Used BMW 3 Series cars

The style of the car

The 3 Series is BMW’s best-selling model. It’s a family/executive car that’s available as either a four-door saloon or five-door estate (known as Touring). There are lots of versions to choose from and all offer a blend of great quality and practicality. Whether you go for the latest model (on sale new since 2019) or its predecessor, the 3 Series is a sharp-looking car. M Sport versions have a sportier look, with different bumpers and larger alloy wheels.

How it drives

The BMW 3 Series is a rewarding car to drive. Its rear-wheel drive layout (or four-wheel drive for xDrive models), precise steering and great balance through corners make it as enjoyable as some sports cars. Most of the engines available give you strong performance, as well as superb fuel economy. Long-distance comfort is excellent thanks to the quiet interior and smooth ride. Sportier models have stiffer suspension and larger wheels that can make the ride a bit bumpier, but they’re still comfortable.

The interior

The 3 Series has a high-quality interior that feels well built and looks great. Many useful high-tech features are available and both the latest model and the previous version have an infotainment system that feels bang up to date and is easy to use. All versions of the 3 Series have five seats. Both saloon and Touring models have lots of space for four adults but the central back seat is best suited to children since it’s rather hard and narrow. All versions have a large boot, with the saloon’s being big enough for three medium suitcases. The Touring’s boot isn’t as large as some rivals’ but it’s roomy enough for four medium suitcases and you can open the back window separately from the boot lid, which is handy in tight parking spaces.

Running costs and reliability

Most 3 Series models offer a good compromise between performance and fuel economy, with impressive mpg figures for all but the most high-performance petrol models. A plug-in hybrid version called the 330e has been on sale new since 2017,  offering very low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions plus the ability to travel short distances on electric power alone. BMW has an excellent reputation for reliability although the brand finished last in the most recent J.D. Power UK Vehicle Dependability Study, an independent customer satisfaction survey.

How the BMW 3 Series compares with similar cars

The BMW 3 Series is smaller and costs less than the BMW 5 Series but it’s bigger than BMW’s 1 Series models. Its main rivals are the Audi A4 and Mercedes C-Class and all three are closely matched for size, quality and equipment. The 3 Series is a similar size to cars such as the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia but since it’s a premium-brand model it generally costs more to buy.

Which is better, the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4? Our car comparison guide tells you everything you need to know.