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:

• 

  Good entry level BMW - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By tkb - August 6 - 2:00 am

  Good overall car, look great, beautiful interior. Save money on the Harmom/Kardon Systems its not worth it. The hesitant while the car is hot almost got me hit couple time.

• 

  Its amazing - but here are some issues. - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By no alias - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Sport package seats are very stiff and also extremely supportive. You wont want to take this on a 3+ hour trip, but its a blast getting to work each day! Also, remarkable in the snow with Blizzaks. The car is thought out very well, but the electric "glitches" can drive you nuts. Check engine light is aways on - but the performance exhaust and intake is probably my fault... Brake light indicator pops up from time to time, which I hear is a common issue. Everyone wants to race you from the stoplights - whats up with that!?! I have had only one repair in the past two years, and it was about $200.

• 

  Weak and sensually wanting - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By waveman - August 5 - 2:00 am

  With an automatic, stock tires and rims this Bimmer is the ultimate pig. My Honda Accord wagon is more fun. At 90,000 miles it creaks and groans like a reluctant old door. My girlfriend does look good in it though! Not up to my expectations of a BMW,

• 

  318is - A definite YES! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By catseye - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I am an autocrosser/Time Trialer who recently bought a 318is for street/event use. I LOVE IT!! It doesnt have the power of my wifes 325, but it is 200+ lbs. lighter, and feels more nimble and responsive to the touch. I think in most kinds of competitive events, the 318is will hold its own against most others. A real thrill to drive!!

• 

  High performance - 1993 BMW 3-Series
  By Wicked soundz - August 4 - 2:00 am

  very reliable top of the line car. I race with this car on the highway and i never lost yet. sweet pick up. my bmw is hook up and runin nice!!!!!

• 

  First and Last - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Sandman - August 3 - 2:23 pm

  This is my first and last BMW. I am very disappointed in this car. I have already had to replace the run-flat tires. When I took the car in for its maintenance service, I was told tires were a safety issue and lucky I havent had an accident yet. Around 15,000 miles, tires started making an awful droning noise. Leather already flaking and peeling in several areas. Other family members have leather in their cars and never an issue. Dealer would only fix the rear air console. All other areas considered "normal wear and tear" per the dealer. Have had to bring it in 3 times for computer adjustments. Steering column also had to be replaced.

• 

  Not So Great - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By JerseyBeamer - August 2 - 5:33 pm

  I ordered this car and waited a few months for it. When I finally got it, it began to fall apart immediately. The gas tank had air in it that a man at the gas station released for me in order to fill the tank more than halfway. The heat did not work at all. It was in for service 4 days after I got it, and had to have the radiator replaced. The cupholder broke the first time it was used. The car looks and drives beautifullly, but is not put together with the quality I expected from BMW.

• 

  First BMW - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By KenC - July 31 - 7:50 pm

  I have wanted a BMW my entire adult life and Im thrilled to finally be an owner. Great performance and awesome styling.

• 

  bmwci - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Jon - July 30 - 9:56 am

  great design & style. Unbelievable drive from this car. Exterior is beautiful and always a head turner.

• 

  near perfect, but not quite - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By 328 w/ SP, PP, Xe,CD - July 30 - 2:00 am

  Certified inspection mustve been forgotten, is in dealership for the third time getting worked on. Nothing major - speaker, seatbelt noise, alignment, rain-sensor, two-freak- electrical-events, some suspension squeaks, missing rear-view mirror trim. Other than all than, it is truly an incredible car. 5-speed and Sports Package are a must! Have driven w/o and not worth the dough. But with them the car is simply an extension of you as you fly on down the road.