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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  3 Strikes youre out!! - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By click click click - December 4 - 8:54 pm

  I bought my 2009 335xi in August after driving my C70 Volvo into the ground with 173k on it. The volvo was a sled compared to this beauty. This car is not problem free! I have had the car in four times for warranty and Im still not happy. First check engine light " miss fire " second time bad high pressure fuel pump, third time, mechanical fuel pump. Turn on the intermittent wiper and listen to the relay click under the dash. Dealer says thats normal. Then the seat belt arm shorted out. So they replaced that. I just bought 4 Toyota Yaris for my delivery fleet and they are quieter than this BMW. Dealer said get use to the noises I said are you kidding me !!

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  BEST CAR - 1993 BMW 3-Series
  By R clark - December 4 - 10:40 am

  Car is approaching 250000 miles. I love the car little on the pricey side for repairs but I just cant get rid of the car still looks good and performs well.

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  Power performance & mileage in a Bimmer - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Nyurkt - December 4 - 10:20 am

  We Absolutely LOVE this vehicle awesome power, mileage & fuel economy even if driven hard love the exhaust note drives handles feels and sounds great. This is a true drivers car second Bimmer for the family and Im sure many more to come. Traded in our Accord Ex-V6 great car but the mileage was not up to par for HONDA, now we get awesome performance & braking as well as excellent fuel economy.

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  Would have been great, but... - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By ChiefBigTalker - December 1 - 7:39 pm

  This is nearly a great car. Fast. Handles well. Looks great. Sounds great. The retracting top is a thing of beauty. But it isnt as reliable as my old Alfa Romeo. Run flat tires are fragile Ive had to replace four of them in two years. I can deal with the somewhat harsh ride, but the huge expense and inconvenience has taught me never to buy another car with run flats. The fuel injection system broke down, taking the car out of commission for several days. Seats rattle. The cable connecting the ipod to the sound system is poor, and despite replacement still cuts out a channel from time to time. iDrive isnt that bad lose the run flats, make it reliable, and it would be great.

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  Balance - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By BK2007 - December 1 - 3:46 pm

  I needed a car that had everything. Speed, agility, utility, luxury. Its got it all. The engine has a great sound and it is very calm and quiet at road speed. It is everything Ive wanted in a car. BMW has a customer for life as long as they keep making cars like this.

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  2003 BMW 330Ci - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Tom Waite - December 1 - 2:59 pm

  I have owned this 2003 330Ci since new. Used the BMW Euro Delivery program. Car has been very reliable. Issues? Sunroof, ignition coils replaced under warranty. Otherwise nothing, but I am a fairly conservative driver, and dont drive it hard other than the 600 miles on the autobahn at 90-120 mph when car was new. I routinely obtain 27-30 mpg (5 speed manual, 80% freeway driving with a light foot). Great car and I likely will buy another soon.

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  Fun to drive - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Oldgoat912 - November 30 - 4:55 pm

  Replacement for 1998 540i six speed. Although smaller my 335i is faster and more nimble. GREAT FUN to drive and comfortable for an old man (66!). My only problem is the tire ware. I dont spin out at every stop sign but had to replace the rear tires at 13,300 miles. I also think it would take one hell of a driver to accelerate faster with the six speed than with the auto trans. I love the shift paddles, the stereo and blue tooth.

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  The best yet - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Lacy - November 28 - 11:30 am

  After owning 3 3-series I thought of changing. I test drove the Lexus IS350, Audi A4 and Infiniti G35. The Lexus is faster than the BMW, but none of them compared to the total driving experience of a bimmer. I purchased a 330i and this is the best 3 series yet. Performance, handling and braking are superb. The car is loaded with safety features and I am getting a suprisingly 30+ mpg on the highway.

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  Fun car... - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By mrjohnnycat - November 28 - 10:00 am

  The car handles unbelievable, power is fantastic. This car is going to be hard to improve on.

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  Terrific all-around car - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Brians01 - November 28 - 10:00 am

  My 330Ci was purchased BMW Certified w/16,000 miles and it flawless shape. Dealer service is superb and is always "no questions asked" WRT my requests. The car is very quick, handles well (sport package), looks very sharp, and has numerous luxury features. The car has few faults. The steering wheel positioning (even w/tilt/telescope) takes some getting used to. Body roll is slightly excessive, given the sport suspension. I have owned an Audi TT and Lexus IS300 and I can say w/certainty that this car is a significant step above both of these cars, dealer service included.