2009-2012 or 2013+?

[k0r3an4ev3r]

So, I'm in the market for a "newer" DD (current vehicle, E36 M3 Sedan) and been eye-ing out the GC. Before you yell "SEARCH NOOB", all the threads I've read was either from 2012 or earlier or trolls trolling or just did not have the answer I was looking for.

I've got the basic info, 2013+ (2.0T/3.8) has more HP than the 2009-2012's,
updated look (subjective), updated interior, etc. My question is, now being mid-ish 2016, which do you prefer (reliability, HP, look, etc.) and why? Not trying to start a flame war between the -2012 and the 2013+, but just looking to see if anyone upgraded from the -2012 to the 2013+ and their take on the switch or vise versa (2013+ to -2012).

I mostly am looking at the 2.0t (haven't owned a turbo car and I think it's about time ), but wouldn't mind a 3.8 as well. I most likely will tinker with the car (mod, tune, etc.). So any help is welcomed and much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

[waz]

I love my 2010 3.8 GT, but if I was in the market now, I'd get a low milage 2012 because of the upgraded interior.

I personally can't stomach the "gaping maw" front end & the "Snidely Whiplash mustache" fake hood scoops of the 2013s onward, but many people like them. Plus, the interior is much nicer in the later editions, and that's where you spend most of your time.

 

[Sal Collaziano]

I'm one of those people who like the newer look (I actually love the hood vents so much that I prefer a lighter color over a darker one which they don't up as well with). But looks are subjective. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

If you're looking to do some tuning and tinkering - I think the 2.0T is the way to go. The 3.8 is a pretty good performer if you're going to keep it relatively stock.

 

[Trgc2015]

I purchased a brand new '15 3.8 last fall. Test drove a '13 2.0t before deciding on the 3.8, which was a demo model with about 9,000 km on it. For me, the difference was night and day. I loved the power delivery of the 3.8. The price was only a few thousand more than the 2013 2.0, which had no doubt been driven hard. 'Out of the box', the 3.8 is a better car, even though the 2.0 is more 'mod friendly'. I guess if you have the money and the time, you can do more with the 2.0, performance wise.
The 13+ models have a much better interior with better quality materials and a more upscale appearance.
Another vote here for the looks of the 13+ model years. I like the wide open grin of the front fascia. Gives the car a more aggressive look. Fake hood vents don't really bother me, nor do I think they add anything to the car's looks.
Just my two cents...