Overview & Reviews

The BMW 3 Series is the company's top seller in the United States and a favorite in the marketplace for good reason: It's a classy entry-level luxury car endowed with world-class fit and finish, spirited performance and an exquisite ride-and-handling balance unmatched by most vehicles at any price. That's true no matter which model or year you choose, as generation after generation of 3 Series has offered the same benefits despite constant evolution. Accordingly, buying a used 3 Series is a solid bet -- there's nary a bad apple in this barrel.

As for the new 3 Series, it's slightly larger and faster than its predecessor, yet lighter and more fuel-efficient. It also boasts a bolder look inside and out, revised suspension and steering, and more interior space. Although some may argue that the car's sporting edge has been blunted a bit, we still find the 3 Series sedan and wagon exceptionally rewarding to drive. If you're looking for the current coupe and convertible, note that they're now known as the 4 Series and are reviewed separately.

Current BMW 3 Series
Today's BMW 3 Series is offered as either a sedan or a wagon. It's broken down into 320i, 328i, 328d, 335i and ActiveHybrid 3 models. The 320i and 328i sedans and 328i wagon get a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces either 180 horsepower (320i) or 240 hp (328i). The 328d sedan and wagon are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel-powered four-cylinder that also makes 180 hp but considerably more torque; highway fuel economy is impressively in the low 40s. The sedan-only 335i gets a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 with 300 hp. The ActiveHybrid 3 sedan pairs the 335i's engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, resulting in a healthy 335 hp; however, fuel economy is about the same as in the 328i.

Transmission choices are limited to a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic, with the former unavailable in the wagon and ActiveHybrid 3. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all 3 Series sedans, while all-wheel drive is available on the sedan (except the ActiveHybrid 3) and standard on all wagons.

Standard features on the base 320i include alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, manual front seats, leatherette upholstery, Bluetooth and the iDrive electronics interface with a 6.5-inch display. The 328i upgrades to power front seats, while the 335i and ActiveHybrid 3 throw in larger wheels, xenon headlights and a sunroof. As usual, the options lists is long and strong, including everything from a hard-drive-based navigation system with a larger display screen to a Dynamic Handling package with a sport-tuned suspension and variable-ratio steering.

In reviews, we've lauded the exceptionally well-rounded nature of this 3 Series. Whether you're devouring miles on the interstate, running errands around town or making time on your favorite back road, the car always feels up to the task, even if its electrically assisted steering is less engaging than what previous generations of the 3 Series offered. Inside, drivers will find a restrained show of luxury, with an emphasis on comfort and involvement. The supportive seats underneath are complemented by a clean, clear analog gauge cluster dead ahead. The four available design "lines" -- Luxury, Modern, Sport and M Sport -- add visual spice to what has historically been a rather drab interior. Materials and build quality are exceptional; even the standard leatherette (vinyl) upholstery looks and feels better than one might expect.

Overall, if you can afford the price of admission, the BMW 3 Series is still the standard-bearer in the compact luxury-sport class. Thanks to its wonderfully balanced dynamics, powerful and efficient engine lineup and wide range of configurations, the 3 Series earns our very strong recommendation.

Used BMW 3 Series Models
The current, sixth generation of the 3 Series bowed for the 2012 model year. You may have to look twice to tell it apart from the previous generation, but a close inspection reveals a more voluptuous hood and sleeker taillights, among other changes. There's also an overhauled dashboard, revised suspension tuning, a new electrically assisted steering system, BMW's adjustable driving settings and additional feature content. Furthermore, the backseat has been enlarged to accommodate adults with greater ease.

Initially, the current 3 Series was offered in 328i or 335i trim with rear-wheel drive. For 2013, all-wheel drive was added to the roster, and both the 320i and ActiveHybrid 3 sedans debuted. The wagon and the diesel engine were introduced for 2014. Notably, the previous-generation 3 Series coupe and convertible were sold alongside the current-generation cars from 2012-'13, while the 4 Series was readied for production.

The previous, fifth-generation 3 Series debuted in both sedan and wagon form for 2006. Compared to the earlier 3 Series, it boasted bigger dimensions, new styling, updated electronics and improved performance. Originally, the model designations were 325i and 330i. The former was powered by a 215-hp 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, while the 330i featured a 255-hp 3.0-liter inline-6 engine.

