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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  One thing that you should know - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Christian - September 22 - 5:23 pm

  By far this is a great car. I live in Orange County, CA, its my 2nd lease of a 3-series. One thing that bothers me is the tires that BMW decided to put on these cars. They Bridgstone Turanza EL 42 Model RFT (Run Flat Tires), it comes standard on all BMW. I have about 600 miles on the car and just had a nail on of the tires. BMW dealer would not patch this and tires are not part of warranty. Costs about $300/tire to get a new one each time you have a bad luck running over a nail. In addition, they last only about 10,000 - 15,000 without mileage warranty from Bridgestone.

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  BUY IT OR GET LEFT IN THE DUST!!! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By RAM - September 20 - 7:10 pm

  Incredible driving experience and good looks! i just bought a Graphite 325i w/sport and premium and the first day i drove over 100 miles including twisted roads in Malibu canyon and it was a blast...i couldnt stop driving! The graphite color and sport package are musts! It corners flat with the sport package and the wheels look better. Put it in sport mode and you can pass anyone... Will definitely stand out in a crowd! Girls will smile at you, even if they are with a guy! (happened twice the first night!) Maintenance is included so stop driving a honda and get one

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  Gotta luv the Bimmer - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Tyra - September 20 - 10:03 am

  I traded my 2001 325i for this new and improved model. I am so impressed. I thought my first one was great, however everything i thought it should have had was put into this one. The Ipod jack, and running tires floored me. I will probably never own another brand. How can you go to a regular car after driving a Bimmer?

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  Best Performance Car Around - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Brent - September 18 - 6:06 pm

  The car performs like a dream. Highly recommended. All wheel drive is awesome in the rain. Larger interior space a big plus this year.

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  The ultimate standard! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By George T. - September 17 - 9:36 am

  Having had three BMW 5 Series, I had to experience the 2006 325I to understand how much of an improvement BMW made to the 3 Series to nearly challenge the 5! It has everything my 528i and 525is had, plus more HP and size. Only 7 inches shorter that the 5 Series and with an increased trunk space, the extra 20 horsepower makes all the difference. Plus, my 325i doesnt have the infamous I-drive!

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  Finally got my BMW - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Finally a BMW - September 17 - 3:56 am

  I waited a long time to get a BMW. Its fun to drive and is the best engineered car I have ever had. Nothing at all on the car is loose, or makes any type of rattle or squeak. The Bluetooth works exceptionally well. The car rides very hard though and has a tremendous amount of road noise due to the Run Flat tires - there is so much road noise and the seats are very uncomfortable so I will not be keeping this car when the lease is up. I love the power folding side mirrors - they really help to make more space in the garage when walking between the two cars.

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  safe, fun, and EXPENSIVE - 1993 BMW 3-Series
  By bimmerdriver - September 17 - 2:00 am

  Been in two accidents and the car saved my life. Lots of little things that go wrong cost a ton of money. For example, a new window switch cost $45 at the dealership. The wheel cover with the BMW emblem came off--$75 and you cant get it at an auto store. Very fun to drive as long as the RPMs get up over 3k, and its awesome in the summer, although to fix the top will cost $1,500--forget it, Ill run it manually. Safe, fun, and expensive.

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  Sweet Ride - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Maria Sach - September 15 - 10:50 pm

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  318i is a great car! - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By DawnFlook - September 15 - 2:00 am

  As a 53" female this car fits me great! And it is so reliable - I have 170K+ miles and havent changed the clutch yet. Three years ago, I had a front end accident and I was able to walk away with only a seatbelt bruise. This is a great car - Im keeping mine to at least 200K miles, if not longer.

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  A Fantastic Car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By BMW123456789 - September 15 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the best examples of an introduction line. While the car it self may not have the power of the 325 it is an incredible joy to drive. The car handles like its on rails and it sings when the revs are high.