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BMW 3 SERIES Used Car Review

The 3 Series is German car maker BMW's signature model - a compact luxury passenger car that has existed in multiple generations since its 1975 debut. Since 2014, the 3 Series name has applied to sedan and wagon body styles only, with coupe and convertible models adopting the 4 Series nomenclature. The 3 Series has long been considered one of the most entertaining cars to drive in its class, and the flagship M3 performance variant is especially famous.

Pros

Cons

  • Entertaining to drive with beautiful handling
  • Fuel efficiency consistently excellent, and often class-leading
  • Superb performance of six-cylinder engines
  • Good build quality
  • Run-flat tyres (introduced in 2007 in lieu of a spare wheel) bring a firmer ride
  • Four-cylinder turbos replaced brand's famous six-cylinders in performance but not sound
  • Adaptive suspension (optional on many models) needed for best ride quality
  • Interior presentation has generally lagged behind rival Audi A4
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
BMW3SedanRear Wheel Drive4 cylPremiumClear all

Top2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i M Sport Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 112292 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$22,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

Top2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 37415 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience the epitome of luxury and performance with the 2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Sports Automatic Sedan, where sophistication meets dynamic driving in a sleek and elegant package. Crafted to elevate every journey, this sedan seamlessly combines exquisite design with advanced technology. With its smooth sports automatic transmission and potent 320i engine, the 3 Series M Sport delivers a refined and responsive driving experience on any road. Step inside the impeccably cra

$49,500 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bibra Lake, WA

Dealer used
23 hours ago

Top2015 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330i M Sport 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 118000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We are a family owned Land Rover and Prestige specialist located near Brighton, Victoria We accept any trade and offer finance and warranty options *PLEASE NOTE: THE BUILD DATE MAY NOT BE ACCURATE AS VEHICLES ADVERTISED IN VICTORIA ARE SOLD BASED UPON ON THE YEAR OF COMPLIANCE - PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR CONSULTANT TO CONFIRM BUILD DATE. VEHICLE FEATURES AND OPTIONS LISTED IN THIS ADVERTISEMENT ARE AUTOMATICALLY SUPPLIED BY REDBOOK FOR THIS MAKE/MODEL AND ARE NOT SPECIFIC TO THIS VEHICLE. PLEA

$28,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
28/04/2024

Top2012 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0812 328i Red 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 136054 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$17,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
21 hours ago

Top2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 99796 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$18,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$86,200 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
29/04/2024

2015 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 316i Sport Line Black 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 125656 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.6L

Experience luxury and style in this classy BMW 3 Series sedan. This sleek black beauty is loaded with features to elevate your driving experience. With a price of $22,990.00 AUD, this 2015 BMW 316i Sport Line Sedan is a steal! From the 17" alloy wheels to the leather steering wheel, every detail exudes sophistication. The air conditioning with solar sensor keeps you comfortable on every drive, while the 6 speaker stereo system provides crystal-clear sound. The front and rear cameras ensure you

$22,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Archerfield, QLD

Dealer used
8 minutes ago

2008 BMW 320d E90 08 Upgrade Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 170700 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2008 BMW 320d LMCT certified Pre-owned, RWC and Rego included. Up to 5 Years Extended warranty available Odo: 170, 640km Features: - 2 keys - ?service history - ?beige interior - ?keyless entry - ?keyless start - ?rear parking sensors - ?trip computer - ?multifunctional steering wheel - ?voice recognition - ?dual zone climate - ?cruise control - ?auto wipers - ?auto headlights - ?sunroof - ?electric front seats - ?illuminated sun visors with mirror - ?Bluetooth - ?GPS Find Your

$13,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Vermont, VIC

Dealer used
51 minutes ago

2018 BMW 330i F30 LCI MY18 Luxury Line Alpine White 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 112402 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience excellence from the 2022 IVI Dealer of the Year and benefit from our exceptional services: * FREE INTERSTATE TRANSPORT to Eastern States. * Engage with us through LIVE VIDEO CALLS. * Enjoy peace of mind with our comprehensive 12-MONTH WARRANTY. * Access complimentary CAR HISTORY REPORTS. * Trust in our INDEPENDENT VEHICLE INSPECTION REPORTS by IVI. * Conveniently located near the M2 Motorway in Sydney's Lower North Shore, we're open 7 days a week. * Enhance your car buying journey w

$32,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Artarmon, NSW

Dealer used
53 minutes ago

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i Sport Line Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 84488 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

