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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  Not what I expected - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By DHB - December 29 - 5:33 am

  Always wanted a BMW 3-series with 6-speed manual. Fell in love with the 2007 coupe, but way past that now. Underwhelming acceleration and torque below 2700 RPM. Tranny has been big disappointment. Maddening HVAC and radio controls. Poorly shaped and sized storage cubbies. Cant see instrument lights with sunglasses. Under 3K miles had to replace driveshaft. At 4K, weird vibration in clutch pedal. Dealer diagnosed bad throwout bearing and replaced whole clutch. The vibration got worse! Now they tell me itll "break-in" after 10-15K miles. Its hard to enjoy my "drivers car" when my clutch foot is tingling, and Im being tortured by diabolically illogical controls and wretched ergonomics.

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  Good - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By bobby hill - December 24 - 5:43 am

  This car is very Nice and has a lot more room than you would think. It also is a very FUN ride.

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  Good car...some minor problems - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By rojo - December 24 - 2:00 am

  Really fun car to drive...I bought it for my son and I love driving it also..I have a new audi a4 and the BMW still rides as well. Have had all the typical 92 bmw problems. water pump, rear shocks, thermostat, hoses...but, overall a great car...I do wish the labor was cheaper...car mechanics see BMW and charge you acordingly...they see ya coming...

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  The Ultimate Driving Machine - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By Shawn Carter - December 24 - 2:00 am

  EVERYTHING. THE VEHICLE IS MAGNIFICANT. I WOULD RECOMMEND IT TO ANYONE WHO CAN AFFORD IT. LOL. I HAVE WANTED ONE SINCE I HAVE BEEN 8 NOW I AM 20 AND I OWN ONE! IT IS SO MUCH FUN TO DRIVE I WANT TO DRIVE IT 24/7. THE FEEL OF BEING IN SO MUCH CONTROL IS MAGNIFICANT AND IT HAS A DRIVE LIKE NO OTHER! IT IS TRULY THE ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE!

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  Great car - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By rmc100 - December 21 - 3:46 pm

  Ive had my 328xi for a few weeks now. Ive been a loyal X5 driver (3 of them!) over the past 10 years. I decided to get better gas mileage and cheaper car payment, but didnt want to sacrifice BMW ride. Ive not been disappointed. The car is fun to drive and handles great. Even though it doesnt have the high sight lines of the SUV, the coupes big doors actually give you a wider field of view. (Im tall, so I sit back far from the wheel, so even in the X5, I could see the side posts in my blind spot.) The car is light, so the power of the smaller engine feels stroner than the X5. Sure, theres less room all around -- but with the seats folded down, it carries a nice load.

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  WOW, Finally got the BMW 3 - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By caniban - December 21 - 6:50 am

  Had Acura TL & Lexus IS300 before the 330i. My take: Ordered steptronic, way good but I just drove my buddys M3 w/SMG. Should of got SMG. Performace: I drove his M3 before picking up my 330, thought I be discontent, nope! Got Nav: isnt intuitive as Acura but does the job. Idrive: cant believe all the bad press, wouldnt have ordered it but comes w/Nav. Anyway, I love the custom programmable settings. No wonder MB, Audi & Porsche are all coming out with their own versions. SIRIUS: I like programing better than XM but the reception blows, not BMWs bad. Terra seats look sweet! Only one CD but it reads MP3 too. On SIRUS or IPOD exclusively anyway. Overall, the 330i is a complete package!

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  Hard to Replace - 1993 BMW 3-Series
  By gborana - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I stretched my finances when I bought this car and Ive never regretted it for a second. Ive got 190,000 miles on it to date -- many of them hard driven miles -- and I still look back to admire it after Ive parked it. Yes, I have had more repairs than Id like, most were things that cant help but wear out with such miles, but some are not, such as the mechanism that changes the air flow from floor heat to defrost. Also, I was in an "accordian" accident (front and rear end) about a year ago, and that lead to several problems with the passenger window. But the engine itself still purrs and operates beautifully.

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  BMW Smile - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Ted C - December 19 - 2:33 pm

  This is my first BMW, had I known it was this good, I would have gotten one a long time ago. Test drove many others in its class but this car is head and shoulders above the rest. The others, although very well constructed and outfitted, were like riding on a comfy couch going down the highway, the BMW, you DRIVE. Ride, handling, acceleration all perfectly melded into truly an "Ultimate Driving Machine". This car is almost too much fun to drive. Hopefully it will not be too hazardous to my driving record!

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  The ultimate driving piece of **** - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By johnj - December 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought a new 2003 BMW 330CIC. What a mistake! Within 2 months, I started having problems. First the warning lights would go on for no apparent reason. I would bring it in to the shop and they would "hook it up to the computer" and tell me nothing was wrong. Then my car started sputtering and they replaced the choke valve. Next, my car just stopped running. 2 more trips to the shop and 2 roadside assistances later, I finally unloaded this "ultimate driving machine." I had hoped to get another BMW thinking this was just a fluke, but dealing with the dealership and BMW headquarters made me see the light. I love my lexus!

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  It is what it is - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By JrB - December 19 - 2:00 am

  I bought used @ 36k, (60k now) I have had it for 4 years and not a problem. It is a small compact car and that is what you get...and a little more. Very fun and good gas mileage.