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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  Good Car, Bad Service - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By the tester - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Okay, the car is good (I have the sports package and premium). I love driving it. It isnt the best luxury/sports car I have owned, but its not bad. Heres the bad: the dealership (Beverly Hills BMW) sucks. Bad sales team, so-so service, no loaners. BMW needs a national loaner policy (each dealer loans courtesy cars only if you purchased at that dealership--some dont even have loaners). I mean, you spend 50k on a car, the least you should get is a courtesy car when you take it in to service (I have had to take the car in three times so far and only 6000 miles). Can anyone say Lexus?

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  be smarter than the GPS! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Chuck Hinnant - March 30 - 2:00 am

  The GPS needs updated DVD muchly. 18" wheels a must. Lines of entire auto follow the front end beautifully.Great brakes,too much brake dust up front. Dont drive the thing if you are susceptable to spoiling yourself with fun.

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  Love my BMW - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Tim Spann - March 28 - 10:00 am

  the greatest car I have ever driven

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  Oh What Fun, It is to drive! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By fvvmd - March 28 - 10:00 am

  WOW!!! Why did I wait so long!

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  My Sixth and Best BMW - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Derek Simpkins - March 26 - 4:00 pm

  The new 330i is a fabulous machine, a huge leap ahead from the previous E46 series in every way. Build quality and interior ergonomics are vastly improved.Handling and performance are exhilarating. Sport package is a must have option. The new steptronic is light years ahead of the previous generation - much faster shifting and more intuitive in sport mode or manual. Tested the 6spd manual; its not as slick as a Honda manual. This car is so much fun to drive, I look for excuses to drive it.Very hard to stay close to any legal speed limits; this is a car that loves to run fast,so be warned. You could pay $10-$20k more for a different car and not have as much fun as in the 330i.

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  The ultimate driving machine - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By kg - March 24 - 2:00 am

  An absolute joy to drive. The car feels very solid and composed and corners with minimal body lean. The engine is silky smooth and the brakes are excellent. Even with a moonroof, theres still plenty of headroom inside. On average, I get about 24 mpg. For about $1,400, the leather seats are a must-have option-- the standard leatherette/vinyl seats look and feel cheap. I was debating between getting the BMW or the Infiniti G35, but I just couldnt stomach the cheap- looking interior and the odd-looking exterior of the G35. Besides, BMW offers free scheduled maintenance for first 4 yrs/50,000 miles.

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  bmw 4 life !!! - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By bimmerdriver - March 22 - 10:00 am

  we have owned this 3series since 2000. it has been a great car. the ride is comfortable and the cabin noise is very minimal. we have researched and test driven all the other entry luxury cars (lexus is300, mercedes c-class, and others) and decided on the 3series. and if we had to do it all over again, we would still make the same choice.

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  Fast and Fun to drive - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Mike - March 22 - 9:46 am

  Was looking to trade in my 2003 BMW 525i. Looked at and test drove the BMW M3, 745i, 550i, Acura RL, Infiniti M35/45, Lexus GS450, and Audi S4. I saw the 2007 335i on the lot, test drove it and fell in love. Ended up purchasing a 6 speed manual, metallic space gray with Coral/Black leather interior.

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  Kims BMW - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Kjohn019 - March 19 - 6:10 am

  I loved this car the minute I saw it. Once I drove it, I knew I would purchase it. I have always loved BMWs and I now own three of them. You can not beat the power, dependability, luxury, style, handling, and the way it makes you feel when you are in the cockpit. It is a beautiful car, and I will never get rid of it. I still own my 1989 BMW and that was purchased new.

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  PERSONALY TOOK IT UP TO 148MPH. GREAT !! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By BROKERN1 - March 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car last april for my wife as she graduated with honors. It is electric red and natural brown and every possible option in it. What a head turner. So far I have almost 4,000 miles on it w/out any problem except one !!! I cant stay away from this car. Every time I need to go somewhere I constantly ask my wife to give me the keys to the bimmer. It is so much fun to drive. I personally have a Lexus GS430 and yes I do agree that I have much more power but who needs it - - if it comes w/out handling. This car has been personally engineered for anybody who is a control freak at speeds about 130 miles per hour. I have driven it at 148 mph - nic