Lexus LS vs BMW M3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Lexus LS
From $199,850
Sedan
Petrol
3.4L V6 Twin-Turbo Petrol
310kW
10 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
480L
BMW M3
From $163,700
Sedan
Petrol
Petrol
353kW
10.1 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
480L
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Price Breakdown
The Lexus LS starts from $199,850 before on-road costs, while the BMW M3 opens at $163,700. That makes the BMW M3 the more affordable entry point by $36,150.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $219,835 and $180,070 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Lexus LS features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the BMW M3 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus LS stands out with wireless charging and Mark Levinson audio that you will not find on the BMW M3. The BMW M3 counters with panoramic roof and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Lexus LS gets leather accented upholstery while the BMW M3 offers merino leather. Climate control is 4-zone in the Lexus LS and 2-zone in the BMW M3.
Drivetrain
The Lexus LS uses a 3.4L V6 Twin-Turbo Petrol producing 310kW and 600Nm of torque, sent through a 10-speed automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5 seconds.
The BMW M3 responds with a Petrol making 353kW and 550Nm, paired to a manual driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds.
The BMW M3 has the clear power advantage at 353kW vs 310kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW M3 is 0.8s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus LS measures 5,235mm long on a 3,125mm wheelbase, 434mm longer than the BMW M3 at 4,801mm (2,857mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus LS generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 480L in the Lexus LS and 480L in the BMW M3.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.2m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,850/year for the Lexus LS and $2,879/year for the BMW M3. That is a $29 annual difference in favour of the Lexus LS.
Estimated annual total: $2,850 (Lexus LS) vs $2,879 (BMW M3). The Lexus LS saves you roughly $29 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years (Lexus LS) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW M3). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus LS if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW M3 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW M3 takes 3 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus LS will save you roughly $29 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus LS and BMW M3?
The BMW M3 is the cheapest at $163,700 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus LS by $36,150.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus LS uses the least fuel at 10L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of Lexus LS and BMW M3 carry a published ANCAP rating yet — check back as they are tested.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW M3 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,800kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The BMW M3 makes the most power at 353kW. The BMW M3 is quickest to 100km/h in 4.2s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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