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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  Awesome - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Bob - August 14 - 11:16 pm

  I picked up my 2009 335i xDrive a week ago and this car is amazing. I look forward to going to work in the morning to drive it. It seems to eat up the road and the 18" run flats with the sport package are unmatched. The growl the car make when you turn it on and step on the gas is worth the price alone. The stereo is incredible, iDrive is easy to use as well as the navigation. I am so glad I stopped in the dealership on the way to check on my Audi A5 that was on order. I drove this car and made the deal that night and drove down the street to cancel the Audi. I have had Acuras, Infinitis and driven my dads Cayman S; this car blows them away. I will never buy anything but a BMW again.

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  New Car Impressions - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Joshua7 - August 14 - 1:58 pm

  This is my first BMW. Thought I wanted to own one to see how I liked being a Bimmer owner. Its a nice ride but is TOO expensive for what you get. Not much value for the money. I also hear the whining noise coming from the engine or transmission. Sounds like the whining sound from a turbine, but the car does not have a turbocharger. The sound varies at different speeds and engine torque. Sometimes not very noticeable at all. The seats are also hard comparable to competition. Nice build quality though. Not much luxury options for the buck though.

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  Better than expected - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Navig8 - August 14 - 9:18 am

  Not a BMW fan in general, but bought this after a test drive. Its no sports car, but is fun to drive. Much more importantly the refinement is peerless. Interior reviews for this car are so-so, but I personally love the mixture of simplicity and great build quality - it fits my definition of luxury more than lots of buttons or extra decoration. For me, it was the refinement and composure that won me over, but the gas mileage (25mpg so far) is a bonus. Worst aspect is the attention. People think buying a BMW says something about you (either good or bad) - and either way its totally out of proportion with reality... Its just a sedan for crying out loud!! My $40K Nissan got no attention.

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  High cost, low driving satisfaction - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By BB - August 12 - 2:50 pm

  Nicely appointed car with the driving excitement of a mid 90s Ford Taurus. 6 speed shiftable automatic transmission is rough in automatic modes and sluggish when shifted with paddles. Handling gives little road feel, and the car does very poorly on wet roads. Excessive road noise at highway speeds with original run-flat tires. BMW has managed to engineer the fun out of this very quick sedan. Gas mileage on premium is poor. Driver comfort with sport seats is very good, but the front passenger seat is cramped for an average adult. Many of the cars electronic features work only on an intermittent basis. The car is a real disappointment at $50K+ fully equipped.

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  bmw 325 cic - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Jenni Shiflett - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Overall I think this is one of the best vehicles around. It has great fuel economy and for a 325 it is just as nice as our 740.

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  Its a Keeper! - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By Robert - August 11 - 1:14 pm

  I am the second owner of this car. It had 35250 miles when I bought it and now 2 1/2 years later Ive only put 2000 miles on it. It was special ordered with the Dakar Yellow that was only available in the M series that year. So...to me its pretty rare. I keep it covered in the garage and rarely drive it. It always turns heads whenever I take it out. Most of the ones like this are beat. I plan on having it forever. I love this car!

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  Awesome - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By kaiyer - August 10 - 11:38 am

  Just purchased it. Torque if fantastic. Best when merging into the highway. Cabin ergonomics are top rated. The whole family loved it.

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  Perfect Sedan - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By bmw3driver - August 8 - 1:50 pm

  I drive my car very hard, and it has continued to amaze me. For the money, there isnt a car on the market that measures up. Perfect small, luxury sedan.

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  Long term owner reports in - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Brian-330cic - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The car itself handles like a dream.. it sticks to the road, its fun to drive and on those rare topdown days in New York its heavenly. What other car company would listen to its owners complain about the steering being a little to Grandma and offer to replace the entire steering rack with one with a tighter feel FREE OF CHARGE, just because I wasnt happy.. The dealers can be very hit or miss, (Thanks to the US legal system) but look past that to the corporate culture and youre on to a winner. Theres a reason all of the car mags love this car, its because its just practical enough to justify a purchase and is too much damn fun to put down.

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  fun to drive but noisy and rough ride - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By ncc11702 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  sports like handling but rought ride may make your daily trip become tiring.