BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.56/5 Average
3,778 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 3541 through 3550 of 3,778.00
  • I love my BMW! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
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    I love my BMW! I would recommend this car to anyone who loves to drive :-) Its great- my next car will for sure be a BMW!

  • 2004 3 Series BMW Conv- True Euro Luxury - 2004 BMW 3-Series
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    The current BMW 3 Series has the BEST looking INTERIOR of ANY of the current BMW series! Why? Because it has been "Banglelized" (or upgraded to a newer?! design- what an oxymoron!") yet!! All of the new upgraded interiors on the new 5 and 7 series look cheap with less leather and wood than the old designs they replace. Sure BMW claims they are trying to reach a new (larger) audience but their competitors use LOTS of wood and leather in their interior designs. Some may say that the wood and leather steering wheels found on lots of luxury cars are the "vinyl top" of the 21 century BUT that is what luxury customers WANT! Not a homogenized WORLD design!!

  • ABSOLUTELY THRILLED!!! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Ive owned my 06 330i (White with Beige interior, premium package with extras) for approximately 1 week and I absolutely love it! Quality, quality, quality... that is the best way I can describe the 330i. I cant believe it took me so long to pay attention to the Bimmers. My family thinks Im nuts because all I talk about is my 330i and all of its features. Wow!!!!

  • Very impressive - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I just traded in my 97 328iC and 93 Integra (summer and winter cars) for a 325xi. With the huge moonroof open its practically a convertible and with the AWD rainy and snowy days wont be so bad now. Especially when you consider reliability, it easily beat out the Audi A4 Quattro and Mercedes C240 4MATIC and any SUV. All comparisons aside, I love this car for what it is. I thought Id miss the convertible - no way (even if its 70F today). My 120mi/day commute will now be a near- pleasure. If youve got $35K to spend this is the only car to consider.

  • THE BMW - 2003 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    well the bmw is much better then my other bmw which was a 2000 roadster. i like this model much better

  • First time BMW Owner - 2004 BMW 3-Series
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    According to the automotive press, this car is the standard for performance sedans and I would have to agree. The car drives like its on rails and there is constant power throughout the pedel. The leatherette is good enough that I dont even tell people that its fake. I like the smooth shifts and feedback from the engine. This is a true drivers care.

  • Still Fun - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I love my BMW, but I too experienced the aux. fan failure two months into ownership. In my instance, I was left stranded in 95+ heat with two very young children. BMW Roadside Assistance took over two hours to arrive and sent a hook! I refused and one hour later a flatbed finally arrived. The dealership provided a 5 series loaner for almost six weeks...until they finally had aux. fans that worked. Since that time(18 months) the car has never missed a beat and is a wonderful car to drive. It is not "just another car."

  • A true "Driving Machine" - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This is my second 325 in the last 4 years and this is quite the improvement over my 2003 325xi! I didnt think that was possible! The only thing I have a problem with at times is that the voice activation doesnt always pick up my commands on the first try, And the iDrive is a bit slow to respond at times as well. Overall, this car has great acceleration from a dead stop and lots of power to spare while cruising down the highway. It takes a 35 MPH exit ramp at 60 MPH with a squeal in the tires. Handling and cornering are perfect. MPG with my car is 19 mpg/city and 30 mpg/hwy (a bit worse when I get aggressive with the gas). It is a beautiful vehicle and is a true "Driving Machine"!

  • Fun First Sport Coupe - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Bought this car about a year ago. It is the first and only BMW Ive ever owned. It is my favorite car of all that Ive owned. With the top down on a sunny day, zinging through the twists and turns of an undulating country road, this car is a ton of fun. My first thought on a beautiful day when I am free from obligations is "...Go for a drive..."! The 2.5 liter in-line six is smooth and responsive. With just 184 hp and similar number torque, it wont win a drag race with a Mustang, but it is surprisingly peppy. Id estimate 0-60 comes in around 7 seconds, which is comparable to my 2011 Fusion Sport AWD (which has 263 hp). But the miles per gallon is much better. Im seeing around 28-30 highway, and 21-23 city. This car also just looks great. It cannot be considered practical, seeing the owners manual strongly suggests using premium gas, and it only carries four people (and their handbags) with just a modicum of back-seat comfort. But who ever buys a convertible with practicality as their first consideration? This is one fun, reliable, and pretty car. I cant recommend it highly enough to the right buyer. This one has definitely made me a BMW fan!

  • 325Ci Sport/Premium Package - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I purchased my 325 coupe in December 2000. I presently have 32,000 miles on it. The only problem I have had is with the window molding on the interior. I have heard that this has been a problem with almost every coupe. The dealer fixed it with no problem at all. The dealership also changed my brake pads for FREE. They said that they were not up to specs. This is by far the best handling car that I have ever driven. The sport package is a must. It gives you a tighter suspension and it hardly compromises the quality of the ride.

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