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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  Great car - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By block1974 - February 7 - 4:46 pm

  Purchased in Jan. and had it built in Germany. That is cool, custom built. The more I drive it, more I like it. I have automatic, and seems it is little sluggish off the line, but not a big deal. the 328xi may not be as powerful as 335 as I have read, but it is plenty. The coupe has plenty of trunk room for coupe. Single guys, you will love it. I am in Mass. and the 328xi is great in snow, and ice. No regrets. Great style, handling. Worth the wait. Keep eye on speed, easy to fly with ease, and quietness.

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  Excellent BMW - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Li Morr - February 6 - 1:26 pm

  As fun to drive as it looks. Everyone should try one sometime in their life.

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  Fun car but has durability issues - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By Vroom2 - February 3 - 6:55 pm

  This is a fun car to drive just about anywhere. Great on-road grip, handling, breaking and steering. Could use a few more horses but around town its plenty fast enough. The main drawbacks are durability of the trim and reliability. When mine was 5 years old it started becoming expensive with radiator, gearbox and other issues. The rubber seals around the windows also started to wear at which point I sold it. Great car but needs some $$$ and TLC to maintain.

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  330xi Review - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Ulf Gustafson - February 2 - 3:13 am

  I have owned 8 BMWs since 1973, everything from a 320i to a 740i, a M5 and a 540i. The 330xi is probably the best "overall" car I have driven all these years. It has only been a few weeks, but I can already tell that this car will be a favorite. Excellent power, phenomenal ergonomics and handling on a par with an M3. I opted for all the options and even like the iDrive system with on board navigation. The new 3 series is the more handsome of the " Chris Bangle" era, but heed my advice and opt for the Sport package with 18" style 162 wheels. It is the ONLY way of making the 330 look handsome; The standard car with 17" wheels and no options looks terrible and that includes the 325.

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  Used 2001 BMW 330 XI - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Laurie - January 31 - 8:31 pm

  We bought this car used 2 years ago and our love affair with it has not ceased from the moment it first beautified our driveway. Fun to drive (I wanted a manual and am so pleased with the 5-speed manual on this car), great power, looks gorgeous, fantastic Harmon-Kardon stereo system (stuck in traffic? great!) and did I mention fun to drive? Also, no mechanical/reliability issues and the minor issues that have popped up were covered under BMWs used- car extended warranty.

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  Just like old times! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Kristy - January 30 - 5:03 pm

  this is my 3rd BMW 325i. I fell in love in Germany in 2000 and have loved them every since. The price is great for the comfort, luxury options, driving experience, and safety features. Car insurance is comfortable for a sports car. I like the upgrades on the 2006. For example; run flats, key pod, aux jack for stereo system.

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  So far so fun - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Koho17 - January 28 - 5:16 pm

  I have owned the 2005 330xi for just two weeks. Each time I get behind the wheel it is more enjoyable than the last. It has exceeded my expectations and can only hope it delivers reliability in the future. Although ownership has been brief, I have been nothing but impressed with the product.

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  Dont Worry About Price, Get the 335 - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By BMW4Life - January 27 - 7:16 am

  I originally did not want to spend $46,000 for a car, but the upgrade from the 328 to the 335 is definitly worth it. It is ten times faster, much more agile, and grip to the road is amazing. The Sport Package is also worth the money.

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  Simply the best bmw! - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Jonas Bickford - January 26 - 10:29 pm

  Our 2007 BMW 328i (3.0 litre I6) is one of the best cars out there! The 3.0 litre I6 hasplenty power! The 230 horses has gotten us to 105 EASILY! The only problem weve had so far is an oil leak...that costs about 1k to fix...but its worth having the car! Im not a huge fan of the fake wood on the dash and panels but whatever. Im actually kind of glad we dont have iDrive because ive heard up until 2009 models, iDrive has sucked. The BMW professional sound system is great! Rear seat room is ok...front seats are comfortable enough. Luckily German cars have a lot of pop-on parts. One of the coolest features is the BMW flashlight in the glove compartment! This car is great! We bought it for 8k, but it was really priced at 14k. We bought it in December of 2015. But resale value on BMWs is horrible. This car is GREAT!

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  First BMW - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By jmyers - January 26 - 11:58 am

  This is my first BMW, and I am very pleased. The response is good, gas mileage is around 23 in local driving. I have the optional hard top which is great for the winter months and makes the lines of the car look fantistic. Interior roominess is lacking and rear seat passenger leg room is tight. The car is fun to drive and handling is excellent. I may opt for a 7 series in the near future.