LOW KM MSPORT SEDAN, STUNNING BLUE WITH BLACK LEATHER MSPORT SEATS, SUNROOF, GOOD HISTORY, EASY ONSITE FINANCE INC NO DEPOSIT OPTIONS AND SAME DAY APPROVALS, ALL TRADE INS WELCOMED

$25,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Palmyra, WA

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2007 BMW 320D AUTO DIESEL 4CYL 2.0L ONLY 139,000KMs

  • 139000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2007 BMW 320D AUTO DIESEL 4CYL 2.0L ONLY 139,000KMs 🔥🔥🔥 CLEARANCE SALE 🔥🔥🔥 🏁 BMW 320D AUTO DIESEL 4CYL 2.0L ONLY 139,000KMs 🏁 ENGINE START/STOP BUTTON 🏁 CRUISE CONTROL 🏁 ODO: 139,000KMs 🏁 LEATHER SEATS 🏁 BLUETOOTH 🏁 WARRANTY 🏁 SUN ROOF 🏁 AUX PORT 🏁 DIESEL 🏁 AUTO 🏁 4CYL 🏁 RWC 🏁 2.0L 🏁🏁 6MONTH FRESH REGO AVAILABLE UPON YOUR REQUEST [$450 SURCHARGE] 🏁🏁 THE CAR COMES WITH ROAD WORTHY CERTIFICATE 🏁🏁 YEAR OF MANUFACTURE: 2006 COMPLIANCE: 2007 🏁🏁 THE CAR COMES WITH

$8,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Slacks Creek, QLD

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i M Sport Grey Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite M Sport Package Pro Sports automatic transmission Steptronic M Sport brake, red high-gloss M Lights Shadow Line M seat belts M Rear spoiler M High-Gloss Shadow Line with extended contents Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live

$108,800 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
2 hours ago

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Grey Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$89,900 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
2 hours ago

2008 BMW 3 Series E90 MY08 320d Steptronic Gold 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 132970 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Guaranteed clear title, RWC Trade-Ins Welcome Finance approval available Warranty Available Independent pre purchase inspections welcome. We are a family owned dealership with over 30 years experience in the automotive industry. We pride ourselves in providing our customers a seamless and memorable experience. So, if you're looking to purchase a quality pre-owned vehicle visit our dealership conveniently located just 15 minutes from Melbourne CBD. Please note, vehicle inspection is via ap

$9,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Coburg North, VIC

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2015 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 328i Sport Line Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 162047 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

*Australia wide, interstate transport options available *3 years parts and labour warranty available *Great trade in valuations offered *Over 200 vehicle in stock *Test Drives & Trade-Ins Welcome *Price is exclusive of $395 dealer admin fee *W e s t e r n S y d n e y ' s #1 Vehicle Wholesaler! *COME TO YARD 5 , CARCITY P#

$18,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2019 BMW 330i F30 LCI M Sport White 8 Speed Auto Steptronic Sport Sedan

  • 68376 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This 2019 BMW 330i M-SPORT SEDAN is a 2.0 Litre 4cyl Turbo with an 8 Speed Automatic and has travelled 68,000kms. This 330i is finished in Alpine White with a Tan Leather Interior and features: + 19 Inch Wheels + Sunroof + Sat Nav + Park Distance Control with 360 Degree Parking Cameras & Auto Park Assist + DAB Digital Radio + Apple CarPlay & Android Auto + Keyless Start + Heated Front Electric Seats with Memory + Tri-Zone Climate Control + Head Up Display + Radar Cruise Control + Collision Ass

$44,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Rozelle, NSW

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 58251 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

All of our pre-owned vehicles undergo a 100 Point inspection by our qualified technicians. ***Enquire about our Toyota Certified vehicles today*** Trade in your current vehicle. With high volume and low over heads we can PAY MORE. We will trade your vehicle in regardless of age, condition or kms. Even if you are not purchasing from us, we are happy to buy your vehicle. We stock over 300 quality pre-owned vehicles so please contact us or simply call in to speak to one of our professional ve

$47,887 Excl. Gov. Charges
Canning Vale, WA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2008 BMW 320i E90 08 Upgrade Executive Grey 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 174216 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** 2008 BMW 320i EXECUTIVE E90 08 UPGRADE MPFI 2.0L 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC Only $10,990 Or Finance From Only $55 P/w ** This Vehicle Is Absolutely Immaculate! Come Down And Test Drive Today!** Economical But Powerful 2.0 Petrol Engine With a Sporty 6 Speed Automatic Steptronic Transmission This is Highly Sought After Combination** **Only travelled a super low 174,000 Ks!!** Credit to the previous owner!**Don't miss out on this one!** -Leather Trim -Dual Front Airbags Package -Anti-

