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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  Tall folks should be weary of seats - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By backpain - August 25 - 2:00 am

  The BMW has a great sporty solid feel, and holds the road well. Cross wind performance in this car is also excellent. I liked the car very much "except" the seats. I am approx. 61 and over the 1 year I owned this car the seats became more and more uncomfortable. Several times I complained and requested some help from the dealer and BMW, and I never got satisfaction. This eventually due to extreme discomfort forced me to sell. Be careful if you are thinking of purchasing this car and you are tall.

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  Its a BMW - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By wrld traveler - August 24 - 10:00 am

  2nd Bimmer, first a 96 328is which I loved. Decided to go for the new design in 01 w/ the 325ci. I got one of the first ones so I took what I could get. Prem. pkg, auto trans., no xenons(big disapointment!!). Great car, handles like a dream although! Perfect for a college student (a kid has an M5 on campus..parents must want him dead). NOT too fast, but not too slow at the same time and its extremely safe. I drove the 330ci after much hype (sales guy was like "this thing is a rocket, better be careful!") my girlfriend and I were very disapointed..we were expecting a very fast car..even my 328is felt faster.I will probably always stick with the bimmers..next up is the M3 coupe w/SMG

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  So glad - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Jason - August 24 - 4:50 am

  Just got the car 3 days ago and man is it awesome. Went to the dealership to get M3 info, walked out with the 335i coupe. Traded my 07 vette for it, and I dont regret it one bit. Its not quite as fast but it drives much better. It handles well, the interior is rich and comfortable with options galore. Its like the current M3 in performance with a smoother, more quiet ride. Perfect for me. The new M3 surely will be my next car, if I can get one in the next 2 yrs. I still need to get used to the iDrive and all the features it comes with. Real time traffic will be useful.

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  The Finest in German Engineering - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By Trin->Starr - August 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought my BM used in 2002, and this car is AMAZING. There are few quirks that seem to happen with all BMWs but they are not life threatening, or highly irritating. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone. Dealership fees are a bit exorbitant, but look around where you live, you will find some that specialize in BMWs and other german cars. The internet also has a great repository of information on how to fix/repair, and troubleshoot. Most of them can be done by yourself

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  I love BMW - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Jerry - August 24 - 12:36 am

  I have passed 1000 miles on my new 3 series. I am very happy with the manueverability, accuracy and responsiveness of the car to pedal and brake. The seat heating is quite fast making it useful for this season. I loved the 335 too, but it did not have an AWD version.

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  Very Satisfied, but - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Upstate - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Overall, the performance, roadhandling, and drivability of this model BMW is outstanding. Also, the interior design and comfort is all you could ask for from this size vehicle. The one disappointment is its poor road handling on snowy roads. My car came with 17" low profile all-season tires that track very poorly on snowy roads. Snow tires are a must in winter environments. Another negative impact of cold weather on my BMWs engine is about a 20% reduction in gas mileage.

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  330i with PP - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By nbostonguy - August 19 - 2:00 am

  The Performance Package option may look a bit expensive, but the added tweaks are well worth it. Drive this car hard, and it wont complain. The ride is firm, but supple and not as jarring as an M can be. This car intuitively knows where I want it to go, and it feels confident and safe at any speed. I thought the steering wheel was a little weird at first (that suede stuff), but now it feel right. A truly awesome machine.

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  BMW 330CI Coupe Special Sports Edition - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Hoke Mueller - August 19 - 2:00 am

  The car is not cheap, expecially this sports edition. But as with all BMWs you get your moneys worth. The 3-series is still the best car in the world in its class. My car has 6 cyl engine producing 235 hp whihe is more than most 5-series cars. In this car everything is power. Power steering wheel, power windows including rear windows, power rear shades,3-way power seats incl passenger side, seat heating both front seats, Ski bag, 8 speaker Harmon Kardon CD player, Xenon headlights, power 2-way sunroof etc etc But what makes this car so special is its precise steering and acceleration. It is indeed the ultimate driving machine !!!

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  323i update with 115k miles - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By Jimbo 323i - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Heres an update since my last posting 17k miles ago. I discovered my independent BMW mechanic is a liar,(I followed up on his work). I dont trust dealers either. I have learned to do all maintenance myself. I still have the airbag light on, but will be replacing my seat belt tensioners/buckle and resetting airbag light, apparently this is a common problem to air bag lights coming on. Here is what I have done to the car so far at 100k miles, all done by myself. Replaced all 4 oxygen sensors. Changed out the Automatic transmission lifetime oil with the same,

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  Great car - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Vroom2 - August 16 - 3:20 pm

  Traded my E36 for this one and all that was wrong with the old one has been fixed with this model. Much better trim quality and power delivery than previous model. Definitely the best car Ive ever owned and the most fun and stylish way to get from A to B.