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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  used value - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By knudsonm - January 31 - 2:00 am

  These cars are ticking time bombs. Watch out!!!! Ive owned mine for less than a year and has cost me $2000 in parts alone with me doing all of the repairs myself and has been off the road for 4 months. I checked the car over with a fine tooth comb before buying and still have the problems. I shouldve boughten a Chevy!!!

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  This car is the worst - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Khryssie77 - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I have had my BMW for a few years now, and I have had nothing but problems with it. It is constantly in the shop at the dealership having parts repaired. I have brought this car in once a month for the past two years. I have had terrible experiences with BMW and have friends that have experienced the same problems. This is the last time I will ever purchase a BMW and I definately do not recommend this car to people who are considering it.

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  The ultimate driving piece of **** - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By johnj - December 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought a new 2003 BMW 330CIC. What a mistake! Within 2 months, I started having problems. First the warning lights would go on for no apparent reason. I would bring it in to the shop and they would "hook it up to the computer" and tell me nothing was wrong. Then my car started sputtering and they replaced the choke valve. Next, my car just stopped running. 2 more trips to the shop and 2 roadside assistances later, I finally unloaded this "ultimate driving machine." I had hoped to get another BMW thinking this was just a fluke, but dealing with the dealership and BMW headquarters made me see the light. I love my lexus!

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  Overrated 325I - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Richard Lipp - September 7 - 5:13 pm

  By far the most overrated car I have ever owned. Interior is slightly above average. Craftmanship is fair to poor. Paint is poor. Tires (Bridgestone RFTs) are the worst ever. BMW NA is the least consumer oriented company I have ever dealt with. I would never buy another BMW again. There are many alternatives in the $35-50,000 range that are considerably better in many ways. Dont be sold on the "Ultimate Driving Machine" hype. Good marketing program but no substance.

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  BMW 3 series a bust - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By CABMW - February 19 - 2:00 am

  There are so many things wrong.Dont know where to start.Plastic radiator lasts maybe 3 yrs at best.Always in the shop.Never buy BMW again!!!

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  Very Disappointed in this car - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By mikmat - December 13 - 10:00 am

  This car has had too many problems and BMW service have not done a good job at addressing them. I am tired of hearing that they cannot duplicate the problem. At about 4K miles the rear differential had to be replaced (with a rebuilt one). Car stalls at idle. One dealer replaced the ignition coil as a fix, but problem occurred within 30 minutes after the fix. Another dealers claimed that there was no problem, but finally admitted that it was an engine software problem for which a fix does not yet exisit. Shifting into 1st gear is hard at times. Speakers rattle. There is excess wind noise at hwy speeds. window regulator had to be replaced. A disappointment.

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  07 328i 4door - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Disappointed - November 7 - 5:46 am

  What a disappointment this vehicle has been. I now have 22,000 miles on this car and it had to have the rear differential changed, the seats had to be re-painted, whiplash on take off and various other issues. Cant lemon law this vehicle because it hasnt been in the shop enough. You would think when a large component like the differential going they (BMW) would step up and recognize the actual defect.

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  No more German cars - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By grant faria - September 15 - 2:37 pm

  As a car guy my whole life I always heard how great BMWs were. So after years of Japanese and American cars with no complaints I decided to buy a 3 Series I could finally afford. Unfortunately I learned a BMW is no better (and in may ways worse) than a car that costs car less. It is a terrible value with poor fuel economy, higher than average insurance costs and unreliable parts that cost FAR more than a regular car to replace. I will never buy another German car after owning this car.

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  Pretty & fun car but unreliable! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By T.Mk1 - September 3 - 2:04 am

  This car was fun to drive and pretty to look at. HOWEVER, the frequency of breakdowns was relentless. I didnt mind the repair costs, but the fact that this car broke down so many times was stressful. I was stranded on the road 3 times! I did the repairs myself, but the parts I bought for it added up to be $3000. If labor was added, it wouldve been close to $7000. Here is a list of things that I remember I had to replace on this car: Vacuum lines, secondary air pump, secondary air valve, vacuum solenoid, crankcase valve, control arm bushings, antifreeze reservoir, auxiliary fan, radiator fan, blower motor resistor, 2 window regulators, windshield wiper motor, windshield cowl, fuel filler cap, MAF sensor, camshaft sensor, DISA valve. It was also burning oil every 2000 miles. All of these parts failed within 1 year of owning this car, it had only 120,000 miles. Its true what they say, they are endless money pits. You have been warned. Lesson learned.

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  bye bye Beemer - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By ElDriver - February 15 - 7:26 pm

  I have hard far too many problems. After 2000 miles an annoying buzz developed in the dash. The dealer acknowledged the problem but was under to fix, told me this is part of owning a Performance Car. Air conditioner quit working in the middle of the summer. After 8,000 miles it refused to start, leaving me stranded out of town. The firm, sport suspension grows tiring on any thing other than short trips. I expected much more from this car. I am very disappointed.