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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  Happy but Sad - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By james lane - July 10 - 2:00 am

  My 1996 BMW 318i offers great looks and luxurious interior. It has excellent driving feautures such as handling, cruise control, high-tech equipment but at 75,000 miles my ABS went out on the car. BMW of Nashville repair department wanting 77 dollars an hour to guess at whats wrong with the ABS.

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  335i Rocks! - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Richard Song - July 9 - 2:04 am

  Bought my e92 335xi with a little bit over 40k miles on 2015. Currently almost two and half years, its been running like a champ. Drives and handles like a dream. Everything feels heavy yet steady and tight: the gas paddle, brake paddle, suspension, and the steering wheel. All these together make it a comfortable car and you a confident driver. Sometimes I went 90mph on highway without even noticing because it simply feels so sturdy. Although not designed for fuel efficiency, it returns 30mpg on the highway on usual basis. There are occasional repairs, as expected, but its worth every penny. Radiator gave up @51k mile. Carbon build up causing car hard to start @55k mile. Except from that, its been problem free.

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  Continually impressed - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Honda convert - July 8 - 10:00 pm

  Just got back from test driving a 330i with Perf & Sport pack and Steptronic. Incredible. This car is flat-out brilliant. I currently own a 99 323i - has been hands-down the best car Ive ever owned. Not sure if I should sell it because the experience has been truly stunning. After 3 years it just gets better and better (33K and it drives exactly like new). But the 330i is a special car that in my estimation offers the best blend of performance, luxury and quality of any sports sedan.

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  Still King of the Hill - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By William - July 8 - 4:56 am

  Just purchased this new 330i last week and have fewer than 400 miles on it. Tremendous engine and legendary BMW handling. Previously had a 2001 330Ci and a 2002 325iT. New 3-series is better, overall, than either of the previous cars. Only complaint is visibility is less in this car than in E46 models. Run flat tires are a bit stiff also. Ours has Sport Package; like the Sport seats and suspension. Goes around corners like its on a rail. Satellite radio and BMW assist are great features. Best feature is the feeling you get when pressing the accelerator. BMW claims 255 horsepower for this engine. It feels much stronger than that and yet gets about 30 mpg on the highway. Awesome.

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  Love the Car - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Tank - July 7 - 6:36 pm

  I did not think that paying the extra money for the BMW over the infinit, acura, lexus, etc would really be worth it. I was so very wrong, this car drives and rides so much better then anything I have ever owned. I had the chance to drive back to back the M35 2 weeks after I got my 335i (brand new rental) and wow, I loved the M35 until I owned the BMW. If you are considering any of those cars, you will not be disappointed in the 335i sedan. Impressed is an understatement.

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  By BMW330xi_@hotmail.com - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By 686860001 - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Basically, Ive had no problems what so ever with this vehicle. One thing, though, its not made to drag race. If you want a drag racer BMW, get the M3. This care is made for pure driving pleasure. I love just taking the 330xi out on a Sunday afternoon on quiet, curvy, valley roads, and hearing the engine as it goes through the RPMs, and feeling the car respond. The handling is just plain AMAZING on this car. I took a corner that said "10 MPH" going 30 MPH, no problems, I dindt even peel out. The car just stayed glued to the road. Extremely fun car, and pretty quick too.

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  the best mid-luxury sedan in the world - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By alex medge - July 5 - 10:00 am

  dont go for the sport sedan imitations (lexus is 300, audi a4, benz c320) - get the original and the best at the same time - get a 3 series

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  A+ - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By Zug - July 5 - 2:00 am

  This has been the best car Ive owned. No, it doesnt accelerate fast, but in urban/sub-urban driving who cares? I get 25/city and 38/highway (Yes thats true) off of 89 Octane. Use Mobil 1 15/50 year-round (yes, its worth the extra money) and have added a DRL module. Easy to work on.

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  Fun & Reliable - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By Ana - July 4 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun car to drive. It is responsive, reliable and appealing to the fashionable driver. It is surprisingly economical for its performance. Two downturns: I had more hitches than expected, such as burned bulbs etc. - nothing major, but certainly a time consuming pain not a spacious family car at all passengers in the back seat are sure to complain during a long drive. Overall, perfect for a single adventurer or young couple. Absolutely love it and will continue to be a loyal BMW buyer (previously owned a 7-series and a M3).

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  A 4 door Z3 - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By sports car driver - July 4 - 2:00 am

  This is a great handling family car. Feels much like the 1997 Z3 2.8 I owned. I also own an S2000, so I didnt feel the need for the more powerfull 3.0. As a commuter vehicle the 325i is comfortable, reliable and gets about 27 miles to the gallon on the highway. It has a cruising range of over 400 miles. While the basic car is a bargain, the options are pricey. With leather, premium package, zenon lights, winter package, and stereo upgrade the net was $32,700 after a 4+% discount which I had to shop for.This is a really good car, practical yet quite sporty and fun to drive.