$10,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2007 BMW 320i E90 Grey 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 179333 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** 2007 BMW 320i E90 MPFI 2.0L 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC Only $10,990 Or Finance From Only $55 P/w ** This Vehicle Is Absolutely Immaculate! Come Down And Test Drive Today!** Economical But Powerful 2.0 Petrol Engine With a Sporty 6 Speed Automatic Steptronic Transmission This is Highly Sought After Combination** **Comes with Owners Manuals & Log Books with Good Service History** **Only travelled a super low 179,000 Ks!!** Credit to the previous owner!**Don't miss out on this one!** -L

$10,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 330i M Sport Sedan 4dr Steptronic 8sp 2.0T Alpine White Automatic Sedan

  • 70000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Presenting this immaculate 2019 BMW 330I M Sport, finished in Alpine White over Black Leather Interior, this sporty sedan is the perfect fit for your next adventure. This vehicle qualifies for: - 3 or 5 year Warranty - Competitive finance and novated leasing packages - Same day finance T.A.P - Trade-Ins welcome Along with a powerful 190KW Turbo Engine, and a combined fuel economy of 6.4L/100KM, this BMW is also equipped with the following features: - M Sport Body Kit - 19 Inch Sport Wheels

$48,450 Excl. Gov. Charges
Thornbury, VIC

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i M Sport Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 143859 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

HEAVILY OPTIONED, M SPORT PACKAGE, M PERFORMANCE FRONT SPLITTER, REAR SPOILER AND UPGRADED M PERFORMANCE WHEELS, SUNROOF, PREMIUM SOUND SYSTEM, FULL LEATHER, HEATED SEATS, GPS NAVIGATION, BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS, REVERSING CAMERA, ELECTRIC WINDOWS, FOG LIGHTS, BLUETOOTH AND USB CONNECTIVITY, CRUISE CONTROL, CLIMATE CONTROL AND MUCH MORE. Introducing the epitome of driving pleasure: the 2013 F30 328i M Sport Sedan. Crafted to perfection by BMW, this luxurious sedan seamlessly combines performance,

$19,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Port Melbourne, VIC

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1112 328i Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 52960 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

The BMW 328i Sedan boasts a sleek and athletic exterior design characterized by clean lines, a bold kidney grille, and signature BMW styling cues. Optional features such as LED headlights, sport packages, and alloy wheels enhance its visual appeal and performance-oriented appearance. The 2013 BMW 328i Sedan is powered by a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Despite its small displacement, this engine delivers impressive power and torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and

$25,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Pinkenba, QLD

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 320i Steptronic M Sport Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1550 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This BMW 320i M Sport Sedan presented in M Brooklyn Grey Metallic Paint is matched with 18" M Double-spoke Wheels and Black Vernasca Upholstery. The features on this vehicle include: - M Sport Pack - Electrical Glass Roof - Ambient light - Telephony with Wireless Charging - Harman/Kardon surround sound system - M leather Steering Wheel - Heated Steering Wheel - M High-Gloss Extended Shadow Line - Sport Seats for Driver and Passenger - Electric Seats with Memory Function - Heated Seats -

$86,900 Drive Away^
Geelong, VIC

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2024 BMW 320i F30 LCI M Sport Red 8 Speed Auto Steptronic Sport Sedan

  • 223 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

***Fixed Price Sale*** ***Available for immediate delivery*** Retail Price $79,795, massive saving $$$!! Brand New Vehicle, Compliance date 01/2024, delivery date 10/Apr/2024. 5 Years BMW Manufacture Warranty, 3 Years BMW roadside assistance. Full Year Registration till 04/2025. 320i M-sport Model. The perfect combination of high-end luxurious and fuel efficiency. Features and Optioned with: - BMW Alcantara/leather interior - BMW LED Headlights - M-sport package - M High-gloss shadow line -

$66,900 Drive Away^
Croydon, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 320i Steptronic M Sport Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 15156 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

*** STUNNING 2023 320I M-SPORT SEDAN JUST ARRIVED!*** FINISHED IN HIGHLY DESIRABLE BLACK SAPPHIRE WITH BLACK LEATHER TRIM. TRAVELLED ONLY 15,000 KMS PHOTOS & MORE DETAILS TO COME SOON.. So arrange your inspection of this rare beauty for yourself today! We can arrange tailored finance packages to suit all your needs and can assist with interstate transport for your convenience as well. Ours is a large multi franchised dealership group across Sydney and our Prestige showroom is located 5 mi

