Overview & Reviews
The 3 Series coupe and convertible have been slightly restyled for 2011, and have been given an additional model in the form of the more sport-oriented 335is. All 335i models receive a new, more fuel-efficient turbocharged engine. The upgraded stereo is also once again branded as a Harman Kardon.
- Unmatched ride/handling balance, smooth and powerful engines, reasonably fuel-efficient, upscale cabin, four body styles, elegant hardtop convertible design, available diesel engine.
- Limited interior storage space, compromised rear headroom, options can inflate price quickly.
User Reviews:
Showing 1 through 10 of 99.00-
After a 3year lease happy to turn it in - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By phillydad - March 30 - 8:38 amThis car is about its looks and the young feel, when you drive it. Beyond this I am NOT happy at all and will not buy this or any other BMW. Within only 34 month I had to replace 6 tires and repair the wheels twice. The run flat tires are a disaster, unrepairable and they destroy the wheels. Maybe good for the German Autobahn but not for everyday American streets. The navigation and entertainment system is very cumbersome an even after 3 years many functions a mystery to me. The electric works at its own will like windows rolling up and down without your command. At lease end they will nickel an dime you to make another buck. I have decided to turn to Mercedes Benz....
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Amazing Drive..Erognomically just ok - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By khiladi - February 16 - 9:31 amsee below
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Nice car ruined by severe engine breaking - this is for sedan with auto transmission Edmunds does not have a selection for auto transmission - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By jeffzx - January 19 - 7:16 pmProblem with the 328i Steptronic Auto Transmission is the harsh engine breaking when you let up on the gas. At slow speeds, and especially in stop- and-go traffic, the heavy engine braking is enough to get many nauseous as the car does not easily coast to a stop. I have never gotten car sick while driving, but with this car if I drive it in heavy traffic for 30 minutes or so I will get car sick. A BMW Expert told me "I have had a few customers tell me the same thing so I am not surprised of noticing the engine braking." Further, the car emits a very high-pitch sound for about 45 seconds every time you open or close any door or the trunk. Finally, the run flat tires give a harsh ride.
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Impressions of a 1st Time Owner - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By cdofil - June 2 - 11:48 pmAs most consumer reviews are from a BMW fan, often the focus are more of the "Driving Experience" and "the engines". I will try to fill-in a little more details of my first impressions from the perspective of a first time owner. But due to the 700 character limitation of the review form, just follow through my comments for my detailed experiences. Please note that my rating does not include safety features that the car offers which I believe Edmunds.com should have placed such category.
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Unexpected disappointment - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By Dirttrack - December 5 - 2:00 amBefore you purchase a 328i please check the equipment list. Base car has no tinted windshield, no alarm, not even a beep when you lock the car. Perhaps a $550.00 special paint job, no seatback storage and perhaps other items I missed. Billed out at $39,000 and not even XM radio. First oil change is 12,000 mi. But, it is a tremendous driving machine. The advertising is correct. Almost only want to drive on two lane roads. Great grip, great brakes only the low beams are a little to low. Fun to drive but check your extras. My responsibility to check equipment. If you want a real car to drive, get a 328i, nothing like it.
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Great to Look At - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By Ingrid - May 3 - 10:14 pmRead the Carfax. Under 50000 miles this 328i 3 series convertible hard top, needed a fuel pump and console. The most uncomfortable seat on trips over say 4 hours for what it is. The design is beautiful but if it is going to have these issues under 50,000 miles forget it. I have to say, I will go back to the Honda/Acura. Bumper to bumper warranties up to 100,000 miles. AT 70000 miles the radio went out which is connected to all the alarms. Brakes were at 5 mm and the dash icon came on and dealer says it will not go out until all is fixed. $4000.00 dollars and they have had my car over 7 days. BMW dealer in Mobile Al says they got a "bad radio" and had to send for another. No loaner cars available to get to work. I will never go back to this dealer. On the recall I received notice from BMW that parts were in for those Takata air bags and the gal making appointments was reading from a script that they didnt have parts. I wound up going to Mississippi to get it fixed Needing repairs so early on the vehicle and having to deal with poorly managed dealership has made my taste for BMW bitter.
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Diesel Exhaust Tech not ready for prime time - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By John Ranalletta - December 16 - 5:01 amIve driven this 11 335d for nearly 5 years and 100k miles. I love the car but not when the service engine soon light turns on. Usually, its a fault related to the SCR (diesel exhaust fluid) system issue. Having purchased the 100k BMW warranty, the repairs were covered, except for replacement of the catalytic converter which the dealer stated was not covered. I have to pay $500 labor and the dealer is providing the part. This is not an inexpensive car to own/maintain and Id likely not buy another BMW diesel even though theres a lot to like about driving one.
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Fun car, poor reliability and even worse service - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By Aaron - August 19 - 11:17 amI have owned two BMW 3 series cars in the last 10 years. They are fun to drive and reasonably practical. However they are riddled with stupid problems and my experience with their dealers for warranty service has been overall terrible. Every issue I have to bring the car in multiple times and usually I get it back with further problems caused by the repairs. If you are expecting "luxury car" levels of service with you BMW you will be disappointed.
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Great ride but too much maintenance - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By trinitylzh - June 23 - 6:04 pmThe 328i drives beautifully - tight steering and hugs the road. Requires too much maintenance. Buy with a BMW maintenance and warranty plan or have a spare car and extra funds for repairs.
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Fun but better can be had at this price - 2011 BMW 3-Series
By Mark - July 16 - 1:10 pmThe front seats are comfortable. The rear lacks leg room and just OK for 2. Extremely uncomfortable for 3. Great engine. Reliability could be better. Interior materials are cheap and constantly need repair. Exterior rubber trim dry rots quickly, especially those around the windows. Other, better luxury cars are available in this price range.
