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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  Bang for the Buck - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By NFS13 - November 12 - 5:20 am

  Having owned an M3 and a 330 coupe I can say that this car is as close to the perfect combination of both as you can get. A comfy every day driver like the 330, with an engine that rivals the outgoing M3.

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  2014 BMW 328i - 2014 BMW 3-Series
  By Tim - November 9 - 5:42 am

  Wow what a car!!!! For the first time in my life I was in the market for a car for myself after having hauled around kids for 20 plus years in mini-vans. I had narrowed it down to 3 cars: Audi A4, Mercedes C250 ad the BMW 3 series. My son and I test drove the A4 and C250, and liked the performance of the A4, but werent crazy about the interior. The Mercedes in my opinion failed on all levels, too cramped, quality of materials were poor, performance, and overall ride quality. After that my son was suggesting a Dodge Charger or Chrysler 300, I just wasnt in the market for something that big, and I had test driven a 320 a couple of months back, I liked the 320, but overall performance was below my expectations, so we took the drive to go test drive a CPO BMW 328i. Within 30 seconds of driving the 328, we knew this was no 320, and this was the car I had been looking for. It is a rocket!!! The ride, handling and performance exceeded my expectations. What I love about it the most is the 3 driving styles you can select from: Eco, for maxing out your fuel economy, Comfort, good fuel economy plus some performance, or sport, max speed and fun, itll get to 80 in no time, hard to believe this is a 4 cylinder, the turbo is great, its a single turbo, but tuned for low and high speeds, so you can take off quick, or if your on the highway have plenty of get up to pass. I also really like the fuel economy you can get out of the car, Im getting 40 MPG at 70mph, granted flat surface in FL, but that is some serious MPG. Oh yeah, the car looks great too. Roomy as well, Im 61" and fit comfortably. So if you in the market for a smaller German sedan I highly recommend the 328. Not sure about the reliability as Ive only had it for a few weeks, but under warranty until 2020. CPO is the way to go.

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  Best car I have ever owned - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Martin330i - November 6 - 8:01 pm

  I purchased this vehicle new in 2002, with the sport package and premium interior. Ive not had a single mechanical problem with it. Just had its 60k mile checkup. They found some minor wear-and-tear issues, nearly all of which were amazingly covered by the extended warranty I purchased. This car has been an absolute joy to own and drive. The performance and handling still put a smile on my face. I never thought I would enjoy an automatic transmission (have always driven stick), but the steptronic works so well, I dont miss the stick at all! I do agree about the tires though - I go through them frequently, especially the rears. Go figure! :-)

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  Buyer beware - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By john samson - November 3 - 8:38 am

  I would recommend this car to no one, I bought mine last year with 40,000 miles. It was like it was brand new, then I heard a banging noise under the car. The frame of the car had come apart itÂ’s a little known design flaw. I ended up paying $4700 to get it fixed. The car has always run great, handles great, but you would expect more from BMW then for it to fall a apart at 50000 miles. So buyer beware.

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  325i Great Car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Snap - November 2 - 9:03 pm

  I purchased this car as a service model, with about 5K miles on it. Although Id love to have an M3, the 325i is a good performing car for the money. It has good pick-up and handles great. Its fun to drive and looks good while doing it. I havent had any problems with the car.

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  BMW QUALITY...WHAT QUALITY - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By DOC - November 1 - 10:00 am

  Got flat, tried to fix with BMW Jack that came with car. Jack broke. BMW tow truck took 1hr 45min when I was told only 1hr. Alarm and electronics always malfunctioning. Service department really unfriendly, always treat you like an idiot and nothing is their fault. If they tell you when your car will be ready, that really means that itll be ready 4-24hrs from that time. and youll find that no work was done on car, cause they can never find the problem and always say everything is fine.

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  My Best Car Ever - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By kworben - October 30 - 7:10 pm

  Bought this car used in 1997 with <20K miles. I have maintained it myself and with the help of the Bentley manual found it easy to work on. With 145K it still has the original clutch. With snow tires and LSD it handles well in the snow. Other than ball joints, have done nothing but routine maintenance. Handles great (I added Bilsteins) and gets 30 mpg on my 80 mi commute. If you find a well maintained low mileage example, buy it!

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  Excellent Car, Questionable Value - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By quikkash - October 28 - 11:23 pm

  This is by far the best car Ive ever owned. The engine is smooth and feels more powerful than its advetised 215 hp. Manual transmission is slick and precise. Base model is well equipped, which is fortunate because options make the price unreasonable very fast. Keep the pedal off the firewall and fuel economy is average. Zing it to the redline between every stoplight (much fun!) and economy will suffer greatly. Ride is firm and controlled with base suspension, but not harsh. Have had no mechanical problems in the 3000 miles Ive owned it. Base stereo is passable, but disappointing in a car of this stature. A great car, but probably not the best value available for your money.

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  Great and funny coupe - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By Osvaldo Daniel Messi - October 28 - 10:31 pm

  I have a BMW 325, 1994, black. It is fast, easy to drive. Fine leather upholstery. Classic coupe design does not look old nowadays. I strongly recommend you to find one and buy it. My car only has 50000 miles (real mileage). Probably I will pass it to my son!!.

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  What a Rocket! - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Doug - October 28 - 9:20 pm

  One word: wow! This is my first Bimmer. Ive owned American muscle cars and turbo-charged imports, but nothing combines drive and performance like this 335i. It has the raw power of my old V8 camero, and sticks to the road like my 300Z - the best of both worlds. Almost all the cars on the lots were auto, and all had the premium package. We ordered ours from the factory in Germany in order to get a 6 speed manual gearbox with all the sport options and very little of the "premium" options (no i-drive, thank goodness). It arrive in 5 weeks. It feels like we got a production M3 right of the box! We have had it for almost 7 months now and its still a thrill.