BMW introduced the 328i and 335i model designations and associated engines for 2007, as well as the redesigned coupe and convertible. This was the first year for the 328i's 230-hp 3.0-liter inline-6 and the 335i's 300-hp engine. Also, the 3 Series coupe could be equipped with all-wheel drive for the first time.

For 2009-'11, a 335d sedan model was sold that featured a 3.0-liter diesel-powered inline-6 that produced 265 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque. Its blend of power and fuel economy was unmatched at the time. Other changes for 2009 included freshened styling for the sedan and wagon, as well as the debut of the "xDrive" moniker for all-wheel-drive models (replacing 328xi and 335xi). The high-performance 335is arrived for '11, as did slightly better fuel economy for the 335i's turbo engine that year.

This fifth-generation 3 Series provided perfectly sorted vehicle dynamics, strong engines and excellent interior build quality. If that sounds familiar, it's because these qualities have been 3 Series hallmarks for decades. The only notable downsides to the car are limited interior storage space and mediocre rear passenger space, even in the sedan and wagon. Used-car shoppers might want to pay special attention to the iDrive electronics interface that came with the optional navigation system -- it was considerably less user-friendly prior to 2009, so we suggest playing around with it before signing on the dotted line.

The highly regarded fourth-generation ("E46") 3 Series debuted as a sedan for the 1999 model year. The coupe, convertible and wagon models fell in line a year later in 2000. This iteration of the BMW 3 Series never failed to impress as a top choice in the segment. Our editors consistently attested that the E46's world-class suspension, engines, steering and brakes made it a delight to drive, while its interior design and overall quality satisfied those desiring luxury and prestige.

Originally, the available engines included a 170-hp 2.5-liter inline-6 (curiously dubbed the 323i) and a 193-hp 2.8-liter inline-6 in the 328i. You might want to look at the newer models, though -- for 2001, feature content and engine technology were boosted, and all-wheel drive became available. The 2.5-liter model was renamed 325i and produced 184 hp, while the more powerful model was renamed 330i based on its new 3.0-liter, 225-hp engine. An exterior face-lift for sedans and wagons arrived for 2002, with the coupes and convertibles following suit for 2004. Detail improvements like navigation, bi-xenon headlights and rain-sensing wipers helped carry the 325i and 330i BMWs through the remaining few years.

From 1992-'98, BMW's 3 Series was in its third generation ("E36"). Even though these 3 Series models are getting on in years today, they were peerless at the time when it came to combining luxury and sport. Body styles included a sedan, a coupe, a convertible and a short-lived hatchback. Engine choices ranged from a 1.8-liter four-cylinder to a 190-hp six-cylinder. In general, any BMW 3 Series from this generation that's been well maintained and has low mileage remains compelling, though keep in mind that maintenance costs can easily outstrip the car's market value within a few years.

User Reviews:

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  ONE SWEET RIDE!!! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Ride or DIE! - May 6 - 6:36 pm

  This car is a great daily drive. Its sporty and luxurious. Also get great gas mileage for the powerful engine it has.

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  1992 BMW 3 Series - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By khnab2007 - May 6 - 10:05 am

  I bought my baby about 15 months ago and paid 4500 from the dealer for it. The car had 60,000 miles on it when I bought it and I thought I was getting this great deal, it was a BMW! I loaned the money from my aunt who loved the car until it started breaking down! So far I have replaced the fan 4 times in year, the water pump, the radiator twice, and several other things costing me a grand total of 10,000 for 92 that still overheats and has issues!! And the gas mileage is a killer the best I can get is 20mpg on highway! UGH!!! If only I could use unleaded gas maybe itd be better!!

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  Driving a LEMON - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By K Vu - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Biggest lemon I ever bought! My 1st new car a 325I, thought it was a dream. But the dream didnt last long at all! After 4 mo., bout 4000 mi. it became the "CAR FROM HELL". Psgr wind. got stuck, then driver, then rear psgr. To make the matters worse pass. wind. started leaking from rain after repair for sticking. I heard of car pool, but this is ridiculous. To top it all off my dr. side wind. is leaking too, after repair for sticking. Still leaks after 9 repairs. Now waiting for response for Lemon Law Case from BMW attorneys. Theyll try to fight it but dont give in! If you have this car you def. have a case against them & will WIN!

