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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  Key Fob Easy on Your Pocket - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By caddis - December 2 - 6:50 am

  When BMW came out with start button and keyfob-slot in 2006 3 series I questioned the rationale. Now I know one reason. The nagging stab of a car key in my back pocket has been replaced with a small light weight key fob. Its the small things in life that give me the most pleasure. If my old compact sedan is the "Wild Mouse", driving a BMW 3 is best compared to riding an inverted steel roller coaster. Excellent investment.

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  The best of both worlds - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By ronners - November 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is really so well thought out and put together that it invariably flatters you as a driver. Handling is excellent, and safety features have been a life saver for me (I recently had to avoid a car in front of me on a freeway who locked up his wheels at 75mph+). You can just hope you never need to find out how good DSC actually is! Aside from that, the car is a joy to drive. Unlike the majority of cars (and dreadful SUVs/trucks) this car goes where you point it.

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  best car in class - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By jasper - November 28 - 10:00 am

  The car is best in its class..This is my third BMW and the last two were E36 M3s..This car is as fast as a stock E36 M3...The build quality gets better and better..I have had no problems with my sedan and the dealer is fantastic..If, you want more power just upgrade with dinan products..It does not void the manufacture warr and the dealer can do the install.. Dont skip the sports package...Worth evey penny....... Get the 18" wheel option for 900 bucks its a steal!

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  Dinan Tuned 335i Convertible. - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Joshua - November 26 - 4:41 am

  I love my red Dinan Tuned twin turbo convertible! I am the 2nd owner and bought a well maintained 335i that was maintained very well under extended warranty by the first owner. My 335i has all the factory options, plus the aftermarket upgrades like 19" BBS rims, Dinan Stage 2 engine tune and M sport package which I love. If you research the N54 engine (07-10 335i models) - youd learn that certain expensive components on most of these BMWs fail by 80k miles, so if you buy a 335i that hasnt had these faulty parts replaced, youll spend thousands of $$ to replace each item. That includes a fuel pump, fuel injectors, water pump and twin turbos. I flew in one way to LA to pick up my BMW after evaluating Carfax report and service records that the previous owner provided and verifying that BMW dealership replaced all important parts including HPFP, all fuel injectors, both turbos, water pump, thermostat, oil filter housing gasket, oil pan gasket, intake manifold gasket, oil cooler gasket, spark plugs, front control arm bushings, front tie rod assembly and other misc. items under the extended warranty (~$18,000) and there havent been any problems for the last 10K miles. Besides oil changes (I use Amsoil on all my BMWs), for the past 10 months I only had to replace valve cover gaskets. The previous owner replaced the run-flats with Michelin Super Sports - a great choice. It will be good to have a flat-repair kit and tire pump, which I havent used yet. I recently switched to Toyo Proxes T1 Sport and like them even more than Michelins. As other owners of 335is have said - either buy a well maintained 335i that had the issues above addressed (with verifiable service records) or get an extended warranty - otherwise you will spend $5-7K a year to maintain this beautiful and fun ultimate driving machine. I highly recommend you request a Carfax report and verify service records before buying your BMW, and if the seller cannot afford to spend $30 on Carfax report and has no maintenance records - you are probably buying a money pit. Dont buy salvage BMWs either - most have odometer rolled back and are in poor mechanical shape. Good luck!

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  Everything I Expected and More! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Jon Matson - November 23 - 2:00 am

  I have always driven used cars, reliable Toyotas and the like, and have never splurged on a nice car. Wow! I am so glad I finally broke out of that mentality. This car is worth every cent I paid for it. It is amazing, and with the top down on a sunny California afternoon, it is heaven. The handling, the look, the speed, everything is so much more than I have ever enjoyed in a car. This car makes driving in traffic actually bearable, and even fun. I would do it again in a second.

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  Wind Noise - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Kacie - November 19 - 8:06 pm

  First time BMW owner. Great drivetrain. 5 speed automatic strong. Solid steering and suspension. Very good gas mileage, getting 22 MPG in city driving. Standard sterio is very good. Not sure the Harmon Kardon is worth the extra $. Only complaint is the wind noise. Telescopic steering wheel a nice plus for those with long legs.

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  330Ci/Silver/18"/AUTO/Sports/Nav - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By MyBimmer - November 18 - 10:00 am

  My review: Get the Nav system. Leatherette is as good as leather but cheaper with less maintence. Get the sunroof. The Septronic AUTO is fun. Wish I had upgraded the xenons. The upgrade from 325 to 330 is expensive, but theres a noticable power difference (esp. with the AUTO). The 330Ci: perfect car for a single guy. Surprisingly roomy for 4 adults, rear seats fold down for two full golf sets or luggage, perfect fun for road trips (esp with the Nav). My advice, spend the extra dough and get the Bimmer over the japanese cars. Theres just that extra pinache about driving up in Bimmer that you do not get in japanese cars.

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  Dream come true - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Rossini Botev - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Since I drove my neighbers BMW 2002 ti in 1981, my dream was to own one. Last year I picked my 330i Bimmer from Munich and since then " I cant stop loving you ". The sport package is worth every penny ! In order to feel the thrill one should drive this beauty on a twisted moutain road because on the autoban there is no diference between 60 and 130 mph - the car and my wife were sleeping very comfortably.

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  awesome - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By jrr - November 13 - 10:00 am

  perfect and flawless in all ways

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  335i Coupe on the Autobahn - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By AutobahnNut - November 8 - 12:26 am

  We purchased our US Spec 335i coupe with all available options. I have had it on the autobahn and tested the speed limiter, which is in fact at 155mph. I can run a Porsche 911, at least until they hit the 165 mph mark and keep going (what limiter?), otherwise we would spank the entry level 911. This car is faster than the advertised 0-60 in 5.3. My guess is more like 4.5. I dread the day we take it to the states, but I will save my money for speeding tickets starting now, I guess. This is the most fantastic car I have ever driven! The new upcoming M3 (maybe M5) is next for us!