$65,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Blacktown, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 320i Sport Line Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 107960 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

"Free 12 Months Unlimited Klm Extended Warranty Included".... 2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI Sport Line Automatic 2.0T 4 Door Seda in Mineral Grey with Matching trim,Air Cond,Power Steering,Airbags,ABS Brakes,CD/MP3/AUX/Bluetooth/Reverse Camera/SatNav Audio System,Power Windows,Keyless Remote Central Locking,Factory Alloy Wheels,Rego till June 2024 ... Just Arrived and Priced to Sell.. Our Aim is to make your purchase with us a easy and enjoyable one and that is what separates us from the rest.. Pa

$26,748 Excl. Gov. Charges
Granville, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2012 BMW 328i F30 White 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 162805 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Looking for a sleek and stylish ride that doesn't compromise on performance? Look no further than this 2012 BMW 3 28i F30. With a turbocharged engine and automatic transmission, this BMW will have you cruising in style. Equipped with top-of-the-line safety features such as dual front airbags, anti-lock braking, and dynamic stability control, you can drive with peace of mind knowing you're protected on the road. Enjoy the luxury of leather seats, dual zone climate control, and a multi-function

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2021 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 33111 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

MY21 330i M SPORT AUTOMATIC A GREAT PERFORMANCE CAR Finished in a magic colour scheme of Grey with Black Interior. Impeccably presented and maintained, travelled a mere 32,497 kilometres. This BMW will Come with Full history, books, and spare key. This is a Drive Away Price with the following inclusions. - ROAD WORTHY CERTIFICATE - STAMP DUTY - TRANSFER FEES - 3 MONTH STATUTORY WARRANTY / 5000KMS - EVERY CAR SERVICED We are a Ford Dealership located only a 2 minute walk from La

$60,850 Drive Away^
Ravenhall, VIC

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2010 BMW 320d

  • 271304 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Front Impact damage Unlic Repairable Write-Off Engine runs fine. Call Motown Auto Wholesale

$3,000 Excl. Gov. Charges
East Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
6 hours ago

2022 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Steptronic M Sport Portimao Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 7008 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Buy from an Authorised BMW Dealer - We are a family-owned business located on Sydney's Northern Beaches that has been in operation for over 50 years. ** BALANCE OF BMW 5 YEAR WARRANTY & 3 YR BMW SERVICE PACKAGE - HIGHLY OPTIONED ** January 2023 registered BMW 330i Sedan finished in M Portimao Blue metallic with Leather Vernasca Cognac. Key features include: - M Sport Package with 19" M Lt/Aly wheels Double-spoke 791 M Bicolour - Equipment Package Professional - Visibility Package - Comfort P

$77,990 Drive Away^
Brookvale, NSW

Dealer used
6 hours ago

Overview of the BMW 3

Overview of the BMW 3

The 3 Series is German car maker BMW's signature model - a compact luxury passenger car that has existed in multiple generations since its 1975 debut.

Since 2014, the 3 Series name has applied to sedan and wagon body styles only, with coupe and convertible models adopting the 4 Series nomenclature.

The 3 Series has long been considered one of the most entertaining cars to drive in its class, and the flagship M3 performance variant is especially famous.

BMW 3 SERIES GENERATIONS (SINCE 1998)

1998-2006

2007-2012

2012-present

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol: 5.4-6.7 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 4.4-5.3 litres per 100km

3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbo petrol: 6.8-7.2 litres per 100km

3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbo diesel: 6.2-6.4 litres per 100km

Hybrid 2.1 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO BMW 3 SERIES

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: BMW 3 SERIES

As with any high-end European car, don't go near a 3-Series that doesn't have a fully stamped service history.

Biggest potential grief comes from variable valve-timing system (VANOS, in BMW-speak) which can fail due to internal leaks within the hydraulic circuitry. Some six-cylinder 3-Series were even recalled to fix this.

Beyond a leak, VANOS can fail through a lack of oil changes as dirt and grit blocks the tiny oilways that operate the system. If it fails, it can cost thousands to fix and the car won't be right without it.

Any 3-Series showing a 'check-engine' light on the dash is cause for concern.

Some early cars from this series had a brake booster that could fail, leaving the car with brakes but no assistance, requiring the driver to press harder on the brake pedal.

Again, this was the subject of a recall, so check that it's been done on affected cars.