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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  German autobahn and twisty roads - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Joe - May 9 - 9:50 pm

  Only options were Sport package and silver color on 6spd manual US spec. After 1200 miles it is surprisingly fast and fun to drive on German roads (B-50 near Nürburgring) more than what I expected from a car. Very stable at 145 MPH on Autobahn. Good stereo, easy to clean wheels, hate the in and out of the vehicle (med. male 170 lbs driver) and steering wheel tilt stinks, must get iPod option when buying or pay 3x more when dealer installed after, average of 21 MPG so far on premium fuel, new for 08 white LED for door and license plate, only a fender side repeater lens with water condensation problem that is being replaced by dealer warranty so far. Definitely would buy again.

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  Superb Sport Wagon - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Derek Simpkins - May 8 - 8:26 pm

  The new 325 XiT is a superbly designed wagon that is a joy to drive. Coming from a 330i sedan, I was somewhat skeptical that the 325 engine would have enough power, but it is more than adequate unless you are seeking a dragster. The versatility of the wagon, the X-drive, the exterior design and amazing features like the panorama sunroof all combine to make this machine the ultimate wagon. With perfect 50:50 F/R weight distribution and X-drive, this car has amazing cornering capabilities and the same wonderful steering found all of the 3 series.

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  NICE ~ FUN ~ CAR - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Debi - May 7 - 3:46 pm

  This is my first BMW, my husbands second, I bought it for his 50th birthday gift; he has driven it a handful of times. If I let him, lol. (I stole it from him!) We both love it! Along with our 3 kids. We have had just about every car out there. IT IS FUN! We all love it!

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  Completely Happy - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Cfarmer - May 7 - 2:00 am

  This is my first BMW, I have had almost one of the other german autos and I have to say this is the finest of the bunch. Great style, excellent interior, plenty of power, and as good fuel milage as my past VW. THe other up is you dont feel like an old timer driving this car like I did in my Mercedes.

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  Great Car - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By stev1ap - May 6 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. It was in great condition when I bought the car so I have not had to many problems with it. Little stuff like the drivers electric door lock messed up. That only cost me $150 to fix so not to bad. My water pump messed up and cost me $300, but I am told that it is common on these cars if the original pump is still in there. It has 80K miles on it. But the motor purrs like a kitten. It runs GREAT!

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  Very Reliable, Fun to drive, Classic - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By OrlandoGuyz - May 6 - 2:00 am

  My car has 112000k miles. Everything works-still, and its nine years old. My friends want me to get the X-5, but I dont think I can part with my convertible. Its a very quick 5spd, and still tight. People always watch when I put the top up or down. I still get many compliments. Would and will another. No problems, except on occassion message center says brake lite out...which is a quirk on these. Car is definately the Ultimate Tanning Machine....

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  Old Girl Keeps Ticking - 1993 BMW 3-Series
  By Xman - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I have owned 5 other cars since being able to drive and the 325is is undoubtedly the best vehicle I have owned. I currently have over 191,000 miles on the original engine and it performs better than most vehicles with less than a third of those miles.

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  Amazing car !!! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By JMS - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I have the 330Ci with manual transmission and fully loaded minus the navigation system. This car provides the perfect blend of performance, luxury, and sportiness. The acceleration is amazing and the handling is flawless. I have read comparos with the IS 300 stating that the Lexus is a better handler. On smooth, racetrack-like pavement this may be true, but the 330 holds its composure much better on the imperfect roads-- which is usually what we encounter daily. You cant go wrong with this car. If you are considering the 325, make sure you drive both back to back. There is a substantial difference in acceleration and clutch feel plus some added amenities. No regrets.

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  2002 BMW 325i - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By LGBAaron - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Absolutely fabulous - well worth the money

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  DONT CRY--DONT TELL - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By cruslo - May 1 - 2:00 am

  I BOUGHT THE 2004 325CI WITH 16 MILES ON IT 3 WEEKS AGO. 2WEEKS AFTER PURCHASE THE TRANSMISSION BEGINS MALFUNCTIONING BETWEEN REVERSE AND DRIVE.I AM TOLD BY THE SALESMAN THAT THE CAR IS A CAR THAT NEEDS TO WARMED BEFORE DRIVING. I DECIDE TO TAKE IT IN FOR SERVICE AND I COME TO FIND THAT THERE IS A SILENT RECALL ON THE TRANSMISSION. I AM GIVEN DOCUMENTS STATING , FROM BMW, THAT IF A CUSTOMER COMPLAINS ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION FAILING BETWEEN PARK AND DRIVE HE OR SHE IS A CANDIDATE FOR A UPGRADE REPLACEMENT. OTHERWISE IF THE CUSTOMER DOES NOT COMPLAIN DO NOT SAY A THING