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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  A totally impressive machine - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By L8rnr - December 14 - 12:00 am

  I have had this car for about 3 weeks. I recently turned in an 03 Benz E500 after a 4 year relationship. Shopping for a new Benz, I decided to finally drive the other German sedans. Well I have to say, the fun factor pins this car off the scale. After 5 minutes I was sold. No contest in driveability and ride dynamics. The small BMW gives up a modest amount of power and torque to the Benz, but more than makes up for that in driveability. I find myself looking for an excuse to drive! Never felt that way in the Benz. I could have gone for the 335, but the 328 was plenty for me, in addition to getting a bit more mileage and probably saving me some tickets.

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  Very Disappointed in this car - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By mikmat - December 13 - 10:00 am

  This car has had too many problems and BMW service have not done a good job at addressing them. I am tired of hearing that they cannot duplicate the problem. At about 4K miles the rear differential had to be replaced (with a rebuilt one). Car stalls at idle. One dealer replaced the ignition coil as a fix, but problem occurred within 30 minutes after the fix. Another dealers claimed that there was no problem, but finally admitted that it was an engine software problem for which a fix does not yet exisit. Shifting into 1st gear is hard at times. Speakers rattle. There is excess wind noise at hwy speeds. window regulator had to be replaced. A disappointment.

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  One Bad Ass Car - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By jennifer - December 10 - 2:00 am

  This car is a great improvement on the 1998 328i model. The overall handling is incredible.

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  "The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By C1234567 - December 10 - 2:00 am

  Overall a Great Car. Lots of power, smooth transmission. Exterior is good looking. Interior is not as nice as a Mercedes but it is still very nice. Older people may not like the loud yet pleasent pur the car gives or the bumpy ride if you get the sports package. Lots of excitement. You can do things in this car with more reliability than most cars(i.e turning, handling). Fuel economy (miles per gallon) is standard in comparison with like cars, but the car is so fun to drive that you feel inclined to drive it really hard and end up burning more gas than the stated miles per gallon.

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  Good Buy? - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By J.Schumacher - December 7 - 2:30 pm

  I have owned this vehicle almost one year now and I really do like it. My biggest concern revolves around, when does technology outpace the needs of the average driver. Building a car that requires the buyer to only frequent BMW for service is smart on their part but when does that backfire ? That being said, the car has been problem free and is still the best handling car Ive ever owned. To do it all over again... maybe Audi A4 next time. After an exhaustive search for a new vehicle it was neck and neck with the BMW.

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  The Best Yet.... - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Kevinincharlotte - December 7 - 10:00 am

  My third BMW in five years is definitely the best. I had a 99 Z3 2.8 and a 2000 528 previously. I just traded an S-Type 4.0 on the 330cic and its good to be back to BMW. The handling and performance are the best in class. I love the subtle 04 changes to the front end. The six-speed is a blast to drive. Despite only small changes to the car in six years, it still turns heads. Im averaging close to 25 mpg with a 50/ 50 split of in-town and highway driving, which I think is pretty good considering the performance of the car.

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  Good lookin - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By Chris Campbell - December 6 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun car! It makes people turn their heads. I just recently put new BMW factory wheels on mine to make it look newer. This car has great handling. It is very reliable and I have had no major problems. Overall it is a cool car. Electronics need some work. The car is weak when the air conditioner is on and when its cold.

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  My 16th birthday present - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By JChris - December 5 - 2:00 am

  Everyone at my school loves my car. I got it from my mom after she drove it for 2 years. No problems since our ownership. This car is fun and turns lots of heads. Great gas mileage! Still looks and feels new!

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned... - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By MrBeachguy - December 5 - 2:00 am

  All the BMW hype about the 3-series, ITS TRUE. This is one awesome ride combining sedan quality comfort with about as sporty as it gets handling. Go for the 330 vs. 325 .. its worth the extra money! See you on a curvy road somewhere!

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  Wow - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Macgyver - December 5 - 2:00 am

  Performance for all seasons. This is tops when it comes to entry level sport sedans. The all wheel drive on this car is absolutly perfect for the snow and ice in the northeast and the power and responsiveness put the audi a4 1.8t and the ugly ford-styled x-type to shame.