The depreciation curves have always made BMWs a good buy on the used market. But as we enter 2026, there are better options than ever before. In recent years, the BMW catalog has quietly created a perfect storm for enthusiasts: modern performance, real everyday usability and even general durability and reliability are hallmarks of the brand. Looking to the future, some newer BMW models – many wearing M or M-adjacent emblems – are slipping into price ranges that would have seemed absurd just a few years ago. From compact coupes to V8-powered flagships, there are several models worth keeping an eye on in 2026. And in some cases, cars that may not remain as affordable for much longer.
F87 BMW M2
We’ve already talked a little about what a performance bargain a used F87 M2 is. But it’s worth repeating – especially because it’s such a good car and will probably increase in value over time as people realize what a gem it was. We will instead use this space to talk about the M2 competition. It is still in a devaluation phase – but probably not for long. The S55 powered car has a little more power, but weighs a little more and feels very different overall than the N55 powered original. Think “baby M4” and not “modernized E46”. While the debates about which is “better” will rage and continue, it’s a waste of time: both are excellent cars and will continue to be incredible values in 2026.
F91/F92/F93 M8
The modern BMW 8 Series is leaving production, but used examples still have a long life ahead of them. While we’ll miss any version of the BMW 8 Series, what we’ll crave most is the M8 (and perhaps the excellent ALPINA B8 Gran Coupe). Luckily, a used copy is much easier to obtain than something new. After all, its high six-figure price tag will eventually be less than half that amount. The M8 is quickly approaching the can’t-lose price, with well-worn examples fetching less than $60,000 at the time of writing. The standout bargain, as always, is the convertible, but coupes and Gran Coupes will be joining there soon – most likely in 2026.
In case you forgot, the BMW M8 is mechanically identical to its contemporary BMW M5, the F90. The 4.4-liter S64 twin-turbo V8 produces over 600 horsepower, allowing the car to rocket from zero to 60 miles per hour at supercar speeds. Seriously: Car and driver managed a 0-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds, rivaling the Ferrari F8. With 10.7 seconds, it also achieved the quarter-mile time of the Corvette Z06. That’s very fast by any standard, but it’s incredible when you consider that you can get a great device for around $80,000 today. Look for prices to get even better in 2026.
F22 BMW 2 Series
The M2 is so good and deservedly steals the spotlight from its contemporary non-M-2 series. However, the F22 BMW 2 Series is a seriously overlooked car. The M240i and M235i are great budget alternatives to the M2, although the M240i is still priced a little too close to the M2. Meanwhile, the M235i with coilovers and traction tires is only 9/10 away from an M2. Then there are the real sleepers: the 228i and the 230i. We prefer the 230i because the B48 has a better engine overall than the N20, but both are available for well under $20,000. Both deliver excellent dynamics – if not quite the raw speed you’ll find in our previous mentions. Still, these cars probably won’t go unnoticed for much longer. When the last good E82 1 Series disappears, enthusiasts will switch to this one. Grab one while you can in 2026!
F90 BMW M5
Even though it’s more or less the same car as the M8, the M5 badge means a lot. The same goes for its more traditional design – although the M8 is anything but an ugly duckling. In any case, the same good things apply to the F90 M5; To put it bluntly, a pulsating V8 and unwavering all-wheel drive that combine to deliver truly first-class straight-line performance. It’s also a real eye-catcher in the corners, even if it’s a little heavier than the M5 from before. When I looked up pricing for the F90 M5, I had to look again; They hover at and under $40,000, which is frankly a ridiculous price for such a divine performance car. I think we will discuss the F90 M5 again soon in its own article. Regardless, these cars will continue to lose some value – making them a great choice in 2026.
G20 BMW 3 Series
The G20 BMW 3 Series is one of the best buys in any price range today. The first highest-mileage 330i models are priced at $15,000, which doesn’t make them unbeatable in any respect. The 330i is even tamer than the F22 2 Series, but still a good sports sedan. And let’s be honest: the price can’t be beat. Meanwhile, the M340i is quickly becoming the bargain performance sedan of the decade. In 2026, prices will continue to fall as these cars are still far from experiencing maximum depreciation. But it might be worth grabbing a good copy while there are still plenty of them around.
Cars are more expensive than ever. But there are still some good deals to be found on the used BMW car market – as long as you’re willing to wait and know what you’re looking for. There is something for everyone in 2026. Whether it’s outright performance or everyday practicality, there’s a solid BMW selection in almost every price range.
