2004 BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.66/5 Average
459 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A six-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission is now optional on select 3 Series models, while a five-speed Steptronic automatic is now offered with the 330i Performance Package. Rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights and hands-free wireless cell phone capability are now standard features on the sedan and wagon. There are new alloy wheel designs for the 325i, 325xi and 330xi Sport Package. All 330i sedans get a revised grille -- a new black grille instead of silver, with a lower grille combination of body color and black. All 3 Series coupes and convertibles receive a revised front fascia, plus new front and rear bumper contours, Adaptive headlamps and taillights and new designs for both the standard and optional wheels. Interior changes are limited to a revised climate control panel. Finally, Sirius Satellite Radio is now available as an accessory on all 3 Series models.

Pros:
  • Available all-wheel drive for sedan and wagon.
  • Luxurious, powerful, exceptional road manners
Cons:
  • Pricey for its market segment, limited rear-seat space and cargo capacity.

User Reviews:

Showing 171 through 180 of 459.00
  • Saints review - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Had corrosion on underside of trunk lid after only 20K miles. Had a brake issue also. Both issues resolved by Dealer under warranty. Dealer was very helpful, providing loaner, washing the car during service, and actually rubbed out a rubber mark on the front fender. Car drives like a champ, has long leg room in front seats and has a 400 mile range. Fun to drive.

  • 04 330 Sport 6speed - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    BMW Certified with 26k miles. Driving to work has never been so fun (even with traffic and a manual transmission)! The sport suspension is a bit stiff but not M3 stiff. Mileage is good (22 in city driving and 31.5 on highway the 6th gear really does well for road trips). Corners like a go-cart you point it, it goes there. Stereo system needs to be totally revamped limited improvement by adjusting controls. Very noticeable tire noise with OEM Continentals (I look forward to changing them). Very clean, classy interior layout. Sport suspension, low profile tires and front facing give a very athletic look. Short throw shifter is a hoot. Small car, so spend some time in it prior to buying.

  • Classic rag top - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Great looking with a ride like a true sports car. With the top down you feel like what heaven must be like. Sport package a must if you want to grab the road like no sedan you have ever driven before, except perhaps an M3. 18 inch wheels with low profile tires dont hurt either. Paint job is perfection. Alpine Stereo option awesome. Wish it had a true console storage area...my only complaint. Love, love, love this car!

  • LOVE IT - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought this car in March (a 2004) and I am excited to get in it everyday. Ignore the mileage I wrote down I dont know what it is yet as its new.It drives like a performance car. VERY fast and hugs the road like no other. This car is loaded with new features that make it even more enjoyable. ITs worth every dime...

  • My first Beemer, the dream come true ! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I thought I would never get into a luxury car, but the BMW 325, although pricey, it well worth the presitge, fun to drive and comfort. The car is amazing...I have bought Hondas up until this car and I am absolutely sure I will stick with BMW for a long time based on my impression of the car so far.

  • Excellent All Round Fun Car - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Best all round performance and fun for the money. Would like more HP, but absolutely fun everytime you are behind the wheel. Pluses - handling, style, fun factor. Minuses - dont like the stereo, heater display washes out in sun, some go out in cold. Seats wearing prematurely driver side. Pricey extras like CD changer which is in trunk, alarm system an option. Convertible top not latched, warning light too low in vehicle, too small.

  • Best in its class--again. - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    325xi with steptronic purchased as certified pre-owned with 18500 miles. Car is like new - agile handling, superb steering, fair to good acceleration (best from 25 mph to 75 mph), and solid feel. Interior leather, carpet, etc., all of high quality with no signs of wear. Seats are firm and comfortable. Cold weather package is a great option but fold-down seats or at least a pass-through should be standard feature on this car as trunk space is limited. Jet black paint is nice but optional metallic paint looks better on this model as 325s lack the chrome trim of the 330s models. Driving experience is great whether on highway or twisty back roads. H-K sound upgrade is good but not outstanding.

  • Steptronic recall is a must - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    New 325Ci, steptronic loaded. Less than 2,000 miles car hesitates on acceleration. The car revs wildly then slowly lurches forward. Dealer and BMW of NA played DUMB. I produced documentation found on message boards. A safety bulletin SIB 2407 03. BMW tells dealers to "replace the transmission on a customer complaint basis only"? Not how makers of "The Ultimate Driving Machine" should treat customers. NHTSA defect investigation underway as of Feb 04. I have lost all confidence in my dealer and BMW for not contacting me.

  • a driving machine - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    awesome handling, have never driven a car like this before and it gets better each day. great pickup and comfort, along with all the great safety features

  • Fun to drive - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Nice little car, great mileage, handling fabulous. Finish good, seats ok, a bit firm for long drives. Car is too low to ground, difficult to get in and out. A bit too much engine noise, but it is a BMW.

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