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:

• 

  Get this one if you are looking for a safe car. - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By agoudy - September 30 - 10:12 pm

  This was my first car, purchased it used, and I had it for exactly one month. The car itself overpowered my abilities as a new driver, and I would suggest that only experienced drivers use this car! The brakes were spongy, despite being new performance brakes. I had to really slam on them in order to get the car to stop. The car has a nice, comfortable interior and the controls are a little counter intuitive at first (being a German car) but you will adjust quickly. Also, the leather interior will split at the seams if not taken care of. Overall a nice car for someone who appreciates good handling and a balanced, powerful car. ***I was in a 40 mph head on collision in this car. I ran it directly into a tree. I totaled the car, but came out of the accident unscathed. I had some minor burns on my arms from the air bag, and a mild concussion, but I was otherwise kept safe. The air bags deployed properly, and the car crumpled as it should have. The passenger cab of the vehicle was kept in tact and I had no issues getting out of the car. If safety is a priority for you, I can tell you from first hand experience that this car will keep you safe.***

• 

  Absolutely Perfect - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Abvincent1 - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 03 330 conv after I had numerous fallouts with my 2002 VW Jetta Turbo (engine coil issues). I must say test driving the BMW pulls you in right away--I was hooked immediately. I initially looked at the 325, which I thought was excellent, but something about the 330s motor made me quickly change my mind. This car is truly a gift from God, and I must add it is great at turning heads also. Dont test drive one unless you can afford it because you will be sucked in immediately!

• 

  2003 BMW 325i - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By dtim - September 30 - 10:00 am

  The features of this car far exceed the class. Besides the obvious cold weather features and premium package, the car has features such as noise if coming close on parking, tire sensors, etc Luxurious car. It feels larger inside when riding. Would recommend this car to anyone.

• 

  Pure Purrr Fun - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By BMW GOZ - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Replaced a 1998 323ic convertible and just as excited as the first time. The fun factor of driving these cars just never goes away. Just be careful, you may be flipping a coin with your wife for the drivers seat!

• 

  My favorite one yet - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By Rob Towner - September 28 - 2:00 am

  A bad day at work quickly turns into a smile on your face when you drive away in this car. It has all the power you want and at your pedal no matter what speed you are at. Smooth suspension, tight steering, easy shifting, and the true meaning of the ultimate driving experience. This is the best car I have owned and would highly recommend to anyone wanting the best of all worlds.

• 

  Great Car - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By Catch_19 - September 25 - 2:00 am

  I love to drive my BMW. I have 129,000 miles on it and it still feels like new. It does leek a small bit of oil, but when I change the oil the oil level is still up to the top.

• 

  Great car - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Sue L - September 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car new when first released in 1999 and the only problem Ive had is with the sunroof shade. Ive had the panel and tracks replaced twice. The car is mechancially sound, rides great even without the sport pkg. Harmon Kardon stereo system is great although after a near accident, the CD player skips on bumpy roads. Exceptional gas mileage. Comfortable and fun to drive.

• 

  Best first car - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By stephen - September 24 - 10:00 am

  Wow!! This is such a great car!! I just got it for my 16th birthday! I drove an audi, infiniti, tsx and some may be a little faster but i cant tell. I like the way the steering wheel is really tight. I got the premium and sport package the heated seats xenon lights leather auto wood trim and HK sound system. All of those options are great! You wont regret buying this car.

• 

  2004 330cic was worth the wait - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By SteveH - September 24 - 10:00 am

  Ordered a 2003 in Jan then changed my order to the 2004 model as soon as they were announced. Took a few extra months (did euro delivery) but I am so glad I did. (1) got the new mystic blue and (2) got the 6 speed manual. The 3.0 litre engine is as sweet a 6 cyl as youll ever find. If you are in the market for a convertible, drive this one last (then you will be right there at the dealership when you place your order!)

• 

  10 years old and still a cool car! - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By filoux31 - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I dreamed about this car for years. One day, I decide to buy a used one (in fact, my purse decide)! And... I still love this car. Mine has 10 years old and 190,000 km but drive better than a lot of new ones, believe me ) Just the A/C disappointed me (Its very fragile and cost a lot to repair) and the body near the wings... watch the rust! In general, the gas mileage is very good: Around 10L/100km.