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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  Four Door Sports Car - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By The Barvarian - March 2 - 2:00 am

  I would say this 325I is truly a four door sports car! It drives and acts like a two seater. I had a 91 Maxima that had 4DSC(four door sports car) sticker from the factory. I must say that it wasnt anything close to the perfomance of this 325I. The build quality is great. It just looks so cool sitting in the parking lot. My red 325I will still look good ten years from now. It actually looks more expensive than it was. Take a test drive, then you will understand why the automotive press sings its praises.

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  Truely the Ultrimate Driving Machine! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By WakeUpAlone - March 2 - 2:00 am

  Very responsive and fun to drive -- especially on the highways. The best coupe I have ever driven.

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  Love used convertible - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Bill - February 29 - 9:41 pm

  I bought it used with 75k miles and warranty until 100k. Have had only 1 minor problem with O2 sensor, covered by warranty. Very fun to drive, especially with top down. Didnt spend much on it, but everyone thinks Im loaded because I drive a Beamer. No neck snapping acceleration, but slowing down for curves is a thing of the past. People still ooh and ahh over my 8 year old BMW.

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  Re-connected to the Road - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Bill - February 27 - 2:43 am

  Driving this car is pure pleasure. The interior ergonomics are excellent, and very intuitive. The steering, braking and suspension are superb, putting me in very close contact with the road surface. I can feel this car the way a driver wants to, as an extension of my will.

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  I love my 330CiC - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By jspringstun - February 26 - 9:30 pm

  This car is amazing. It was what I wanted for my 16th birthday, and what I was able to purchase for myself for getting into graduate business school. I could not have made a better investment. Not only is the car responsive in its handling but also an eye catching beauty. BMW also strives to employ the best in customer service, so even when there is a minor adjustment to be made, its still an enjoyable experience.

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  Happy so far - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Denny4 - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I compared the 330CI to the G-35-C and was 85% sold in the Infinity. That was before I test drove the 330. Basically the test drive blew me away and I could justify the $7000 price difference. Every day I drive the BMW I feel I made the right choice. The car is fully evolved. Cat quick, handles like a dream, great exterior and interior styling. The dealer has been terrific.

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  Great Ride, once you replace the tires - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Kevin - February 23 - 5:19 pm

  First BMW, bought after much research, to replace a faithful Nissan Maxima, which I loved. Best car Ive ever owned or driven. I had reservations from the start about the Run Flat tires. Nobody will repair them, they ride harsh and loud, tramlining is horrible, they only last 12k miles, and are very expensive to replace. Replaced with regular "go flat" tires, and its like a different car amazing what a difference regular tires makes. Now I just carry a couple cans of fix-a-flat and my triple A card. 2 problems: drivers side mirror and steering wheel lock had to be replaced.

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  Nice car but - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Nice care but - February 23 - 2:13 am

  I truly like my 325i but there are few quirks that come to mind. Sometimes when I insert the key, theres a weird semi-grinding sort of noise behind the steering wheel and I have to reinsert the key, lock the steering wheel (sometimes 2 or three times) to get the engine to start. Runflats were a bad decision. Besides, if you have to put a key in the dash anyway, whats the point of the push button? I have the light grey interior and 2 weeks after I bought the car, the drivers side door handle started to peel.

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  I think I am in love! - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Mrs. White - February 22 - 10:00 am

  This is the most wonderful driving expeirence I have ever had. I have had this car for almost 2 weeks and I just love to drive it. It handles like you would not believe and looks good doing it. My husband brought it as a Christmas gift and had driven it more than me. We are having a ball! Thanks BMW. I think that we will stay in the family.

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  Excellent Entry in BMW - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Kevin - February 20 - 8:09 am

  This is an extremely excellent vehicle. The maintenance program is by far the most superior program ever. I have only paid for tires since owning this car. I am tall, 64". I am ready to upgrade to a larger model. That is my only complaint, is that it is a little tight for taller people. I knew that when I bought the car, so I cant complain. This is an excellent start for someone that wants to get into a high performance luxury vehicle.