What does it cost?
For The BMW 3 Series has strong performance, excellent economy, fine handling and a luxurious and spacious cabin.
Against There’s a tad too much wind noise, meaning it’s not quite as refined as some of its rivals
What Car? says
An unbeatable combination of talents takes the BMW 3 Series straight to the top of the class. As such, it's our reigning Executive Car of the Year.
What Car? readers say
4.333333
There are 22 BMW 3 Series versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
So far, we’ve only driven three versions of the BMW 3 Series. The 328i, with its four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, is reasonably quick, but the 335i, which has a six-cylinder 3.0-litre twin-turbo, is phenomenally quick. Our favourite so far, though, it the 320d. Its 2.0-litre turbodiesel is effortlessly flexible, and it’s properly quick when you want it to be. It also delivers much better running costs than any other version we’ve driven.
SE looks like the best package of equipment, but above that, buyers can personalise their cars with the Sport, Modern and Luxury trims, while M Sport makes the 3 Series a fine-looking machine that will rival Audi’s S line models.
Anyone buying a 3 Series should also consider one of the two servicing packages, which give you five years, 60,000 miles, servicing for a one-off fee.
Reader test team says:
BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d Eff. Dyn. 4dr
Excellent drive. My first 3 Series, I think it's safe to say I am converted. Very economical and drives beautifully. Good handling too.
4
out of 5 stars
BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d Eff. Dyn. 4dr
The 2.0 diesel is disappointingly noisy and rough sounding, but it has plenty of performance, with very impressive midrange punch. The 6 speed gearbox…
4
out of 5 stars
BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d Sport 4dr
This is our fourth 3 series and replaces a 325D M Sport. The 320D engine isn't as smooth as the six cylinder diesel and is slightly noisier at low…
5
out of 5 stars
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Our pick of the range
BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d SE 4dr
The BMW 3 Series 320d SE is great to drive, cheap to run and well specified, this is the pick of the 3 Series range.
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