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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  BMW ROCKS WITH AWD - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By TC - November 2 - 10:36 am

  Love it, tested the 5 series and liked it but the cost was not worth the difference in auto. 325 xi handles great in the snow of Wisconsin. Get the power seats!

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  My first bimmer!! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By fastcat - November 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is what dreams are made of! I considered many cars, basically all makes from VW Jetta on up. In the end, BMW got the upper hand (and rightfully so) by delivering the kind of performance I was looking for. Some people might say its overpriced, but I say the its all well worth the bucks. There truly is no comparison to "the ultimate driving machine!" Experience it for yourself!!!

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  330i ZHP - a sport sedan for the ages - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By JamesSpot - October 29 - 10:00 am

  This BMW is for someone who wants to drive a sports car on a daily basis but requires the added luxury, convenience, and practicality an upscale sedan provides. The powerful, smooth-revving inline six, tight suspension and performance tire grip, powerful brakes, and feel of the road through the gearshift lever and steering wheel are the zenith of what BMW offers. With the ZHP package, you benefit from an increased sporting feel and minor tweaks to the engine and running gear, without paying the premium in reduced gas mileage, insurance cost, or ride comfort of a single purpose sports car. To me, it is a "best of both worlds" daily ride.

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  Fun ride - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By aGermanInUS - October 29 - 10:00 am

  I got the sports package and metallic paint, but no other gimmicks. I take 25mph-turns at 40-45 mph (on dry road, of course), with room to spare. The engine has enough spunk for fun driving, and it has near-maximum torque at almost the entire range. The sport seats, once adjusted, are extremely comfy. If traffic allows you to use cruise control to "take a load of your feet", 3-4 hours nonstop driving does not lead to much fatigue. This is not a luxury vehicle! The suspension is sportily-stiff, the performance tires give you road noise, and you feel the road. The engine is not as "in your face" as in the Z4, but you can enjoy its comforting growl in the cockpit.

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  Awesome car, definitely fun to drive - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By caff - October 27 - 2:50 pm

  This is a very awesome car, since I purchased this vehicle, I definitely get a lot of looks from people who havent recognized the new body style of the coupe and from a lot of car enthusiasts. Previously I drove a 4 cylinder which had plenty of get up, but the increase in horsepower from the inline six as well as the excellent handling gives me more than enough to enjoy my drive.

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  This car has been great - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By bobisi - October 27 - 7:02 am

  I bought this car in 2011 with 80k miles on it. It has 115k on it now in 2017. Ive had very few problems, nothing major; water pump and alternator. The sun roof had to be replaced and is still not perfect but it doesnt leak! The car drives great; power, handling, comfort and reliability are all impressive. I am totally sold on BMWs now, this was my first and at this point there is no going back to anything less.

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  We Have A Winner - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Jim H - October 26 - 11:06 pm

  Took delivery this afternoon on a Tasman green/saddle brn 09 335i xDrive coupe. Said goodbye to my 06 330xi sedan, gave her a hug, and never looked back. My 330 was fast. But this coupe is stupid fast. Always thought my 330 was smart and had "a nice personality." But the 335 coupe is hot! Seriously considered the A5 Audi and VW CC. Theyre nice, very nice, but they are runner-ups. BMW needs to seriously ditch the run-flats. The cup holders are poor too (but you shouldnt drink and drive anyway, not in this car at least).

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  335i Impressive Debut - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Batty Langer - October 26 - 9:06 am

  Having driven 2 new M5s in the last 6 years and a 645i, it is difficult to find the words to describe how powerful and thrilling it is to drive the new 335i Sedan. The engine is a masterpiece running sub-5 0-60 and getting nearly 30 mpg on the freeway! Steering is precise, braking exceptional and suspension tight with a great exhaust note. In addition, the interior is comfortable, seats the best in any 3 series ever and the fit and finish are excellent. Exterior styling could be further distinguished (the only obvious difference bet the 335 and other models are the dual exhausts). The coolest feature may be the real time traffic right on the nav screen either on the map route or in text form

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  Better than Infiniti G35 - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By ME747 - October 23 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my 03 G35 because it rode to stiff and had to much road noise. I could not be happier with my decision. This is a true drivers car, confortable and decent power (my G35 was much faster)with smooth delivery and quieter than the G35. I purchased a BLACK ext. with tan leather. The only 2 problems I had were the brake pedal and steering vibrated when I applied the brakes and at 200 miles the engine misfired (was running on 5 cyl). I had to pull over to then side of the road called BMW, they told me to turn the engine off then re-start it,the problem went away. I took it in for service the following week and they changed the no#3 coil and the rotors.

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  Its worth the money honey - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By DoctorJ - October 17 - 10:20 pm

  Although the Saab and Audi are great cars too, the BMW is far better in terms of handling, acceleration, styling, and engine sound.