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 3701 through 3710 of 3,778.00
  • Excellent Bimmer - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I have had my BMW just a year. I bought it fully loaded at a great deal. I had a BMW previously, and this is the best yet. I get so many compliments on the car, the Nav system is great, and so far the reliability is better than any car I have had. I had some issues when I first bought it because being just off the lot it took longer than normal to get a few things resolved but other than that I wouldnt drive anything other than a BMW. Next year Im looking at the 645.

  • Worth every penny - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The car is so perfectly balanced that it almost drives itself...none of that float, drift, or twitchiness that other vehicles exhibit. The cars power is plentiful while deceptive due to its smoothness. The car is perfectly at home twisting through the N. GA mountain roads, passing other vehicles on the hwy, or cruising leisurely. The car is relatively quiet and it is possible to carry on a normal conversation even at 65MPH with the top down. The car is a real looker too. I hear "beautiful car!" all of the time. I tend to buy cars that are great driving cars - I will buy for performance and ride over looks - this one has all three.

  • 2004 330Cic ZHP - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Awesome, Awesome, Awesome is the best way to describe this car. I recently purchased mine 6-speed with the Performance Package (M Kit) in Dark Gray with Black interior. I have not seen another one like it on the road (only 5 in California when purchased).

  • What a Car !!! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I previously owned a VW Passat GLX which I loved. The 2003 I test drove was improved but than I test drove the BMW(it is fully loaded). Where the Passat was great the BMW was a whole new world. I bought a factory demo with 10,000 miles and for only a $1,000 price difference. The handling is extreme and car is solid and quiet. Every drive is a new experience.

  • 330i nice ss but needs some improving on - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Pros: Great handling takes curves with ease. I was afraid of pushing the vehicle to hard in turns but somehow it begs to be driven harder. Good gas mileage on highway (32 mpg around 65mph)Cons: Cheap interior plastic, going over bumps I can hear plastic rattling as it just doesnt fit right. The engine has a bit too much growl inside the cabin. I owned an IS300 prior to this and Lexus engine is so much more subdued even when pushed. The interior on the IS was more refined simply because the cabin is quiet and you cant hear the plastic when going over bumps. Harmon Kardon needs improvement. My IS with Nackamichi was much better. Overall: Truly a SPORTS car with little luxury conveniences

  • Very Cool Car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I have owned the car for about 2 months now and have no regrets about stretching my wallet for this car. To paraphrase Jack Nicholson, this car makes me want to be a better driver. I chose the car after driving the TL and G35, and had a hard time justifying the higher price until the 06 version, which appears to be a better value IF one does not desire all the creature comforts. A minimalist approach works best if you are on a budget because most of the safety features and the phenomenal handling are standard on this car. The fuel efficiency is impressive for a vehicle of this class and only gets better at higher speeds. I find the sport suspension unnecessary and like the standard wheels.

  • Awesome - 2006 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    We purchased this vehicle two months ago and have already put 3,000 miles on it. I love the way it handles and the acceleration when passing someone on the highway. The trunk space is deceptive. We took a family of five with luggage on a Spring Break trip and had enough room.

  • My BMW 330xi - 2003 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This is a great car in general. It is a blast to drive, and it screams quality. The performance is adequate although it could use a more powerful engine. My major concern is BMWs neglect of its interior. There is no room in the back seat for anyone over 55 or over 150 pounds... and the options leave alot to be desired.

  • BEST CAR ON THE ROAD! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought this car a few days ago. I have already put 300+ miles on it. It is AWESOME! I love everything about it. It is fast and beautiful. It has every toy and safety feture on it you can imagine. The convertable top is perfect and very well designed.

  • Best car in its class - 2007 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I waited 3 months to get this car, but it was the best decision that I ever made. This car is the best. The power it has shocks you. The luxury is amazing, the look of the exterior is stunning... just an amaazin car. Only one con... the price is a little too high for a 3 series, but I love it and its worth every cent.

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