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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  Awesome - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Gary - December 10 - 10:13 am

  Ive only had the car for a week but I am already in love! I went from a Mercedes to this absolute rocket. Looks, performance, it has it all. The total experience is what one would expect from buying a luxury sports sedan from Germany. I will never go back to Mercedes.

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  The Perfect Blend - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By szbmw330i - December 9 - 10:00 am

  Absolute luxury when you are cruising the highways, a 4 door sports car when you hit the windy mountain roads.The transmission is a work of art. The car has amazing composure.The communication between myself, the car , and the road was so in sync. I have been driving assorted audis for the past 15 years. All I can say is, I just didnt get it. The BMW is the ultimate driving machine. There is not a better entry level sport luxury. If you wanted what this car has to offer, in luxury,performance,features,safety,relia bility...you would be spending $10,000- $15,000 more. Join me in the experience!

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  Fun - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By L.Pavlecich - December 7 - 10:26 pm

  A fun car to drive. I love the solid feel and its handling on the curves. It has great power once it gets going but the initial acceleration is a bit disappointing, maybe because of the all wheel drive. All in all a great vehicle.

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  The ultimate driving machine - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By change7550 - December 4 - 10:00 am

  If you are looking for a "drivers car:" look no further. There may be other cars (Lexus IS300, Infinity G35, etc) that offer more equipment at a lower price, but they do not come near to the level of excitment and fun that this car (325i) has to offer. The look of the car is simple and elegant inside and out. The engine is smooth and powerful and the handling, oh, the handling is nimble and agile. The 3 also gets credits for offering all the safty features as standard equipment.

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  In a word .... amazing - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By DRHarris - November 30 - 10:00 am

  Really struggled having to turn in my leased 01 Saab 9-3 convertible. I tried Saab 9-3 aero (very nice improvements, but no sport mode so low torque compared to 01), and Audi (not a drivers car). Im now a BMW convert. Just took delivery of my loaded 04 330CiC with SMG and it is incredibly responsive, looks fantastic inside and out, and very quick.

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  Do Not Buy 3.30CI - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Karakas - November 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 3.30CI on the 31st of Jan 2004. It has only 6500 miles on it and the car has been to service 5 (FIVE) times. The passenger door failed first, then the mirrors with interior light. The engine has serious problems too. Especially in the mornings, I can feel the wobbling coming from the engine. I have checked the positive feedbacks but they dont seem right. One of the review says 3.30 has 30-31 MPG, thats IMPOSSIBLE. My BMWs VIN# is WBABD53404PL11978 and I am serious do NOT buy this car because even the service guys dont have an explanation for the problem. My car cost me 45K 3.30CI with all the options. I can send you pics...

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  DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY FOR THIS CRAP - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Enver - November 30 - 10:00 am

  The 3.30CI has a great body style but it is a total dissapointment. It was the first month that the passenger door was broken. The alternator failed at 7500 miles. The engine is shaking in the mornings and it is obvious that there is something wrong, where the service people totally disagree. I have heard that there is a software problem of the engine. Be aware that the engine problem is not solved by the BMW engineers. Some of the 10 or 9 point rating reviews are not realistic. I agree that you can not get 30-31 MPG with 3000cc car and there is no model like 3.35CI. Be aware the car...

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  06 330 is the Best 3 ever!!!!!1 - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By ab - November 28 - 12:03 am

  Ever since I bought my car last month, it has been excellent. I have owned a 03 300m, 03 325i, and 04 TL. The new 330i is by far the best car I have driven!!!! I have the premium, cold, and sport packages (sport package worth the money). For car lovers, get the manual, it is more enjoyable than the automatic. The interior and exterior designs are great. For the older generation, it might be a problem, but for me (27) it is excellent. It is about time BMW updated their look to target the younger generation! I give the 06 330 3 thumbs up!!! (If I only had an extra one).

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  Great Automobile! - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By brott - November 21 - 2:00 am

  Loads of fun.....a great car overall!

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  The Best Driving Sport Sedan - Period - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Bryan W - November 17 - 3:36 pm

  I have owned many, and most recently test drove them all - G35, M35, 08 C- Class, TL, Audi A4 (2.0 & 3.2), A3 (3.2), Passat, A6, 530i (2005). Nothing even comes close to the feel of the BMW. If driving enjoyment is your top priority, this is your only choice (save the 5 series, but youll spend a lot more). All are excellent cars, but the 335i has something extra that you have to drive to experience. No probs for me with the run flat tires