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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  Im Hooked! - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Mike Jayjock - August 17 - 2:04 pm

  Ever since I was 10 years old - I have found a least one aspect about any high priced purhased item that was disappointing. I am almost 60 and this BMW has not disappointed me in the least. It is so much fun to drive it is almost hard to describe. You can feel the obessive drive for quality embued into this vehicle by the German engineers.

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  Smooooooth - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By bmr girl - August 17 - 2:17 am

  Fun and easy. This is the most fun Ive ever had outside. Ill have to move south to get more months of enjoyment. Just enough power.

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  Faaaast and safe, corners at 100mp/h - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Rukman - August 16 - 3:00 am

  Amazing handling, I drove this car today at 135mph and still felt as if I could push it more! Magnificent handling, the feeling is amazing, you can practically feel the 4 feels grabbing the blacktop. Sports mode shifter is great, the automatic clutch is a bit slow but not distracting once used to it. Brakes are amazing too! Had to bring the car from 90 to 0 in a short distance but handled beutifully (still alive thanks to the brakes) :) Will never buy anything other than BMW after this :)

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  Smile Machine! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By cablover - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I am very impressed with the sound insulation in the car. A previous 911 cab owner and swearing I would never buy another convertible because of noise, this car converted me back. A daily driver (that now sits next to a 911 coupe) has similar handling and performance characteristics, simply without the hp. I offers huge fun factor - especially with the top down, but the wind deflector is a must for comfortable ride and therefore not that rear passenger friendly.

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  This Is The One! - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By JRick - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a Porsche on this 2004 model BMW 330cic and couldnt be happier with the car. Truly, this car is more fun to drive than my Porsche. Build quality is A+. I bought auto transmission and am pleased with its performance. This is the One!

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  solid and fun to drive - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By zubby - August 14 - 10:00 am

  just got 2003 330xi for $1000 under invoice from a small bmw dealer in rural NJ. test drove car, and fell in love immediately. had an extremely good experience with dealer. they treated me very fair, honestly, and well. Owned acura integra for 6 years, and loved it but found it too small, wanted to replace it with car as fun to drive and a quieter more powerful, and more comfortable ride. bmw 3 series fit perfectly.

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  Definitely Worth It! - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Dreamstar - August 12 - 3:46 pm

  If youve got the bucks to spend, this one is worth it! The BMW 2005 330Cic Convertible is just about the most fun Ive had driving in a long time! Its packed with luxury Items and if you get the Sport Package like I did, you can take advantage of that extra "oomph" in pickup youll love once you break that baby in!

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  99 BMW - Great Car In Indy - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By SEIndyBMW - August 11 - 5:30 pm

  I purchased my used 99 BMW 323i (32,000 miles)in Indianapolis, Indiana in the Spring of 2005. Very sharp looking car - titanium gray / black leather interior. Excellent handling and performance. This entry-level sports car hugs the road and drives fantastic. No major issues ...

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  2014 CPO Elite 328ix Sportwagon - 2014 BMW 3-Series
  By sco stu - August 11 - 1:33 am

  Engine and transmission are smooth as silk. The turbo-4cyl with 8AT is outstanding. 0 issues with vehicle and dealer has been outstanding for scheduled maintainence. I-Drive is waaaaay better than my wifes Audi MMI. Wagons new are $$$, look for a used CPO. Ridiculous what an optioned new wagon costs. Only complaint is, and this is an issues with pre-LCI F30s, is electric steering. Ugh, our old E90 was better in steering/road feel vs the newer F30s. Also if you can find one, get the Adaptive M suspension. The Xdrive wagon has BMWs base suspension and sits the highest. The Msport suspension or old "704" static suspension are unavailable on the wagons. And pay for the lighting package! The halogen lights are terrible. Unbelievable that BMW stills puts halogen lights in their vehicles. Plus with halogens you do NOT get the classic signature of all BMWs.....iconic Round Angel eyes. I have rear and front facing child seats in 2nd row. Make sure you put the front facing seat behind the drivers side! Or it gets tight. I love my wagon, fast and fun to drive.....and still average 24-25 mpg in town.

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  BMW 3-Series is a MONEY PIT!! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Roy M. - August 10 - 9:52 pm

  While the performance of this vehicle is phenomenal, BMWs commitment to customer service, and establishing brand loyalty is 0. Vehicle reliability is terrible as it has left my wife stranded on several occassions. This year alone Ive spent $3,000 in repairs. First the a/c, then 3 of the 4 power window motors went out at the same time, not to mention the times the vehicle has left us stranded. When I contacted the North America Corporate Offices I was simply advised to buy another BMW...no customer goodwill credit for repairs, no complimentary service, No..No..No. In conclusion, not the brand of QUALITY, customer service, and/or commitment they portray to be.