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-Biggest Mistake on Wheels - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By unhappy beamer owner - March 30 - 2:00 am

  This is the worst nightmare I have experienced with a vehicle. I have owned this vehicle for thirteen months and it has been in the shop nine times, with major mechanical problems including but not limited to, a new engine at 40000 miles and a new transmission at 60000. The only good thing I have to say about this vehicle, it is fun to drive when it will drive. Nice to look at but, Just say NO!

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  Too Expensive - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Dave - March 11 - 4:36 pm

  After shopping BMW, Acura, Lexus and Honda, decided on the BMW. It was my wifes choice of cars. Bad choice. My neighbor bought the Acura TL and it runs circles around the BMW in performance, luxury and price. The BMW is slow, very loud and rides horribly. I know it is a road car but the ride on the run flat tires is absolutely terrible. Speaking of the run flats, these tires were a huge mistake on the part of BMW. Mine have 11500 and will need replacement in another few hundred miles. The car also wont hold an alignment. The paint quality is also very poor. Next time I will buy the Acura with better engineering, performance, price and quality.

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  Expensive to Maintain - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Benson - March 10 - 12:51 am

  BMW performance is great and the car looks good, however, if you want to own a used BMW without warranty you will get very disappointed. I have owned different types of used cars some even older but none compares to a BMW. The maintenance of BMW is a disappointment. There is alway a service engine light on the dashboard that always requires expensive attention.

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  Not Quite The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By ecb - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I love driving this car. However, I have had to take the car into the dealer for service 3 times in the 8 months Ive owned it. The main problem is with with Transmission. Took the car into the dealer to fix this 2 months ago and was told that the parts needed to be ordered and we would be called when they were in...were still waiting for a call. Ive never owned a car as unreliable as this BMW. If you plan to buy a BMW around the Philadelphia, PA area avoid Devon Hill BMW they are lacking in any customer service ability.

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  The Best Car Ever - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Tim Thompson - February 23 - 10:00 am

  I love this car

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  absolute maintenance horror story - 1993 BMW 3-Series
  By msb - November 26 - 2:00 am

  This car has been an unmitigated disaster from the time we got it with only 20,000 miles. Although it drives very well, and has a comfortable and solid feel for a smaller car, we have sunk thousands into it for repairs large and larger. The worst was a blown head gasket at 45,000 miles! Unbelievable. Numerous motors and switches have gone out, from the window controllers to wheel bearings...stuff youd never expect from a car with so few miles, and a BMW to boot.

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  Disappointment - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By ertes - November 7 - 10:00 am

  In 8 months I had 3 recalls. Recently transmission started having problmes. HK stereo system is very bad. One of the speakers just started to be very distored. Overall: my first and LAST BMW.

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  Pretty Sad!!!! Better off Buying a Ford! - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By 2L8-IWON - October 3 - 2:00 am

  I have to say I am thourghly dissapointed!! I have had two BMs and will never get another BMW Canada and their Dealers are most unhelpfull and inconsiderate, I have had to replace so far over $3,000 and BMW says I do not care sir even if you are only 3,500 miles out of your warranty, and then they say sorry you are not even the original owner so we will do nothing for you!!

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  Get this one if you are looking for a safe car. - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By agoudy - September 30 - 10:12 pm

  This was my first car, purchased it used, and I had it for exactly one month. The car itself overpowered my abilities as a new driver, and I would suggest that only experienced drivers use this car! The brakes were spongy, despite being new performance brakes. I had to really slam on them in order to get the car to stop. The car has a nice, comfortable interior and the controls are a little counter intuitive at first (being a German car) but you will adjust quickly. Also, the leather interior will split at the seams if not taken care of. Overall a nice car for someone who appreciates good handling and a balanced, powerful car. ***I was in a 40 mph head on collision in this car. I ran it directly into a tree. I totaled the car, but came out of the accident unscathed. I had some minor burns on my arms from the air bag, and a mild concussion, but I was otherwise kept safe. The air bags deployed properly, and the car crumpled as it should have. The passenger cab of the vehicle was kept in tact and I had no issues getting out of the car. If safety is a priority for you, I can tell you from first hand experience that this car will keep you safe.***

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  Not Happy! - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By Tarek - September 6 - 2:00 am

  After my 3Yr warranty expired, the reliablity problems are gaining momentum. Got a $CDN 5000 repair bill to replace/fix belts, valves, shock mounts, brakes, trailing arm bushing and the list goes on. Aufwiedersehen BMW, I am buying the 04 Acura TL3.2