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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  1st Time New Bimmer Owner - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Erik G. - September 8 - 5:20 am

  In US Army, and drove an 18 year old Bimmer for 2 yrs in Germany. Loved it so much and impressed I bought a new one. My first sports car! Got the jet black stock color. It hugs the road like nothing Ive ever driven. Goes effortlessly to 110mph, and its great to be able to do this on the autobahn and still be legal! Fits my 3 kids, 11, 9, and 6 in the back seat, though its tight. Trunk bigger than expected. I too have had trouble shifting smoothly with the "drive by wire" clutch it has. At first I thought it was me, but looking at other reviews I guess its just the technology. Too bad it cant keep you from stalling it too. Overall we love our Bimmer!

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  Best car I ever owned - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Heather - September 7 - 5:46 pm

  I have had this car for almost a year. I traded in my 2001 325i model for this when the re-design first came out (I owned a 318is prior to the 325i). This is the best 3-series model I have owned and I have yet to get bored with it. I still feel the same thrill as I had the day I drove it home. The aux input for my iPod was a very nice feature and the engine purrs quietly. I love the acceleration on this car. Car does run only on premium gas so beware of that. The only thing I wasnt impressed with was the audio system. Premium sound system was a better option, but I choose instead to buy a better system aftermarket.

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  BMW 03 Failure of Equipment - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Carolyn - September 7 - 9:17 am

  Tail light harness melted and not working. New transmission after 1000 miles. 4-window regulators replaced. Sunroof mechanism replaced. Radio dial does not work. Front tires ride noisy. No one can fit comfortably in the back seat. BMW will not help you with any parts that fail even though they are inferior products that should not have been used in this car. Parts are cheap and are meant to break to keep their parts and service dept. busy. My husband and I have owned 20 vehicle together and we have put more parts on this car then in all of our car combined. Its sad and never buy BMW, buy a Lexus!! or something more reliable . BMW does not care about fixing their problems.

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  14k Miles and TOTAL FAILURE - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By duff - September 7 - 2:46 am

  I like the car overall its my 3rd and so far no big problems until the 2007 version. At 14k miles car starts lurching and dies, total electronic failure?? Checked site to see if anyone else had the same incident I will post an update after my tow trip to the dealership

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  My fifth BMW - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By ecsail - September 6 - 7:10 am

  Yes, thats right. This is my fifth BMW. I buy these cars because they have excellent design inside and out, they are built well, and they are a lot of fun to drive. This car has been a little disappointing, however. Unlike every other BMW I have owned, this one has given me a little trouble. It cost me about $1100 so far. Hopefully,the problem is fixed. I have 121,000 miles on this car and not a rattle or vibration anywhere. Still rides and drives like new! I cant help it - I love these cars! This is the first one ever to give me a problem.

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  Artie, my fiery red beamer - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By " Artie Beamer " - September 5 - 10:59 am

  I just purchased my 1991 BMW 318is coupe. I was looking for a car to replace my 1994 Volvo 850 I loved my Volvo but it was literally falling apart. I wanted to purchase a Land Rover Discovery Series SUV, but read so many bad reviews on this vehicle. My son and I were looking at cars at my favorite car lot my son spotted the BMW at the back of the lot. It caught our eye. It was a one owner car in excellent condition one look and we were hooked. I made an offer and the car was mine. My son and I waxed Artie and scented him with air freshener. Everywhere we go people ask where did you get that car. It is definitely an eye capturer. My son says, arent you glad I made you give up the Volvo.

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  Put the Top Down - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By SilverlakeBeamer - September 4 - 10:00 am

  This one of the most fun cars to drive. It handles like a dream and really hugs the road. No noise problem with the top up and very comfortable with the top down. Low profile tires make for rough riding on city streets with potholes. Hazzard light switch on console becomes easy target for the dog. The dog now turns on the hazzard lights whenever he is in the car alone!

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  Interior design - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Shirley Lawver - September 4 - 10:00 am

  I love my BMW except for the completely uncomfortable front passenger seat and nearly unusable console. Additionally the seat belts are difficult to use and are positioned so that the belt sits across your neck and continues to tighten as you move. Except for the cup holders, I find no way to use the console compartments. The interior design will have to be significantly improved before I purchase anothe BMW 3 series coupe.

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  bobs toy - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By R. Shook - September 4 - 10:00 am

  mst looking car-holds the road on the road-convertible tops is flawless-191- 20 mpg-ride can be hard-back seat uncomfordable for full size adults- glove box too small-needs deeper storage bin between seats-fast and steady-corners well-be carefull pulling up to concrete parking strips as front end catches on concrete and pulls out (off) of front end and is expensive to fix-service at dealers excellent-will buy new on in 2004

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  0-60 in less than 7 secs- Way less! - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Dedi - September 4 - 10:00 am

  This is the most fun car I have ever owned - it is true about BMW drivers - you do drive more aggressively - and it is because you can. It holds the road and excellerates very fast - I never fear that I can pull out onto a road and get my speed up quickly - When taking sharp bends it holds the road as if it was on a track - and going down hill if you down shift it does not freewheel out of control - I never have to hit the brakes on each bend - It is easy to shift and the clutch is like butter - anyone could learn to drive in it -