BMW M3 Competition Pack

The Competition Package costs an extra £3,315. And while that may seem a lot, the revised suspension and electronic systems will really aid keen drivers. BMW expects around half of M3 Coupé buyers to opt for the upgrade package, and while the benefits will only be felt by those seeking to get the most from their supercoupé, the recalibrated software, CSL-inspired alloys and lowered suspension combine to offer the ultimate M3 experience.

The march of M Division goes on! Although BMW’s famed performance arm has been busy creating M-badged versions of the X5 and X6 SUVs, plus working on a top secret turbo-powered new M5, it hasn’t neglected its best-selling model, the M3.

BMW has added a driver-focused Competition Package to the options list, putting the M3 head-to-head with Audi’s RS5 Coupé. And Auto Express is first to put the upgrades to the test.

The howling 414bhp V8 that features across the M3 range remains unchanged, but now benefits from a fuel-saving stop-start system. The Competition Package is only available on the Coupé, and focuses largely on the bits that you can’t see.

M Division has been working on the car’s three-stage electronic dampers, and recalibrating the Sport mode for even sharper responses. The suspension has also been lowered by 10mm.

To complement the revised suspension, the car gets uprated software for the stability control. The DSC+ system now has a special MDynamic mode which allows the rear wheels to slide more before the traction control kicks in, making the most of the M3’s phenomenal grip.

To ensure visual differentiation between the Competition Package car and the standard model, the upgrades include a set of lightweight 19-inch alloys inspired by those fitted to the previous generation M3 CSL.

Our example also featured a new Frozen Grey matt paint finish. It’s expected to cost around £900, and does help to accentuate the M3’s curves. Although it’s based on the standard 3-Series Coupé, only the doors, glass and bootlid are shared. The M3 gets added purpose from the power dome and vents in the bonnet, flared wheelarches, quad exhausts and a carbon fibre roof, which shaves 5kg from the kerbweight.

The latest M3 still looks stunning, but we’ll have to wait until it’s parked next to Audi’s challenger to see which one wins the visual battle.

On the road, the M3’s talents shine through. The steering is light and very direct with plenty of feedback, while the optional seven-speed twin-clutch gearbox, operated via steering wheel-mounted paddles, offers virtually instant shifts.

The engine is superb, whether burbling along in the background as you cruise along the motorway, or hitting the 8,400rpm red line at the track. It sounds glorious and delivers seamless power.

The engine sounds best at high revs, which is when the Competition Package upgrades have most effect. The dampers smother bumps at speed, while the electronic intervention available helps to boost driver confidence should you breach the grip of the tyres. The DSC+ system leaves the M Sport differential to do its work, too, maximising traction in bends.

The M3 is a terrific all-rounder, offering stunning performance in a practical body. To really exploit all the Competition Package has to offer, you have to be on a race track, although many buyers will be seduced by the stylish CSL alloys alone.

Rival: Audi RS5
With its thrilling all-weather pace, the RS5 offers incredible performance with real security, no matter the conditions. Crucially, that doesn’t come at the expense of fun – but the RS5 lacks the BMW’s ultimate driver focus.