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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  This is one kicking car. - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By John Sullivan - April 9 - 2:00 am

  Coming from a car history of teh 1980s this car is awesome. I have driven explorers,a nd Durangos but I love this car. 1985 BMW 524td (yes a Diesel) 1989 Volvo 240 GL Bow my 1997 E36 (318i) and I love it. Fun, zuppy, great mileage and its supposed to all be recyclable. Kudos BMW. Save the World.

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  2006 330i Sport Pkg - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Pietro - April 8 - 8:53 pm

  All around super car with a balances level performance and comfort.

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  Celebrating 1 year with my BMW - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By gregnick - April 6 - 10:00 am

  After one year and 28000 miles I could not be happier with this car. I have only had to do one oil change, which was covered under warranty and put gas in the tank. I have had zero problems. Its the best car I have ever owned. I cant beleive I was even considering a Camry when I bought this car.

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  BMW 321 Convertible - 1990 - 1990 BMW 3-Series
  By n66wxm - April 5 - 2:00 am

  I put 60 (interstate) miles per day.. Wonderful to drive.. Maintenance expensive. Lots of power & performance, biggest problem is staying within the speed limit.. Nothing is more eligant with the top down.. What a ride !!

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  Great car, maintenance nightmare - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By cats-rule - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I love this car, but hate the maintenance. I did not want to have this close a relationship with a service department. The service department is great and they treat you well, but they charge you tons of money and your car is there a lot.

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  My Favorite Car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Binkley - April 2 - 3:03 am

  This car drives better than any other. It corners especially well. The exterior styling is exceptional, I love it. I just wish I could have order the car, but I had to take the best I could find in dealer stock. I managed to find almost all that I wanted, but I would have preferred the aluminum trim, split-folding rear seats and comfort access, which I dont have. I wish the car had a better MP3 disk player. It doesnt provide track duration, and Im having issues with it strangely adjusting the volume and sound field in the middle of tracks with s-vol set at zero. Im waiting for my first oil change (at 5,200 miles now) to have the sound system checked.

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  Good 330ci - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By lsquare100 - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Minimum Problems. Unbelievable handling in wet weather.

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  Ultimate (FUN) Driving Machine - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By GTU - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Drives and handles great. A little short on low end power,but hang on above 3500 rpm. First car Ive had in a long time that can accelerate in high gear.

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  Be ware of your local BMW shop - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By saltyswede - March 29 - 2:00 am

  Took my car to S.F. BMW for a 60k check up. I was told that the cost would be 650. They then took of new wiperblades and replaced them etc. alot of hidden costs. They told me that the radiator was leaking and said that it with the "plastic waterpump and thermostate housing" at a cost of 3800. I took the car to a independent shop who informed me that the production date of my car indicated that it would not have the plastic waterpump. If you need parts for your BMW try the Partsbin.com they sell OEM and after market parts. S.F. BMW OEM Radiator 385 The Partsbin OME with shiping 169 The radiators are both made by baher and are identical.

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  E46 325Ci - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By KPinNC - March 27 - 11:46 am

  Had the car almost one year, and no gripes so far, and very satisfied. Car does everything well as a BMW should. Car has everything but leather and prem. package. Leather not necessary (esp. for $1400), and prem package is too much. Sport package is a must, as well as Xenon headlights. Nav system could be better and falls short of dvd based systems, but for half the price its still as good, just not as fast. Have the occasional interior rattles and subwoofer rattle, but nothing significant. Overall, I would recommend this vehicle to anyone shopping around this price range.