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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  Why do BMWs fall apart so fast? - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By pylt - June 17 - 2:00 am

  At first it was a passionate love affair every drive was special. But now, only 20,000 miles later . . . Im looking to get out of it. Combine the arrogance of their dealers, with the abnoxious behavior of their NJ HQs personnel, and what do you have? A terrible product that, even though it drives well, isnt worth the grief that it puts you through. Things gone wrong: 1. suspension bushing fell out 2. drinks coolant (and no one knows where it goes) 3. its on its 3rd set of cup holders 4. radio speakers giving up the ghost 5. AC always recirculates cant stop 6. steering wheel squeeks (but only when away from the dealership) 7. other probs 2.

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  head bolt failure - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By GVunhappy - June 14 - 8:07 pm

  BMW knows about the problem with the two aluminum head bolts that fail but will not assist customers when failure is out of warranty. Also quality of materials used in the interior is cheap. Leather does not hold up and plastic trim on doors actually melts.

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  Too good to be true! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Waiter - June 13 - 10:00 am

  This was a car I thought would be very good. I was wrong. It is truly superior to any car I have ever driven or owned (this is my 12th purchase). The car handles perfectly. The engine has more power than I will ever need. I can barely tell when the auto changes gear. The steptronic adds some excitement as well. A true 9.9 out of 10!!!

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  Not quite what I though it would be - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By chanandaler bong - June 12 - 2:00 am

  Great commuter...not quite the performance I thought it would be, really not much quicker than my old vw jetta, except that it handles the corners much much better. Fun on the off and on ramps!!!

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  No contest! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By bees330ci - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! I just purchased it used and I have to say everything I read about this car is the absolute truth. The power delivery, the handling, the connectiveness to the road, the luxury. All in combination makes for a terrific vehicle.

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  Still the Benchmark Performance Marque - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By KTA - June 12 - 2:00 am

  This is my 2nd BMW, the other a 7 series. This 325Ci has the same "connected" road feel and precise permormance characteristics elevated to a higher degree.The controls have a firm, positive feel andeverything is always in control, smooth and stable at any speed. The "performance package" offers great seats, but my only complaint is that they are annoying to adjust manually...switching drivers takes some setting up time.

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  Get the Sport Package!!!! - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By usualsuspect - June 12 - 2:00 am

  As with many of the reviewers I test drove everything in the class. Infiniti G35, Saab 9-3 Vector, Volvo S60, Benz 240, Audi A4. The deciding factor for me was my second test drive in the BMW that had the tighter suspention and sport package. Without the sport package the field is a lot closer in my opinion. With the sport package the BMW handles significantly better and provides a more aggressive performance ride. The 17 inch wheels are much better looking also. I will be a BMW owner for life if they continue to produce attractive looking cars with this level of driving performance.

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  Great Car - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By msknet1 - June 11 - 2:00 am

  I have had my 2000 323iA for almost two years and the vehicle has 80k on the odometer. I drive over 100 mi round trip to work every day and average 30+ mpg on the highway during the warmer months. Overall average is 27+ mpg. I use dedicated snow tires during the winter and the car is wonderful in bad conditions. I have the required servicing performed and change the oil and filter at 8k intervals. I value this car for its driving characteristics, safety and overall appearance. Best car I have ever owned. Wife wants to drive it all the time as well. When I compare to other vehicles, I keep coming back to BMW. This is my 5th BMW over the past 20 yrs.

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  What a car... - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By DR - June 8 - 7:03 pm

  Just got my new 325i with Sport Package. Wow, for years, I have driven VWs, Hondas...but this is totally different thing. I am glad I got it and it is definitely worth every dime. Outside is beautiful, compact, but just the way its supposed to be. Inside is perfect, from the layouts to the available room, which is great for the class of this automobile. The car is super quiet, but roars nicely when stepped on it. Sport package is definitely worth the money. Leatherette looks and feels great. I could go on, and on...

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  WOW....mercedes owner reformed - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By awdyer - June 7 - 10:00 am

  what a cool little car,....all german...all sports car...all class...have had 4 mercedes...and year by year they get more chrysler-ish...a true shame...but bmw is still a true european machine...and now with the 100% maintenance...INCLUDING brakes ! wow...sily smooth car........