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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  Smooth as Silk - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By paonlou - May 25 - 2:00 am

  3.0 litre engine packs nice punch, with tight handling to go along. Comfortable cockpit with great adjustable leather seats.

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  What a machine! - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Mr_Skins - May 25 - 2:00 am

  They werent kidding when they said "The ultimate driving machine." This car is amazing. It feels as though it were glued to the road, and the suspension is heavenly (sporty and tough, yet offers a smooth ride) -- the car acts as though it were molded out of one big chunk of metal. The interior is first-rate, and theres a surprising amount of passenger space.

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  Great Car - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Roundel - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Operates like a fine machine. 12K miles and it is only getting better - with most vehicles I have grown tired/indifferent with them by now. Engine is smooth and responsive - Steptronic is a shifting dream in auto- mode / fun in manual mode. Sticks to curvy roads like glue with a stiff and responsive suspension - yet smooths out the orugh spots without getting unruly.

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  Good performer, questionable reliability - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Jason - May 24 - 11:16 am

  After test driving several makes and models, I bought the 335i xDrive with the sports package and nav. The car has been in the shop for approximately 2 of the 6 weeks that I have owned the car... so far (issues with a coolant pump). Car drives well on dry road but during our recent snow storm, the car had poor traction despite xDrive and the car slips and slides with the slightest braking. Most likely due to the tires that come with the Sports package. When I drove the 328xi loaner car, while my car was in the shop, it drove well in the snow. Overall, a good looking sleek car with good performance and features.

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  Good, but.... - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Tenngizmo - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I like a lot of aspects of this car. Great appearance, pin-point handling and rock-solid brakes. However, Ive had several annoying and far too numerous electrical problems. I dont think this car has ever gone more than 90 days without a problem of one sort or another. Ive heard of other people with the same kind of problems. German build quality is good, but they should send their electrical guys back to school.

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  My second BMW - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By ameriyreal - May 20 - 10:00 am

  This is my second BMW, I bought it with only 900 miles. I traded in my 323i 00 for this awesome 325ci. This car is much better than my 2000. Silver, silver trim in the inside, sports package, the sound of the engine for the 5 speed manual is very aggresive. I am going to buy the Xenon lights since I miss them (my 2000 had them). BMW is the way to go. Girls are attracted to them.

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  Luv2plz - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Hai614 - May 20 - 10:00 am

  Im so in love w/ bad boy. The ride is so smooth and responsive, way better than I expected. The body styling is so buff and sexy that catches many eyes on the road.

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  Better Every Day! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By gary41 - May 19 - 5:46 am

  Pictures and quick test drive do not do justice for this car. It excels in every arena; from getting 40mpg on the fwy to having tons of power to the interior comfort, I cant wait to drive my 325 each morning and look for excuses to go somewhere.

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  1995 BMW 325i - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By riskytakr - May 19 - 2:00 am

  An outstanding vehicle for the price (<10K). A good way to experience the ultimate driving machine at less than half the cost. Due diligence is necessary though as our vehicle was previously damaged and undisclosed/ignorance claimed by the dealership about the trunk and right rear quarter-panel. Despite this, the vehicle proved to be mechanically top notch with replacements necessary only for track use. This is our daily driver and it is solid. It averages around 21 MPG which is approx. the norm despite the occasional spirited driving.

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  Bought Used 2011 328i X in Nov 2016 - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By BMWLifer - May 12 - 6:20 am

  Had to spend $600 for a sparkplug coil and tuneup when it failed a month after I bought it. Then $100 for an oil change because I could tell how dirty the oil was from the dash indicator (there is no dipstick) , and then it started to produce a oil burning smell (prior to oil change) inside the cabin when the car is sitting and idling. Had to replace valve cover gasket(VCG), valvetronic gasket, and some other small gasket nearby. I also replace the eccentric shaft sensor( while they had the cover off..they recommended it)so it made sense to when they had everything off. that was another $1200, I previously owned a 87 325i and spend about $11k in repairs for the 6 years I owned it . I also had a 96 328i for about 10yrs and spend about $15k in repair over those years. So I knew about spending more in Maintainence when I bought it but its well worth it to have one of the "Utimate Drving Machine"s