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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  Second to none - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By glddmr - April 23 - 2:00 am

  Driven 6 years everywhere from HI & FLA to NY & CT. In deep snow with studded tires and hi speed cross country. NEVER had a mech prob in 113000 miles. Taught wife to drive clutch in 3 days in it, then went to sea for 2 wks. Still on first clutch. I drive it like it has twice the pwr it does. I love it. When the engine dies in another 120000 miles Im putting a v-6 in it and driving another 250000.

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  Joy to own - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By carski7 - April 23 - 2:00 am

  Ive loved driving this car all year round sun, rain, and snow!! Biggest problem was ball joints every 20k mi seemed to be due to lack of rotating tires soon enough and abusive Detroit roads. Now all OK. Radio and Climate just stopped working--cert pre owned warranty was good!

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  Harman Kardon is a good upgrade - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By drjwu - April 20 - 10:00 am

  Got too sleepy driving a 97 ES300. At test drive the S4 was fun, and A4 clutch is the easiest to use. But the 325xi gives the best road feel and sense of control, and is more comfortable than the X3 with punishing ride even though it performs amazingly for an SUV. The options make the 325xi as exquisite as a Lexus. The 2.5L is smooth and quiet; the car is great to drive and corner, only a bit underpowered. The Harman Kardon is no Mark Levinson, but it has good tonal balance (acoutic enhancement OFF), defined bass, good detail and dynamics, much better than the Nakamichi upgrade on my RX300. I finally enjoy listening to CDs in the car. Well worth the extra cost.

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  Ridiculous Cost of Repairs - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By mjsaad - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I have loved this car for the past 5 years UNTIL I have had two repairs totalling $1,000.00 already and the issue is in the high cost of the parts. The fuel pump costed $250, which can be argued as my fault, BUT the $900 bill for fixing a leaking air condensor and drier was ridiculous. What is next? Maybe the $5,000 + engine? I am now concerned and am ready to trade in this car for another brand.

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  Review - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By dvev - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Its a good automobile. I never plan to sell it. I also plan never to sell it.

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  THE ABSOLUTE BEST - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By EARLA - April 15 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever had, it has everything sport look, fun to drive and elegant. I love the looks; BMW has every option available so I got em, the Nav system is awsome, so is the on board computer. Speed is a whole other matter, I love it as I pass other people who just stop and stare; quite frankly, if had to do it again I would buy the same car. Dont care how much it cost.

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  Perfect except for reliablity - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By davidsmith - April 14 - 2:00 am

  Bit on the pricy side with only 170hp, since most japanese competition now offer 200 or more. But it doesnt feel slow by any means. Design and materials used in the cabin are top notch. Too bad they rattle like nissan sentra. Lots of minor problems, like airbag light being on constantly,(fixed 4 times already) but probably more fun to drive than lot of sport cars. Minor body roll without sport package.

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  07 335i Cabby - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Craig - April 13 - 7:29 pm

  Check for recalls, I had only 1. This thing is a blast to drive, its just as fast as an M3, and has a much smoother ride. Watch the speedo, it will easily get away from your attention span. On a recent road trip, my wife was crushing at 100mph, she was very surprised.

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  love it...quirky though - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By ole - April 13 - 2:00 am

  this car is SO much fun to drive. BMW makes a quality car, but crazy german electrical rears its ugly head.

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  RIDES LIKE A ROCK, Road vibration - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By r baldwi - April 10 - 4:33 pm

  This new 06 330 rides like they forgot to put tires on it. Road vibration works its way up the steering wheel and after an hour of hi-way driving your hands start to tingle. Car shimmies at 50mph. The I-drive system has the speed of a 15 year old computer. Too much road noise enters the car. My old 01 330 much much better. One would think that they could consider the ride and some confort on newer models but they took it away. Great car if you travel over 75 mph all the time & take almost any corner at that speed and you really like feeling the road. I dont recommend it to the people that drive the speed limit on average roads. This car is not worth the money if you drive the speed limit.