Introduction
What Car? says...
The BMW 3 Series has always done the business for business people – it's a well-built, sporty, rear-wheel-drive executive car. That basic concept remains very much at the heart of this seventh-generation model.
The 3 Series saloon is a thoroughly modern proposition, too. You have the option of four-wheel drive – xDrive in BMW speak – along with a range of strong yet efficient petrol and diesel engines to suit most tastes and budgets. There's also a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, which should slice chunks off your company car tax bill and can officially run on electric power for up to 37 miles.
FAQs
It depends on your needs. The BMW 1 Series has a more practical hatchback tailgate at the back to make loading the boot easier, but the 3 Series is far better to drive and has a more extensive range of powerful engines. Read more here
We’d say the 3 Series is worth buying over the Audi A4 or Mercedes C-Class if you value driving. However, there are a number of lower tax electric or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) alternatives for company car users to consider. Read more here
In the executive car class, the entry-level 3 Series costs significantly more than the Skoda Superb, a little more than the equivalent Audi A4, a little less than the Mercedes C-Class Estate, and a lot less than the all electric Tesla Model 3. Read more here
We’d recommend going for the M Sport trim with the M Sport Pro pack in order to get the best ride. Company car drivers should opt for the 330e plug-in hybrid for the lowest company car tax bills, whereas private buyers ought to go for the 320d because it’s efficient and drives really well. Read more here
It's certainly a premium option in the executive car class, but we'd regard the BMW 7 Series as the luxury car choice in the BMW range. Read more here
| RRP price range | £38,990 - £57,985 |
|---|---|
| Number of trims (see all) | 8 |
| Number of engines (see all) | 5 |
| Available fuel types (which is best for you?) | hybrid, diesel, petrol |
| MPG range across all versions | 188.3 - 58.9 |
| Available doors options | 4 |
| Company car tax at 20% (min/max) | £986 / £4,218 |
| Company car tax at 40% (min/max) | £1,972 / £8,435 |
| Available colours |
