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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  Lovin It - 1993 BMW 3-Series
  By Amanda - April 9 - 8:26 pm

  I have recently bought a 318is and I love it! The previous owner had taken very good care of it and it is now in almost perfect condition. I love that I can afford such an accommodating car and that Im driving a BMW at 18 years old. I am a car lover and I will probably never sell this car because of how happy I am with it.

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  Ultimate fun in the sun classic - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By tshedd - April 9 - 4:35 pm

  This is a great little convertible. My first. The handling and tightness of an 11 yr old car are excellent. Rear wheel drive can be a bit tricky in winter. When I bring it to work on warm days all the coworkers want to go out to lunch in my car! I love the fact that it can seat 4 comfortably for short distances. A true classic in every way, and many have tried to copy the lines. Gets decent gas mileage , I average 22 mpg.

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  Love at first site! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By branco327 - April 8 - 11:04 pm

  Gorgeous car with the M sports package that comes with the nicest 18 inch wheels out there. Gorgeous interior too and the handling/performance is fantastic. Nicest looking BMW ever made and indeed based on peoples reaction to this car it is a head turner. Im not quite comfortable yet with the attention and stares this vehicle gets.

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  Awesome - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Lee Ayres - April 8 - 10:00 am

  We have driven coast to coast twice and love this car. It helps that I lost weight some weight. It is easier for me to get in and out of now at 210 compared to 250 pounds. Handling is superb.

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  330i Forget about it - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By hannah max - April 8 - 10:00 am

  Electronic system a total dog. I bought my car 3 months ago and it has been "in the shop" almost all summer. If you let the car sit for two days without driving it, the battery is shot. The same thing happened with the 330 loaner; it would not start after sitting idle for 2 days. I traded in a 1992 Acura that went into the shop once a year; I wish I had it back. I am receiving a refund and understand there is going to be a recall on this model. Be certain to ask about the electronic systems. Consumer Reports has now dropped this model from their recommended lists.

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  Too many issues - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By LA - April 7 - 11:36 pm

  Transmission needed to be replaced at 17,000 miles (apparently an issue BMW is trying to hide on the 2003), mildew smell from AC (BMW actually told me its cars arent made for humid conditions since its not humid in Germany), and had to be towed in to dealership 3 times in first year for a variety of what BMW called "little" issues.

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  Love the car, hate the problems - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By jlsocks - April 6 - 5:48 pm

  Ive wanted a BMW coupe for years and was excited to finally get one. I truly love the styling of the car and the way it drives. In less than 2 years of ownership, Ive had to bring in the car in for unscheduled maintenance/repairs 6 times. These issues included, replacing the door locking mechanism so I could get out of the car (problem has resurfaced), new transmission, dead battery, emissions issues, coolant system leak, and A/C recall. If the problems with the car had been relatively minor as can be expected in some German cars, I could understand, but I dont think Ill ever purchase another BMW again.

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  This is the worse car I have ever owned - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By mimi - April 5 - 7:15 pm

  Bought this coming off of lease and have spend major $$$ from day one. Everything from steering to air conditioning problems. I have needed new brake pads almost annually and there is a strange loud noise while driving. Most of my problems started on day one but got continually worse as 100K miles.

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  Drive It and Weep - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By sanva - April 5 - 7:00 am

  Im fortunate to be one of the first in the DC Metro area to buy the new 328i. Though I have not yet had a chance to take it out and really enjoy it, initial reaction to everything, including performance, design, and comfort, is positive. Nothing drives like a BMW. And in this case, nothing looks like the 328i. The head-turning quotient is off the charts.

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  Stop buying Hondas - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Troy - April 3 - 1:30 pm

  I purchased this vehicle as a replacement to my 2005 Honda Accord Coupe. After 15yrs and four Hondas, this is a major upgrade. Far more creature comforts and better handling inspite of the lower horsepower rating. This car loves to be driven fast and grips the road like a champ. Wish I had looked at bimmers sooner.