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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  The ultimate driving machine - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By john - January 2 - 10:19 pm

  Zippy fun to drive car! handling is excellent. pick up is decent for a 4 speed automatic, 4cyl car. In my opinion you can hang with any other sports sedan on the freeway with this car. One thing about BMWs that the owner must stay on top of is the maintenace. these are VERY sensitive cars and if you ignore the maintenance the end result will hit you in your wallet hard!

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  IN LOVE WITH MY BMW CONVERTIBLE - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By shari drerup - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I AM TOTALLY IN LOVE WITH MY 325 CONVERTIBLE- DRIVING ALONG CURVY COUNTRY ROADS AT SUNSET IS NOW AN OFFICIAL PASSTIME OF MINE- I NEVER MISS A SUNSET- TOP DOWN- WIND IN THE HAIR- SOUNDSYSTEM BLASTING -AND A VEHICLE TO FALL IN LOVE WITH- HANDLES LIKE A DREAM- NEVER KNEW DRIVING COULD BE SO THERAPUTIC--AND THE BMW 325 CONV. GETS THE LOOKS- TRUCKS HONK- KIDS WAVE- PEOPLE STOP TO WATCH YOU PASS- PEOPLE LOVE THIS BODY STYLE-SO MUCH FUN TO DRIVE- PEOPLE MOUTH TO ME AS I PASS--I LOVE YOUR CAR-----HEAVEN ON 4 WHEELS

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  The Ultimate Driving Experience - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By fjd330Ci - January 1 - 8:11 pm

  I bought this car brand new and have owned it for over 6 years. Driving this car is one of the few enjoyments of going to work in the morning. The maintenace could get expensive so Ive herd, Ive been working on cars as a hobby since before I could drive and do most of my own wrench turning. Ive had some minor mechanical issues that are out side of the routine maintenance stuff that I was able to repair on my own. The only disappointment was the automatic transmission It needed to be replaced after a little over 100K. Lifetime fluid does not mean lifetime. I only have on regret and that is not getting the manual tranny.

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  Four Time Bimmer Owner - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By rggolfguy - January 1 - 9:15 am

  This is my 4th Bimmer and the best performer of the bunch. I have the 6-speed with Sport package. I removed the Pirelli run flats at 25M miles. Was ready to trade for a Lexus. The car was actually dangerous to drive with the Pirellis. With Michelin A/S Sports it drives and rides like a BMW should. It is also now great in MN snow.

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  Ultimate driving machine is no joke - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Allan Adderley - December 29 - 7:06 pm

  Feel very safe in this car. Impeccable handling, great power, and fabulous brakes turn otherwise scary experiences into just gee whiz moments. No fat. No wasted space. Every control feels exactly like you want it to feel and works the way to want it to work. Totally neutral handling at every speed makes you king of the road in the turns. Park it next to a new Mustang, for example, and you will be amazed at how small it is in comparison although it has more room inside. Tight turning radius makes maneuvering in small spaces a breeze. Cars like this just show how far the others have to go. Reliability has been very good with this and my former 2001 330i. Total mileage driven, about 60K.

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  A happy ownership experience - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By BMW in DC Metro - December 28 - 8:49 pm

  After 2 yrs and 40k miles, Ill have to say that Ive been happy with my BMW. A problem early on with some of the fuel system parts, now at 40k peeling paint on a trim strip (will be covered by warranty), and a drivers winow that sometimes goes into "trouble" mode (only goes down about 2 inches until reset) are the only troubles Ive had. Yes, the OEM tires were HORRIBLE, but the car is wonderful after replacing them. The car handles like youve always heard BMWs do, the engine is sweet. Complaints? Few. Cupholders are annoying, as is the "freeze warning" that chimes whenever the temp drops below 37 degrees. Paint quality is not great. But I LOVE the car!

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  BMW DEALER SHOULD DO MORE RESEARCH - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By ET - December 27 - 11:33 am

  I have the same problem like other Bmw 325xi owner. The Run-flat tires. I had similar problems like everyone with the tires, but I replaced with dealer-recommended Continental which are run-flat as well. The dealer charged me around 1095 dollars to replaced the Bridgestone tires. The dealer said normally charge $75.00 per tire. Run flat tire is cost more money. $110.00 per dollars. Labor cost is too much. Bmw should pay for tires and labor. Bmw put the wrong tires on this car. Please do more research. The performance of this car is very good. The price is cost more than other car.

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  Bavarian Headache - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Kline47 - December 27 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful, graceful, hard charging people mover. Ergonomics are perfect and interior finish superb. Most comfortable and fun BMW Ive owned.....when it isnt in the shop. Replaced auxillary fan twice, bearings in rear wheel, front control arm, and I have to bring it in now for a faulty rear brake caliper and a loud suspension rattle. The car just broke 30000 miles. The car gets a higher overall rating from me due to fit, finish, and fun factor but reliability just is not what I know from BMW. Unfortunatley my third will be my last.

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  Delightful driving with the wind blowing - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By basilmerlot - December 27 - 2:00 am

  Second BMW 330 ragtop owned. Delightful to drive but has two weaknesses. Underpowered even with the 225 HP six and engine sound is so flat you feel you are in a Yugo. Missing the muscular engine of previous 3 series. Has some body roll but is very tight for a convertible. Well built, few problems within first six months of ownership. Upgraded 18" wheels are beautiful and get compliments wherever I drive. Little wind noise at high speeds.

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  BMW 325ci - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By bmw21212 - December 26 - 10:00 am

  Simply the best BMW Ive ever had. Hands down beat the Mercedes,Volvo,Lexus alternatives when I was shopping.