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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  What a car! - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By Jameseye - October 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my first BMW and it is a good introduction to the brand. I have owned other sports sedans in the past but none have had the performance with the size of engine that this car has. I feel like I am driving a v6 and often leave others at the light.

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  watch out for the factory defect. - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By bimmer guru - October 21 - 2:00 am

  intereting little car with lots of features. not a really fast ride but okay for a slow weekend drive.

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  1998 BMW 318ti Sport - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By BB Fan - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Exception handling and braking. Great gas mileage. Sports package is exception and car looks great. Car is fun to drive and is a real head turner.

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  2003 325ia - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Dmark - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Without a doubt, the most fun car to drive. It handles extremely well on all types of roads and traffic.Its built like a rock with no squeeks or rattles to be found anywhere.It takes curves without any sway or loss of control( at higher speeds ).I find it to be a perfect blend of balance,performance and road handling.

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  chfinkelberg - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By chfinkelberg - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Is fan to drive and feels safe. Very good handling in the city and haigh way. My window got some how noice and I had to bring it to the dealer for repair.

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  One of the best cars ever!! - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Fender58 - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for about four weeks I bought used 2000 model with 57,700 mls. on it. I wanted a 540i, but, couldnt really afford one (without robbing Peter to pay Paul). Car is extremely responsive, smooth, handles superb basically, everything I expected it to be and more. There is something to all the hype about BMWs. It has been a dream of mine since I was a teenager to own a BMW. I will definately get another one when the time comes.

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  After a year and 14,000 miles... - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By ChuckA - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I reviewed this car a year ago, since then, I have put 14,000 miles on. The car is still a blast to drive and handles like a dream. I have put a K&N filter and the M3 cat back and fuel economy is great. I average 27 MPG. The car has 76,000 and still gets 27MPG. It is fast and comfortable in all driving situations. Add 17" wheels and tires to firm up the ride and cornering. I can only say that if you are looking for a good buy for a good car, the 328 is the answer. A great looking sedan that thinks it is a coupe.

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  Another Fun BMW - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By solin - October 18 - 8:30 am

  I drove a 2002 BMW 325i and it was a fun car to drive. Just bought the 328i with Premium and Sports PKG. This car is powerful and fun to drive. The car feels solid and the communication with the road is second to none. The engine power and overall excellent driving experience is what you would expect from a BMW. The brakes are solid and make you feel confident your care will stop on a dime. Transmission, engine and every other component work in precise unison. The car still gets a lot of stares when on the road. Im always looking for any excuse to drive it! The car is pricey in comparison to some of the competition but worth the money.

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  I love that car!!! - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By HL1981 - October 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is so fun to drive!

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  Love it but problems - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By RPHSR - October 13 - 10:00 am

  Have put 85000 miles on it since 01/00. Mostly highway. Need to repaint ($1475) bumper, hood, front of fenders, not so much from stone chips but from tiny white speckels from worn away paint. BMW provided parts(I the labor $271) at 69000 to rebuild the front steering.Under warranty replaced front rotors and pads, trunk lock twice, power moonroof once, wood trim on driver handle (now cracked again). Love my Harmom/Kardon sound.