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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  Do not invest into BMW! - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By Chris - December 25 - 9:05 am

  DO NOT INVEST INTO BMW!!! This company does NOT stand by their word nor treat the customer with respect. If you have a warranty they will not stand by it. All they want is your money... Heads up! When you purchase a car that is considered a lemon how many times does somebody have to bring the car in with the same issues? Especially within the week & first year of buying a vehicle? The 1st week after i bought The car it broke down! With loud and shaky idles, transmission issues, steering issues, bmw has seen the repair history. Im honestly afraid of what the future holds for this car. I feel my families safety is in jeopardy & this is documentation if anything happens. Is this something that usually happens & is this a good experience for a BMW owner? Ive brought this car in numerous times within the first year, one of them being within the first week that I bought it. Did BMW even do the proper screening for this CPO? Doing my research there are numerous recalls on this car and I feel that the issues directly relate with the problems with this car. I wanted give bmw every opportunity to make this right and since youre not doing so and just are offering only me one payment which doesnt help anything with the lemon you guys sold me. I will be sharing my story from many different avenues and not recommending BMW. Im extremely disappointed and very discouraged!

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  Do not get one! unreliable - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By Jade - December 21 - 2:32 am

  so unreliable!!! Ive spent more than this car is worth in repairs. Its in the shop more than it is on the road. Now there is an electral problem no one can seem to fix. Mine has about 150,000 miles on it, and Ive had it for 2 1/2 years. Ive spent over $5,000 in repairs, and the car was $7,500. I still owe $3,500 on it. My advice get a Chevy.

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  Most Unreliable Car I Ever Owned - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By DH - December 15 - 9:20 am

  After driving Saabs for the past 23 years, I excitedly bought a BMW. What a mistake! This is the worse car I have ever owned and that includes a 1973 Vega. It has stranded me, requiring a flatbed ride to the mechanic 5 times in the past 2.5 years. It drives nice, the AWD is excellent and is a great car when it is not with the mechanic. Here are the problems to date: 1. Broken Motor Mount Bolts at 41K miles 2. Water Pump Failure at 50K - stranded 3. Serpentine Belt Failure at 57K - stranded 4. Fuel Pump Failure at 61K - stranded 5. Ignition Coil Failure at 72K - stranded 6. Starter Failure at 76K - stranded Based on conversations with 3 colleagues that also own 328s and 335s, these problems are common. I am dumping this car in the spring and will never own a BMW again.

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  The Ultimate Trap Machine - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By KC - November 4 - 2:27 pm

  I love the twin-turbo power and handling but it gave more misery than joy of driving it. It was more expensive repairing it than raising my child. A piece of German crap!!!!

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  BMW 2008 328xi - got rid of it at 104k miles - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By perk82 - October 28 - 1:45 pm

  If you are under warranty or less than 75K miles, you are lucky otherwise get rid of it before parts start to fall of the car and it stops on you in the middle of a freeway at 75 miles per hour speed not once but thrice, each time for a different issue. I would also quote here a dealership words on a expensive repair cost "Sir, what do you expect, your BMW has over 90K miles". I learnt my lesson that day.

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  Bent rod, needs a new engine - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By Dominic Moruzzi - September 21 - 9:18 pm

  Ive been a member of the BMWCCA for more than ten years now. This is my 7th three series. M package, rear wheel drive manual 6speed, Power Kit so 320 HP. Noticed and felt engine noise since 68k miles. thought it might be the flywheel and clutch. Replaced at $3,000. Not the issue Dealership did a compression test, said it needs a new engine. $18,000! BMW will cover 50% because its out of warranty. I provided all oil change docs. BMW wanted to see oil changes at least every 15k. I averaged every 7,500 miles. Never auto crossed or tracked. Commuter car, 42 year old father of four. Not laying down patches or beating on the car. My take, dont buy a turbo model. Too much stress on the engine components. Never own one of these out of warranty, youre asking for trouble. Fuel pump was replaced under warranty (common issue), water pump was on my dime. Hardly reliable, worst car Ive ever owned. Beast on the highway? at 4.3 0-60 yes. Sad to say it, Im a Bimmer guy through and through but thats it for me. BMW corporate said they wouldnt make a repair coverage decision until they knew for sure what the problem was. I wanted the dealership to drop the oil pan to definitively diagnose the issue so I could tell BMW NA what was wrong. After the compression test all of a sudden the dealership clammed up like it was a cover up? The dealership would not go any further. They told the manufacturer that it needed a new engine without ever dropping the oil pan and taking a peek. Didnt make sense. I still want to have an independent garage take a look so maybe I can get some video or pics and post them. Forget about BMW customer service. I got someone on the line outsourced from India. If you must buy a BMW again never own one out of warranty! Unless your buying a fixer upper for a couple of grand. Good luck!

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  money pit - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By terri - September 6 - 9:55 pm

  i drove the 324ci for close to 2 years. The repair bills emptied my bank account. I replaced timing belt, brakes, rotors, tune up air conditioner, misfiring twice, radiator, tie rod... The list keeps growing. I finally had to draw the line when the trunk started flooding and I had to vacuum over a foot of water out from under the spare tire. I "traded "it for another car. The value was next to nothing and I spend my savings fixing this awful car. Huge regret and now broke.

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  Terrible Car and Poor Service - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By dee134 - May 8 - 11:18 am

  Do not buy a BMW convertible because they leak water. BMW Engineers stated it is normal for all convertible tops to leak. They dont disclose this information before you buy it. BMW corporate office has terrible service dont expect a phone call returned to you.

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  Over-Hyped, Over-Marketed average car - 2013 BMW 3-Series
  By mskyline98 - May 8 - 3:05 am

  I fell for the mass marketing and silly editor reviews on this car. Youre supposed to say its a good car because thats what BMW has been pushing so hard for a long time. The truth is, its a very weak-engined plain & boring car. Not only does my V-6 Accord have tons more power and better MPGs, but it doesnt need premium gas. BMW feels like its the size of a boat in the parking lot, and the ride is so firm and rattling that you should not call it a luxury car. The aged interior looks like it was never changed from the 3-series I always saw in the late 90s. I saw a review that said Hyundais now look nicer inside than BMWs.

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  BMW 328i - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By tame - March 25 - 6:22 am

  When you go for BMW 3 Series you have to check which engine as their are 2 types VANOS system and double" VANOS both engine parts are not available if some one knows he might guide me!!! Make sure if you buy any BMW 3 Series 1999 and above model once its heat up (red light blink for any reasons) I advise you to go to nearest junk yard and through the car there. I spend on repairing it more than the price I bought . its second BMW I own . I don’t advise anyone for BMW 328 I at all