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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  325xi - Solid for the Money - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By mike - September 13 - 8:50 am

  Had this car for a year - looked at Audi 2.0, Acura TL and Lexus IS and for the money and build quality I chose the BMW. One thing to remember is the 4 years 50K bumper to bumper. The car looks good and is fun to drive.

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  Ultimate Driving Machine!!! - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By gary - September 12 - 10:33 pm

  Amazing vehicle! Consider the M Performance Pkg., extra horsepower, plus M3 handling pkg in a 4-door. BIG wheels and tires, firm sport suspension and HUGE brakes makes this a true drivers machine. Havent had this much fun in years!!! Also, the standard stereo is awful, so consider an upgrade (although the high-end stereo is standard in 2006). Yes, the new 2006 is a great car, but if you can find a "leftover" 2005 with the M Sport or M Performance package, dont miss it!!!

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  My Fun Secret - 1990 BMW 3-Series
  By Hwy1Cruiser - September 12 - 6:19 pm

  I purchased this car for $2500, with 180k miles on it so it needed some basic mechanical attention. Mostly tired parts, but nothing wrong with the engine at all. Being that I have access to parts at cost and I do all my own work, it may not be a fair assessment however I LOVE this car! For me the parts are cheap, the work is easy and as long as you take care of the wear items, it will run forever. OK maybe not forever but I recently turned 200,000 miles and Im proud of it. I look forward to hitting the 250k mark. I will drive this car anywhere without worry. This weekend I am taking it to LA from San Francisco and expect it to be a sweet ride down Hwy 1!

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  A solid car - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Fun in the 40s - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Test drove most the usual suspects: G35, ES300, X-type, 3.2TL-S, 325xi, 330xi, 525i, 530i, Passat AWD. We thought the X-type was the next best option, especially given the very aggresive pricing what we were offered. In the end though, it came down to getting the 330xi or a 530i. I loved the 530i in Sport trim, but my wife voted for the better poor-weather handling of the 330xi. So far, very happy.

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  A Bimmer for any season. - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By Sid - September 12 - 3:00 am

  Have owned this one for over 9 years - 325is 5spd with the legendary M techinc suspension. The only odd repair has been a radiator leak needing a new one. All else is simple maintenance of fluids and the odd brake pads. Have over 185,000Km on it and it still behaves new. Give us hill, curving roads and watch the generics fall aprart in your rear view mirror. Impeccable handing. Put on snow tires and run cirlces around any SUV. You will save enough on gas to put your kids through an Ivy league!!

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  Cant beat it - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By jgala - September 10 - 11:30 pm

  This car is WONDERFUL--so glad it comes with AWD--and boy did I use it last winter--complete safe and secure feeling and unbelievable performance. Service at dealer is fab--I cant say enough good things about this car.

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  330i Performance Package - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By qvu - September 8 - 10:00 am

  This BMW is my 3rd one, and it is an awesome car. I had traded my 2001 325ci for the 330i Performance Package, and it was a great decision. The cars handling is great in wet condition but totally amazing in dry weather. The 6 speed manual is really easy to operate. The car is just overall fun to drive. I test drove the Infiniti G35, and for the price, the G35 wins. However, the G35 doesnt drive or perform as well as the 330i ZHP. I think that the 330i wins the emotional factor between the two cars. Besides, the 330i looks great next to my 1999 E36 M3.

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  What 3 series is all about - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By pazman - September 7 - 6:49 pm

  Ive owned 2 E30 body style 3 series (early 90s), as well as a Z3. This 2004 325i gets me back to my roots and back to what i expect from a BMW - riding on rails, good acceleration, and feeling like I am in a solid car. Unfortunately, the car has become the symbol of the yuppie. If you are a true car afficionado - a true lover of what BMWs mean (and call them properly a bimmer and not a beemer - which is reserved for their bikes), than you wont be disappointed. I looked at Mercedes, and they are great cars, but if you are focused on performance, take a ride in this one and see how well it picks-up and goes and corners.

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  Fun sporty car - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Elizabeth Morrow - September 7 - 1:32 pm

  This car is a lot of fun to drive. It has great power and control, nice features as well. It is somewhat expensive to maintain, but thats true for most European cars.

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  Fun and Reliable - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Michelle - September 7 - 11:06 am

  My 330xi is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned. Not only is it extremely safe, but its performance and handling is better than any other car I have driven. Before purchasing, I test drove several others in this class, none of which compared to BMW.