optioning it heavily can quickly escalate the price.
It’s easy to push the price of a base M3 into six-figure territory with options, but exercising restraint is advisable to manage depreciation. A modestly optioned M3 base in a classic color like Alpine White can be a smart choice.
iDrive 7: A User-Friendly System
The 2022 M3 utilizes BMW’s iDrive 7 infotainment system. Compared to newer BMW models with iDrive 8 and 9, iDrive 7 feels familiar and functional. While newer systems might appear more visually striking initially, iDrive 7’s straightforward interface and physical buttons are appreciated for their ease of use and reduced distraction while driving. The author expresses a preference for iDrive 7 over the newer, more screen-centric systems.
The Merino leather upholstery is luxurious but may show wear more readily than more durable leather options in lower-spec BMWs. Skipping optional extended leather, the Executive package (for features like power trunk), and carbon bucket seats helps keep the price in check without significantly compromising the interior experience. The interior quality is generally high, although the floor mats are noted as subpar.
A notable drawback of the manual transmission M3 is the redesigned center console, which accommodates the gear shifter but results in smaller cupholders. This can be inconvenient for those with larger drinks, as they may interfere with shifting.
Exterior Styling: Bold and Customizable
The exterior of the G80 M3 is undeniably bold and polarizing, particularly the large front grille. The test car is finished in Portimao Blue Metallic, a visually appealing color, although its availability on non-M BMW models slightly diminishes its exclusivity. BMW Individual offers more unique and personalized color options.
Optional carbon fiber exterior trim and carbon-ceramic brakes add significant cost. All M3 models come standard with a carbon fiber roof (a sunroof is optional). Interestingly, the M3 is the only model in the M2/M3/M4 lineup to offer 18-inch wheels as standard. The test car features optional 19 and 20-inch 825M wheels.
While the front grille design initially drew criticism, it has become increasingly accepted. The optional laser headlights are recommended for their improved aesthetics and performance.
The 2022 BMW M3 Base: Accepting the Inevitable Shift
Manual transmissions are not entirely extinct. Porsche is committed to offering them for as long as possible, and other manufacturers like Cadillac and Nissan still provide manual options in certain models.
However, for the author, the era of manual M3s is coming to a close, at least for now. While a dream lottery win might bring a manual Porsche 911 GT3 into the garage, the G80 M3 manual is not considered a particularly special car in itself.
The G80 M3 base manual is a great all-around car, excelling as a daily driver and offering enjoyable performance on back roads. However, the manual transmission doesn’t necessarily enhance the driving experience; it simply adds more effort.
The author reflects that the E46 M3 might have been the last truly great manual M3. Subsequent generations, including the G80, feel like BMW is catering to a dwindling manual enthusiast market without fully committing to an exceptional manual experience.
Despite this, there’s a sense of farewell to the manual M3, with hopes that its next owner will appreciate and skillfully operate the stick shift.
Bonus: Reliability of the G80 M3 Generation
The G80 generation M3 has demonstrated impressive build quality and reliability. The test car experienced no mechanical issues during its ownership, requiring only routine maintenance like oil changes, tire replacements, and spark plug changes. No warning lights or unexpected problems arose, a notable achievement for a BMW, particularly an M car.
Compared to previous generations, like the E92 which was prone to minor issues, the G80 M3 has proven to be significantly more reliable. This positive experience is echoed by other G8X owners, suggesting a general improvement in BMW’s build quality.
2022 BMW M3 Base Specifications
VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, rear-wheel drive, five-passenger, four-door sedan
PRICE
Base: $70,895
As tested: $76,825
POWERTRAIN
3.0 liter twin-turbocharged inline-six
473 horsepower @ 6,250 RPM
406 lb-ft @ 2,650 RPM
Six-speed manual transmission
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.5 in
Length: 189.1 in
Width: 74.3 in
Height: 56.4 in
Curb Weight: 3,789 lbs
FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 19/16/23 MPG
