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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  Truly excellent car - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By K Emerson - May 5 - 2:54 am

  After reading some reviews I decided I needed this car, and I have no regrets. I found a very clean 1 owner 2 door sport coupe with 120k miles. It still looks new in and out and has a kind of modern timeless look, it looks great sitting next to a newer model. Everything is still tight on this car, the gear box, engine and handling are amazing. The manual transmission makes driving fun all over again. With ABS, sport suspension package, performance with great fuel economy and safety features, it is a true bargain. Ive owned this vehicle for 7 months now and have really put it through the paces, and it drives like a dream. (You wont go back to your funky Accord, trust me:)

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  4000 mile review - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By sfbmw - May 4 - 11:43 am

  I have owned my first BMW (blk sapph/blk leather/alum/manual/sport/prem/CA/shades/nav/rear folding seats) for a little over a month and have completed just over 4k miles. Yes, its that fun to drive. Driving Feel - always feels planted, minimal roll in turns. Feels very tight and composed during aggressive driving. Delivers power on demand with smooth acceleration. These combined with a well-insulated cabin, make high speed driving feel effortless and safe. Light, precise clutch, solid shifter movement. iDrive+BT - handy for ad-hoc exploring, fun & easy to use. Pwr shade - neat toy but not used much. Was skeptical about Comfort Access but wont get a car without it now (same with nav).

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  Best Cabrio on the Road - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Adeel - May 4 - 10:00 am

  This is the best 4 seater convertible ever.

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  Buyer Beware - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Cathy Berenberg - May 4 - 4:33 am

  My experience with this car has been both thrilling and disappointing. My complaint is that the front end is too low and scrapes against the speed bumps in my parking garage. I had a Chrysler Sebring some years ago that was lower and although there were scratches on the underbelly it didnt do any further damage. Unfortunately, the plastic in this car is inferior and has ripped loose three times within the last four monthes. First, the front bumper had to be replaced when the plastic brackets snapped off at a cost of over $800 to me. The second time, the temperature sensor came loose and scraped the street until the wires were stripped bare. Its now happened again!

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  Incredible Performance and Handling - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By New BMW Owner in SA - May 3 - 3:51 pm

  Im a first time BMW owner. I was looking to upgrade to a vehicle with better handling and performance and I have not been disappointed. I also purchased a Dinan engine upgrade to make a great vehicle even better. Once the vehicle break in period is over, I look forward to really seeing what the vehicle can do. Additionally, the new character lines on the hood, and the new head and tail lights really make the vehicle look sharp. Overall, I couldnt be happier!

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  Love this car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By howard - May 2 - 6:35 am

  I have had many cars in my life but this is my favorite. I just love this car. The timeless classic style and she handles great. This is my first BMW. I bought it on a whim for $1800 and instantly fell in love with her. She runs great but needs some minor fixes. My new passion and hobby will be to provide all the TLC she needs and restore her to the ultimate driving machine she was meant to be.

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  Best in this class - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By illa - April 29 - 2:34 pm

  Last December it was a time to return my 2006 Impreza from a lease, so I spent good month in advance to shop around for new car. Right now any new one good loaded mid size sedan will go easy up to 30k, and if its German then you are looking around 40k. So I decided to buy 2006 certified car, had to drive 2006 C-class, A4, Jetta, etc. They all good but not impressed until I stop by at local Bimmer dealer and took 325i with premium pack for test drive. Guys I couldnt believe that car could be made so well balanced suspension/power/comfort. I just felt in love with it plus 0.9% financing for 5 years, two first payments made by BMW, and great price to clean the inventory by the end of the year.

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  Worth the wait! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By dhump33 - April 29 - 11:13 am

  I love the way the car looks (Mystic Blue with gray interior) with sports package. I feel safe in the car because it is so solidly made. Its so much fun to drive and to be seen in! I had an epiphany when washing my bimmer for the first time by hand. It reminded me of my first Hot Wheels toy car, a BMW, orange and a 300 series from the 70s. AS I was washing my car I felt like I was washing my toy car.

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  My dream car - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By zenbob - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I upgraded from a 99 BMW 328i to a 2002 BMW 330i, so you know I was pleased with my 1st BMW experience. I bought a "program" car with 15K miles with almost all the options including Sport/premium package, Xenon and heated seats. My previous car did not have the sport package or Xenon. This model has auto-head lights. I would recommend this car to anyone who loves to drive with enthusiasm and likes "performance" driving, but not to someone looking for a luxury car. Cant wait to try it on the track! If you can afford it, get the Performance package.

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  There is no comparison - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By sshuit - April 29 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd 3-series BMW. The handling / drivetrain is impeccable. The exterior and interior finish is superb. I could go on for pages and pages about how fun this car is to drive but you simply have to get behind the wheel to know what Im talking about. Only bad points ? : Mediocre sound system. Had to install a short shift kit to get for a good precice shifter feel. Milage isnt great if you drive enthusiastically :-)