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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  DO NOT BUY BMW - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By NEVERMORE - March 10 - 2:00 am

  Mistakenly picked 330i instead Volvo S60 T5. Paid $6500 extra for lack of quality, performance and RELIABILITY. Had it serviced 5 times, including towed for mechanical failure. The Volvo S70T5 never gave me ANY problems. Volvo service was never great but never treated me like bastard son the 3Series customer is viewed there. I thought to be buying exclusivity but see myself surrounded by hundreds in the hood. The bad quality wasnt paired by 1/3 of domestics I had for 15 years. Ill sell it a.s.a.p and move back to the beutiful, reliable, powerful and high quality Volvo S60T5.

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  Hope you have money to throw away - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Randy - March 8 - 6:30 am

  Bought my wife a 335i convertible after she was rear ended totaling her Honda S2000. she drove the care 3 months and the water pump had to be replaced. then the rear wheel bearings had to be replaced. Then the Turbos went out. this car has been sitting in the shop more than it has been driven. What a piece of junk.

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  Great car - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By KB - February 28 - 10:00 am

  The 330Ci is a great mix of handling, speed and comfort.

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  Sports car in sedan clothing - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Catalin - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 330i Performance Package a month ago. Very happy. Performance is fantastic and the interior is great

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  Thats it, BMW forever - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By newbmwowner - February 28 - 10:00 am

  This is the first BMW that I have ever owned and I am sold for life. I have owned luxury vehicles (Mercedes and Jaguar) as well as a sports car (Honda S2000) and the BMW 325xi is the best of both worlds. I test drove the G35, A4, and X-type but none compared to 325xi. Also, I initially went to buy a 330xi but after driving both vehicles decided that the additional horsepower was not worth the additional cost. I have owned the 325xi for 3 months now and I am completely happy with my purchase.

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  THE best car - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Amandep Singh - February 28 - 10:00 am

  the car is the best better than all the rest BMW gots the speed not like toyota or honda

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  Fun to drive - expected more reliability - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Obelix25860 - February 28 - 10:00 am

  * After 1 week I had to "sputter" to the dealership - blown spark coil in cylinder (it actually has 1 per cylinder). * At month 3 a panel lit up like a xmas tree (called service they said come in 1 week) one hour later the car died and I was towed into the Dealership. * From day 0 one keyfob didnt work and the replacement still hasnt arrived

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  Great to drive. Short on quality. - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By woohoo325 - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Clutch assembly was defective from the factory and transmission had to be torn down at 3200 miles. I wonder if the defective part already caused unneccessary wear-and-tear.

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  Its about time BMW makes standout - 2016 BMW 3-Series
  By Kyle T - February 25 - 1:40 am

  Definitely its the best bang for your buck as performance vehicle as of today market. I have test drove numerous of cars, RC F, RC350, C450AMG, GS 350, Q50S hybrid, Cayman S & GTS, then finally settle for 340i. Two years ago I owned a 335I and told myself I m not going back to BMW again after I returned it. Therefore I test drove so many cars but not BMW, but then when I looked at BMW again to see if they have any new, thats when I discovered 340i, so I took my wife to the dealership to test drive it, we felt in love with the car immediately. 340i has so much torque from low rpm which my wife loves it compare to her IS350. 340i out performed IS350 easily, my wife is a big fan of Lexus but now she is driving the BMW daily now, I get to drive it on the weekend because we go everywhere together, you get the picture right, the car is mine but she gets to drive it, and i m stuck with the IS350 for the week. Anyway love the car and definitely would own it after 2-3 Gen come out

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  BMW 335 Conv is second to none - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Joe - February 22 - 4:36 am

  Early christmas present!! Dealer and car came through and its a blast driving around this piece of art. The engine, the automatic; everything works 100%. Amazed by BMWs ability to make a high performance car packed into this sculpture of a car. Am a manual kind of guy but having tried the pedal shifting automatic had to go with it. Lightning fast!!