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  As sour as a LEMON - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By yan94us - May 4 - 2:00 am

  AT the time of this writing we were in process of a settlement from BMW on the LEMON weve filed on our car. First, the front driver-side window didnt work. Then, the front passenger-side didnt work, we were told the regulator for both sides went bad. Eventually, all four regulator was bad and replaced. The most important problem we had was the rain leaking through the interior and soaking our front driver- side, the problem never stop since. Also, there were times when we had the BMW emblem falling off, clear coat paint was so thin that bird droppings peeled the paint.

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  Practical Sports Car - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By rauhala - May 4 - 2:00 am

  This is the perfect car for those who love to drive but want the ability to carry people and things. It looks good, goes where you point it, is good on gas, grips the road, has a very high quality "feel" and with the 5 speed manual and glass moon roof it drives like a sports car. It is perfect.

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  no reliability - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By joseuz - May 4 - 2:00 am

  The 03 BMW 330i has been the most unreliable car ive ever owned. Ive had to PUSH THE CAR OFF THE ROAD twice because the fuel gauge and fuel pump sensor problems. The dealer told me BMW knows about the problem and is working on it and the problem only occures in California due to its low emission requirments. I called BMW of N.america and they said they had no knowledge of the problem. The service engine soon light has lit up twice. They replaced a sensor. The light came on again within a few days. I am trading in this car soon. If you live in California consider my experience before you buy a BMW. You might run out of gas and not know it.

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  3 yrs old and going strong - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Connie - May 3 - 11:51 pm

  This car was the first car weve ever bought that cost more than $20K and we remain in love with it 3 years later. It drives like a dream, gets decent MPG (btwn 25 and 30 mpg) and I think it looks very sophisticated for a wagon. There have been a few electrical issues since day 1 that we vaguely annoying but didnt affect performance and which have finally been diagnosed and fixed. All the maintenance and repairs have been covered by the BMW service plan which is unparalleled. We havent had any mechanical problems at all.

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  Great to Look At - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By Ingrid - May 3 - 10:14 pm

  Read the Carfax. Under 50000 miles this 328i 3 series convertible hard top, needed a fuel pump and console. The most uncomfortable seat on trips over say 4 hours for what it is. The design is beautiful but if it is going to have these issues under 50,000 miles forget it. I have to say, I will go back to the Honda/Acura. Bumper to bumper warranties up to 100,000 miles. AT 70000 miles the radio went out which is connected to all the alarms. Brakes were at 5 mm and the dash icon came on and dealer says it will not go out until all is fixed. $4000.00 dollars and they have had my car over 7 days. BMW dealer in Mobile Al says they got a "bad radio" and had to send for another. No loaner cars available to get to work. I will never go back to this dealer. On the recall I received notice from BMW that parts were in for those Takata air bags and the gal making appointments was reading from a script that they didnt have parts. I wound up going to Mississippi to get it fixed Needing repairs so early on the vehicle and having to deal with poorly managed dealership has made my taste for BMW bitter.

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  Not reliable - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By BM - May 3 - 9:29 am

  I bought this car in 2002 because I test drove a friends car and I loved it. Its a true sport sedan, got enough power, it looks really cool and fun to drive. But the car is not reliable. I have put only 47k miles on it and many things broke down I have to replaced alternator, air blower, power window motor, battery twice, front and rear brake twice and expecting another power window motor. I will not buy a BMW any more.

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  Above expectations - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By ShortyLove - May 1 - 5:13 pm

  I have been contemplating buying a BMW for over seven years. I am glad tht I waited. I wanted a vehicle that had performance but I live in the snow belt. I need something so that I can get to work on time. BMW answered my prayers with the 330XI. I have a vehicle that I can drive all year long. This vehicle is just right for me. This vehicle has speed, power, smoothness, and looks. I was thinking about adding some Dinan modifications to it. At this point, I do not think that I need them. I thought at first that I would need more power because I was going from a Chevy truck with a V8. I do not miss the torque of my truck at all.