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:

• 

  My little Bimmer - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Rom - July 16 - 8:16 pm

  I love driving this car. The best part of my day is getting in the drivers seat of my car. This car handles like a dream and I have never driven a car that is better. I test drove an Audi A4, Merecedes C300, and a Nissan Maxima. None of those cars could come close to the BMW. I highly recommend this vehicle.

• 

  Good Looking Lemon - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By Kim - July 16 - 5:15 pm

  Had owned 2 previous BMWs. After the warranty expired, within a couple of years it cost me $12,000 in repairs. Had to replace transmission, control arm, and power steering. This all from someone who drives once a week with a max. of 5000 kms a year. Wished I would have read all the driver reviews before buying it almost brand new from a distant cousin. Low mileage, looks brand new inside and out but do not trust driving it on the highway. Give your money to a panhandler instead. Sits handsomely in the garage. Looking for a new car.

• 

  Holding up well at 25k - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By bmwdriver - July 16 - 2:00 am

  It was either this or the A4 1.8T at the time after narrowing the field but I got a better deal on the 325, plus the 6-cyl had a better feel to it. The 325 handles great in all kinds of conditions (doesnt snow so much in Los Angeles but Ive driven in rain, traffic jams, mountain roads, city streets). No problems yet, just routine maintenance & replacement of back brakes (probably due to freeway congestion & starts/stops). Its hard to describe, but it feels more solid & glued to the road, quicker and safer than any other sedan you might otherwise buy.

• 

  Great car! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By gocanes14 - July 16 - 12:01 am

  I just recently got a 318is and it is a fun little car to drive. It has almost 200,000 miles on it and needs some things like new struts, rack and pinion, timing chain. It handles pretty good and I get pretty good mpgs when I dont drive it hard.

• 

  Fun to drive - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By jimwv - July 14 - 7:10 pm

  Very pleased. Handles very well with a neutral, flat and connected feel to the car. Ergonomics fit me very well and interior is roomy for a compact car. Run flats are acceptable, ride-wise, although once worn, Ill replace with Michelins and put some fix/flat in trunk. Bluetooth works very well. Fantastic leather and interior fit/finish is great but glove box is smallish. For the high price of admission, the standard sound system should be better - okay, but the Logic 7 system shouldnt be an option at this price. Push button start system is, I think, unique. Some may say its odd or gimmicky. Good power but if youre a power monger pop for the 335.

• 

  Great car - 2014 BMW 3-Series
  By Elmer Fudd - July 10 - 6:42 am

  Exceptional materials and build quality. Great milage and trouble free. My only complaint is the standard headlights.

• 

  Rattling Noise, high pitch noise and etc. - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By westwind - July 10 - 12:30 am

  I bought my 328 i AWD sedan in May 2009. It has 1500 miles. I am extremely dissatisfied with it with the following reasons - Under the hood BMW uses many plastic protection covers that cause rattling noise on rough roads - Rattling noise inside both rear doors - Rattling noise coming from cheaply designed cup holders in the front and rear. - Rattling noise inside the armrest between two rear seats. - Major rattling noise coming from inside the dashboard. - Poor engine noise insulation. The hood surface facing the engine does not have any foaming, unlike many other cars. - Flat drive tires cause stiff road experience. - Poor speech detection. This is my second 3 series, but it will be the last.

• 

  Forget the rest buy the best! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Travis - July 9 - 10:20 pm

  Unbelievable comfort and handling! I looked into others. But with the quality of make, driver handling, engine power, as well as the strongest engine for the money in its class, is a great deal compared to the others. I did not go wrong when I selected this car, and you wont either.

• 

  Ouch Ride - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Disappointed - July 8 - 5:57 pm

  I had the car less than a month when I hit a pot hole on the Long Beach Freeway popping one tire and bending two rims. The ride is horrible when going over small bumps and it bottoms out on small speed bumps. I had to replace both rear tires at 20,000 miles as they were completely worn through on the inside. The dealer helped with this due to the earlier problem, but the tires should last much longer. There is no window switch in the back seat! The rear seat passengers have to ask the driver to lower or raise the window. The car is beautiful, but Im glad Im leasing it because its going back at the end of the lease!

• 

  An extension of the driver - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By ms limey - July 8 - 3:30 am

  This car has soul and style, personality and performance, comfort and class. For someone like myself who loves to drive, its hard to imagine anything better unless you spend twice as much. When Im at the wheel and in the mood to have some fun, the car feels like an extension of myself. It is that good.