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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  Overpriced - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By lushan - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Overpriced. Hyped car! Acura much better for the price.

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  BMTroubleU - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By fjm1 - July 31 - 2:00 am

  30+ unscheduled trips for dealer service says it all.

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  Solid but quite Sluggish overall - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By dieter maximillian - July 29 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this vehicle as second owner (bought 2 years used with 20,000km). Have only two complaints. Firstly when engine is hot (riding around for several hours in summer heat) car shakes in first gear... starts smoothly directly from 2nd at a red light with a little longer cluth action. Electrical should improve - lights out often. Funny I still like it.

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  DONT CRY--DONT TELL - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By cruslo - May 1 - 2:00 am

  I BOUGHT THE 2004 325CI WITH 16 MILES ON IT 3 WEEKS AGO. 2WEEKS AFTER PURCHASE THE TRANSMISSION BEGINS MALFUNCTIONING BETWEEN REVERSE AND DRIVE.I AM TOLD BY THE SALESMAN THAT THE CAR IS A CAR THAT NEEDS TO WARMED BEFORE DRIVING. I DECIDE TO TAKE IT IN FOR SERVICE AND I COME TO FIND THAT THERE IS A SILENT RECALL ON THE TRANSMISSION. I AM GIVEN DOCUMENTS STATING , FROM BMW, THAT IF A CUSTOMER COMPLAINS ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION FAILING BETWEEN PARK AND DRIVE HE OR SHE IS A CANDIDATE FOR A UPGRADE REPLACEMENT. OTHERWISE IF THE CUSTOMER DOES NOT COMPLAIN DO NOT SAY A THING

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  Be ware of your local BMW shop - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By saltyswede - March 29 - 2:00 am

  Took my car to S.F. BMW for a 60k check up. I was told that the cost would be 650. They then took of new wiperblades and replaced them etc. alot of hidden costs. They told me that the radiator was leaking and said that it with the "plastic waterpump and thermostate housing" at a cost of 3800. I took the car to a independent shop who informed me that the production date of my car indicated that it would not have the plastic waterpump. If you need parts for your BMW try the Partsbin.com they sell OEM and after market parts. S.F. BMW OEM Radiator 385 The Partsbin OME with shiping 169 The radiators are both made by baher and are identical.

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  car of our dreams? - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By uttalinger - March 26 - 2:00 am

  We bought a 2000 BMW 5 months ago. The road handling of the car is like no other, it is superior in hugging the road and leaves the driver a powerful feeling of being in control. The car has also been in the shop 4 times. The engine is very underpowered and stalls on hills. The electric mirrors broke, moon roof broke, bushings went, control arms had to be replaced, water leaks in door, shifter knob fell off and numerous other problems. The dealer says this is inherent in these cars and can do nothing for us. The car, in our opinion, is unsafe and a "lemon".

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  330 CI - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Mark1897 - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Enjoyed the car but hit a big pothole at 10,000 miles and car was never the same. Shaky front end and rattles emerged. Backseat is totally useless and very difficult to get into or out of. Lacked room for storage of items such as CDs, sunglasses, etc. Bascially too expensive for what you get. Didnt feel I got value for my money and wouldnt buy another BMW.

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  German build quality - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By Bozz - December 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car for my brother in January from my manager. eversince we own this car, it has so many small accessories problem such as A/C holes leaks, gasket leaks, and now the heater holes is leaking. Althought, I really like the performance of the car but i just feel so annoy on fixing this small problems.

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  Hole in the wallet - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By BisForBummer - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Worst designed BMW ever. From plastic radiator to plastic fins on the water pump blade to a computer that does not adequately drain when the car is taken to a car wash such that is floods and shorts out.

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  Reliability and performance over-rated - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By Brian Johnson - August 25 - 2:00 am

  I overestimated the BMW brand when I bought my 97 328i. The exterior design is distinctly BMW and it is a great "image" car for young professionals. The biggest challenge is reliability... hundreds of sensors constantly break and any visit to the shop will run at least $300. If you are going to buy one anyway - pass on the Inspection I and II checkups - which are serious waste of money. Overall, performance was less than stellar. I actually had more fun with my 97 Acura Integra, which really surprised me.