2006 BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
446 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The BMW 3 Series sedan and wagon have been completely redesigned for 2006. Major highlights include new features, more powerful engines, a slightly larger interior and the incorporation of BMW's latest exterior styling elements. The 3 Series coupe and convertible are unchanged this year but will eventually move over to the new platform being used for the sedan and wagon; expect to see a new hardtop convertible for the 2008 model year.

Pros:
  • Still the standard when it comes to perfectly sorted vehicle dynamics, high-quality interior materials, wide range of configurations to suit any style, available all-wheel drive for sedan and wagon.
Cons:
  • Still costs more than most of its competitors, lacking in interior storage space.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 446.00
  • Adios, Bimmer - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    My 1st Bimmer & due to RFTs, my last. I enjoy driving long distances on week-ends & wanted to experience the ultimate driving experience after 20 yrs w/ Audis. I liked the power and pep, but its not my preferred ride in wet or snowy roads. The RFTs are nice but the ride is so rough on less than perfect roads, it outweighs everything else. Dissatisfaction shows: 24K miles after 4 years. I use non-RFTs now w/ a jack & spare, w/c BMW does not offer, until trade-in time. Bottom line: too much money for mediocre design/planning, arrogant & unfriendly customer service.

  • Nice car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    No major issues with the car in 4 years. Bridgestone run flat tires started "cupping" at 16,000 miles creating more noise. BMW gave 50% discount on new Continental tires which are holding up well. The run flat tires have a harsher ride than I would like. Fun to drive and gets around 22 MPG in the city and around 30 MPG on the highway. Great brakes. BMW free maintenance program works well and oil changes and wipers are replaced without complaint. Only other warranty claim was to replace front door armrest where the plastic was looking tacky.

  • one year update - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I still love the car the same as the day I bought it! It is fun to drive. It runs even better now than when it was new, but it is still very tight. I had absolutely no issues with the vehicle. I average about 25 MPG, 90% city driving (not too rough, but some sports driving). The tires still look good with 7500 miles on them, Id expect at least 25k miles out of them. I like the transmission, but it takes some getting used to. One thing to note is that the BMW recommends the oil change every 15k miles, but my computer has come down from 15k to 14, 13 and now it is at 12k. The AC is powerful, and quickly cools it down. The radio/CD is great for the standard one. Perfect brakes.

  • BMW 330xi - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I recently had my second child so I needed to upgrade to a bigger car, Im coming from a 2004 325ci. I was really excited to move to a bigger car with more power and a manual transmission. However, the first corner I took almost made me regret my decision. I did not realize how much of a difference the sport suspension made. Therefore, I wanted to warn any potential buyer to make sure you do not want the sports suspension. The car is fine and still fun to drive, however, I do miss the sport suspensions. FYI... the xi does not come with sport suspension.

  • The Reference Car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Driving BMW is as if you own the road. So far, I have been in full control of the car under all conditions, including on snowy and icy roads. The highway mileage is beyod expectation. In short, the car is a joy to drive.

  • I call it my elegant little tank. - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    After 20-plus years of driving and loving Honda Accords, I decided to go the BMW 330i route, and so far it is great. It drives as if it is a slot car on a track. Very stable, solid, responsive ride. The 255 hp inline 6 is marvelous. The look is smart. The interior, though, has less storage space than my last Accord (1998) but I am getting used to it and dont consider it a problem -- I dont know where they could build in more interior space. The electronic controls are marvelous, though one has to think a bit like a computer geek to grasp it all. My only problem so far (I have fewer than 1,000 miles on it) is that the power seat memory doesnt work. Needs a fix, which I am waiting for.

  • My first 200 miles - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I just got my new 2006 330i and love it so far. I love the active steering and the aluminum trim (it goes perfectly with the grey interior). BUT one thing I realize I dont like is the ride - I did NOT get the sport pkg. but it rides like a buckboard in regular driving situations. I now wish I had bought something else such as the new Infiniti M. Its too bad that BMW took the perfect car (on so many things I like) and have made it way too bouncy for comfort - I am not expecting a Cadillac but this rides worse than my BMW 540 with the sport package.

  • A drivers wagon - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This has to be the best 3 series by far, and the best looking wagon out there. Handling, performance and fit and finish are first rate. The options are pricey but fun, especially the panorama sunroof (not available on the sedan due to its size). Sport package is worth it for the wheels and seats. Logic 7 sound system is remarkable.

  • Love this car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    We had a Camry. This rides so much better and is more comfortable. FREE maintenance. Dual zone air conditioning. VERY adjustable seats and steering column. On Board computer--NO DIPSTICK---run flats

  • Is BMW taking its customers for granted? - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I was excited to purchase my third 3 series, but the excitement wore off pretty quickly, as I discovered that the pain of the rough ride more than offset the fun of the handling. I have had petty-but-significant problems with the car and a very poor dealership warranty response to things that have just taken the fun out of the car. While the handling is good, the fun of the handling is more than offset by the rough ride. The tires were defective, but no one told me and I had to pay a pro-rata portion to replace them as a result. The radio failed, sun roof failed, steering interlock failed - all within months of purchase. BMW quality control is questionable. Next time I will buy a Lexus!

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