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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  2002 BMW 330xi - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By BeemerFan - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Its an absolute "drivers car" for the enthusiast. Its fun to drive and repond to every drivers input. If an M3 is out of your range this is the car to buy. Its silky smooth V6 coupled with AWD is hard to beat on an entry luxury segment.

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  Dream car doesnt disappoint! - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Paul - May 8 - 3:26 pm

  Loved BMW since a little kid, finally got one. Even entry level 328i has plenty of power and sticks to the road like glue. Many people warned me that they dont handle well in snow/ice, but I found it to be better than any car Ive ever had (including front wheel drives). I couldnt make it skid when I tried. Glad I didnt go for the "x" option, unnecessary. The car is quality through and through. Wish I had an autobahn to really run it! May do European delivery next time.

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  My ultimate driving machine - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By spoondog - May 8 - 12:23 am

  This car is a blast to drive. Its fast and corners like a go kart. I havent had any problem other than a software update. If you love to drive and feels like Jeff Gordon occasionally, this is the car for you. Just point and shoot.

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  New car - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By jeramie alward - May 6 - 9:34 pm

  I have always enjoyed BMWs, I drove my first one back in 04 when my mom gave me a hand-me-down 325i 94. It was a great car for a just out of high school kid to have. I now drive an E46 99 and this is by far an excellent vehicle. The fact that these cars are very electronically sophisticated makes it almost imperative that they be taken to an authorized BMW tech for service every time the engine light comes on and for all tune ups. These cars are very fragile and not as durable as others.

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  Frugal fun in the sun - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By mgold - May 6 - 1:00 pm

  Ive owned this car since 1999 and have logged 115000 on the odometer (the car is about to hit 200k). Since I got the car, its been my trusty daily driver and fun machine having taken it on several road trips (including Yosemite) and have autocrossed with it. Its also pretty frugal getting about 27 mpg in mixed driving, although due to taller gearing than its hardtop siblings, it doesnt get mileage in the low 30s like they do (the cabrio has a 4.27 final drive ratio and the sedan and coupe have a 4.10). I highly recommend any of the 91 318i models to anyone looking to get into their first BMW. Im soon retiring my car for weekend fun and buying an E36 318i for my commute.

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  Too expensive to maintain after warranty - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Calzone - May 2 - 3:31 pm

  Nice sports sedan, lots of fun to drive in dry weather. Poor handling in snow, and very costly in repairs once the warranty expired. Several issues with AC unit, latest $1,200 for an evaporator. Real wheel spring broke after 60K miles. I am selling and getting a Honda.

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  Perfect for Michigan - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Joe - May 2 - 7:23 am

  My 328xi has the premium, sport, and cold weather packages, and it is also a manual. Its a great car. The run flat tires are hard for Michigan roads, but Ive had no problems otherwise. The accelerator pedal (electronic, I suspect) is a bit dead, but the rest of the controls are great. There is no on-the-road performance hit compared to the sedan or coupe. I considered and test drove them all.

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  36k AND STILL GOING 323ci - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By BMW BUYER - May 2 - 2:00 am

  I have to say that except for a few minor bugs, my 323ci has been problem free. The only issues I have had is a sunroof that was tempermental. It didnt want to open on occasion. My only other real complaint is this car produces a ton of break dust. You cant drive more than 50 miles and the wheels look terrible. The sport suspension comes on the coupe and it drives in rails.. VERY SPORTY. The Harmon Cardon stereo is a must have also. I have added the Dinan Performance Chip, and Dinan Cold Air induction, and AC Schitzer Exhaust to my car. It added about 30 HP and makes it sound like a M3. Very throaty sound.. IM IN LOVE!!

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  YOU MUST GET THIS CAR - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Sam Yerushalmi - May 2 - 2:00 am

  I got my 330 i at age 18 and i dont think i am ever gonig to get rid of it. For anyone who wants car that is fast look great and had a good name get this car. Driving has never been this fun. Getting stuck in the 405 trafic will never ever be a drag if its done in thsi car.

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  Best Entry-level Sedan Available - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By CROYBOY - May 2 - 2:00 am

  One word describes my 2003 BMW 325i: Sweet. Although Ive only been driving this car for about a month and am still in the break-in period, this car is amazing. Cant wait until I can put it to the test. Whatever you do, dont let your car get low on gas--it messes up the sensors and you have to take it in to get it reset. Leave it to the Germans to make such a solid, well built vehicle. Its too bad passengers cant get the same excitement from riding as the driver.