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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  Unsatisfied - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By JVT - September 23 - 12:29 pm

  Bought this car for reliability, but it is anything but reliable. There are lots of badly engineered parts that go bad and should be recalled but are not and you are charged for their replacement. Everything seems to cost over $500 to repair. A regular oil change and inspection costs $250. The brakes and tires dont last long, the water pump, alternator and other parts die suddenly before 100K. Now at 120K the car has broken down and left me stranded on the side of the road three times this year. The car does not deserve its reputation.

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  328XI Coupe - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Jeff - September 21 - 8:33 pm

  I was torn between the 335 and the 328 because of the diffrence in power, When I test drove them both I was shocked how fast the 335 was but was also surprised how much power the 328 had. I decided with todays gas prices and my left foot the 328 was right for me. This is a great all around car if your in the market for a cold weather coupe.

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  Enjoy the 2005 BMW - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Karl H - September 21 - 7:55 pm

  I have owned the car for two months and loved it. The handling is incredible and I love the design of the interior. Mileage has been decent and trunk space is decent, although if you are going to have five individuals in the car, I would recommend looking at the Lexus. But, with four or less passengers, this is the perfect entry level luxery car in my opinion. Finally, this is the first time that I have ever driven a rear wheel drive car and that took a little to get used to at first, especially when stopping quickly. But, the RWD is not a big issue in my opinion.

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  Drive it - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By driveithard - September 21 - 5:48 am

  Good Car, Smooth, reliable, fun. What else is more fun to drive 4 the price? Maintain it, and drive the crap out of it and it still comes back for more....buy it, youll like it.

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  Great BMW 325I - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By raysnuffer - September 20 - 2:00 am

  The car is as solid as a bank vault, no squeaks or rattles. It is smooth but it has an edge to the ride. The steering is precise and quick. Acceleration is not as good as the 330I I drove, but that is why the 330I costs a little more. Gas mileage would qualify this car for compact status. It is always 20 mpg or more for city driving. Over all I am extremely happy with the car.

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  Fun-to-drive - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By HeyMario - September 20 - 12:36 am

  This thing is all about driving fun. If youre looking for a car that will please the passengers, look elsewhere, but for the driver, you dont need to look any further. The power from the 2.5L engine is surprisingly good considering its modest power ratings. The handling, of course, is second to none. We own a 1999 BMW 540i with the Sports package, but this 3-series is alot more fun to play with, especially on winding roads.

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  I love my first Bimmer - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By jjdow - September 18 - 10:53 pm

  Ive had this car for 4 months and 6K miles, and it seems to drive better each day. The RFTs are no issue, and I have not taken it back to the shop for any reason. the handling with the steering and SP is awesome. It is a little bumpy on bad, patched up roads, but 90% of the time Im on decent roads and its a blast to drive, especially in manual.

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  The Finest Automobile Ive Ever Owned - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By rs6654 - September 18 - 10:16 pm

  Ive driven this car coast to coast on all kinds of roads, in all kinds of terrain and all kinds of weather. Ive been driving over 30 years and this car seems perfect in every way.

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  Way too much fun! - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By MVF - September 18 - 5:12 pm

  I had always read about BMW- the "Ultimate driving machine" and thought what a bunch of $@&*- its a yuppy-mobile. A couple of quick test drives showed me just how wrong I was. I have the performance package and to say I am impressed with this car just wouldnt get the idea across. The suspension is an amazing blend of firm control and quality ride, the engine is great at nearly any rpm- so smooth I forget to shift & very gutsy. This is the most satisfying, fun car to drive (that is still practical) I could find. Owning it has been a pleasure- no problems of any kind, and it puts a smile on my face every day on my way to work- if you see a hole in traffic, its yours!

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  2007 BMW 335xi - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By tact5225 - September 14 - 5:10 am

  You buy, you pay, and you pay some more. But you have a blast while your doing it. Also make the right choice and get the manual.