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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  Perfect Fit, Finish, and Design - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By klutch1 - March 14 - 8:08 pm

  By far, one of the greatest BMWs I have ever owned. Make that one of the best built, highly refined autos I have ever driven. Excellent power, great fit and finish, and just the ultimate driving experience. Bar-none, the best 2 door convertible available on the market today. And BMW makes it so easy to own with low financing and very easy credit. A+++

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  Great car, amazing with chip! - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Scott M. - March 14 - 7:16 am

  Edmunds alludes, in its full test, to the potential for aftermarket chips to greatly improve the performance of this car. I can attest to this, having installed Dinan performance software about a week after delivery of the car. My car pulls extremely strong, especially north of 3000 rpm. Plus, Dinan matches BMWs 4/50 powertrain warranty. I love this car.

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  Awesome Car - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By bbrown7 - March 11 - 3:48 pm

  Had the car for a couple weeks so far, and its been a pleasure. Base model with auto trans and heated seats. Dealer agreed to replace the Bridgestone Turanzas with Continental RFTs prior to me taking delivery. Handling is fantastic, build quality outstanding. No issues so far whatsoever.

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  Bought Car used in 2013 - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By BMWguy - March 10 - 10:10 pm

  This car has been amazing i wont lie.. For being my first car to buy on my own i am happy with my purchase.. Bought the car with 67k miles on it and now driving it around with over 140k miles. This car drives and handles just like you see in the commercials.. You can drive fast around sharp curves and have your headlights lead the way.. For someone who is 64 size isnt the best but not terrible either i have with it. I drove from Washington state to New York in my car and was comfortable the whole way.. I will say after 145k miles you will start to see issues.. I have had to have all my Spark plugs and coil packs replaced probably totaling $500 all together. Then recently with in two weeks i have had my serpentine belt replaced, and its pulley replaced totaling over $300, plus i have had electrical issues with my car completely going dead loss of all power 2x now luckily at home though.. Thanks to AAA saves my life. I have had my air conditioner not working, and other minor errors. This car burns through oil like nothing, and tends to have oil leaks.. Love the car but i think its time to get something newer.. I would suggest buying this car and year if you are getting it with low miles.. Its a fantastic car.. .

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  Buy one - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By cdh bmw - March 6 - 11:09 pm

  Only had this car for a few days, for u BMW people I had an E36 m3 and this car is every bit the car that the old m was, but my wife is pregnant so I need a 4 door. This car with sport package and manual trans plus all the modern features is truly awesome. The only other car to look at was the g35 but got a great deal on a cpo car.

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  335i Coupe is Unreal! - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By zimbim - March 6 - 4:00 pm

  This car is so much fun to drive. Its amazingly comfortable equipped with the sport package seats, iDrive is easy to use after a brief learning curve, voice commands are awesome, keyless go is tremendous and the handling and acceleration is superb. Outside of that, I hate the car!

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  SWEAT - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Andie - March 5 - 8:46 am

  It is a great car.

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  bimmer - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By e28 m5 - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This car is a pleasure to drive and looks sharp. T he engine and manual 5sp are crisp while the s uspension is just perfect and balanced. Couldnt w ait for the performance pkg so I opted for the s port pkg with 18 mv rims. I could drive BMWs for the rest of my life and n ever yearn for another auto!!!!

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  BMW-- Simply Excellent - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By WarEmblem - March 4 - 10:00 am

  This is my first BMW, and by comparison, no car compares! I am excited about starting off with this level of vehicle. The transmission and engine are golden. I also am learning how to drive a stick--yes, I am learning on my brand-new Bimmer. Nice smooth clutch.

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  Sporty - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Gregg - February 28 - 6:13 pm

  This is my first BMW and have been thinking about it for a LONG time. Im glad a did it. This car has a great cross between sport and luxury. The power under the hood is a GREAT plus. The steptronic transmission just tops it off. every input I give to the car it takes and wants more! This car is fun to drive and I feel very safe behide the wheel. If you thinking about getting this car and you like to drive. DONT put it off as long as I did.