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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.
BMW3Sedan4 cylPremiumClear all

Top2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0413 316i Black 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 172067 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.6L

Introducing the exceptional 2013 BMW 316i Sedan, a prime example of impeccable German engineering, melded with outstanding style and comfort. This vehicle is a fantastic opportunity to own a prestigious BMW at an affordable price. Its sleek exterior, clothed in a timeless black, exudes elegance and power, making a statement wherever it travels. The car's condition is good, having been meticulously maintained, which is evident in its performance and appearance. The body of the car is a sedan, o

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kenwick, WA

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
17 hours ago

Top2013 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
28/04/2024

Top2020 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 55382 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Ready for instant Delivery - This pristine 320I M-Sport has done 55382 kms with full service, 2 keys and has a heap of features: Sun Roof, Full Leather With Heated And Cooled Seats, Front And Rear Sensors, Active Cornering Headlights, Apple Car Play, Reverse Camera, M Sport Alloys, Wireless Charger, Lane Departure and so much more. Trade-ins are welcome and finance is available at great rates with fast approvals by our friendly team.

$49,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
14 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

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

2022 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 4815 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This BMW 320i M Sport Sedan presented in Mineral Grey Metallic Paint is matched with 19" M Double-spoke Bicolour wheels and plush Black Vernasca Leather Upholstery. The features on this vehicle include: - M Sport - Electrical Glass Roof - Ambient light - Telephony with Wireless Charging - M Leather Steering Wheel - M High-Gloss Shadow Line - Sport Seats for Driver and Passenger - Electric Seats with Memory Function - DAB+ Tuner - HiFi Loudspeaker System - Automatic Air Conditioning - Live

$65,900 Drive Away^
Geelong, VIC

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0413 316i Blue 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 122376 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.6L

Looking for a sleek and stylish sedan that doesn't compromise on features? Look no further than this stunning 2013 BMW 3 Series F30 316i in a beautiful blue color with beige interior. With a long list of impressive features such as climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, rear air conditioning, and a leather steering wheel, this BMW is sure to impress even the most discerning buyer. Not only is this sedan packed with features, but it also offers a smooth and efficient driving experience with

$15,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Sutherland, NSW

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2007 BMW 3 20i EXECUTIVE

  • 131000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Bmw 320i - with Low Mileage! Comes with RWC & 3 MONTHS REGO FULL SERVICE HISTORY Comes with our exclusive offer! Only for a limited time, revel in: - 1 YEARS of FREE WARRANTY - 1 YEAR of FREE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE - Current RWC - First 3 MONTHS of REGISTRATION - all INCLUSIVE and courtesy of Ikigai Motors! Can provide warranty up-to 5 years ! Worried about the budget? Say no more! At Ikigai Motors, we're committed to making dreams a reality. Seize the opportunity with our FLEXIBLE FINAN

$8,000 Excl. Gov. Charges
Northcote, VIC

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2012 BMW 3 Series F30 328i Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 188208 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2012 BMW 328i SPORT F30 Sedan is a 2.0 Litre 4cyl Turbo Engine with an 8 Speed Automatic Transmission. Travelled ONLY 188,000kms with Full Service History. This 328i is finished in Black Sapphire - Metallic with a Black Leather Sports Interior. + 18" Alloy Wheels + Satellite Navigation + Park Distance Control with Rear Parking Camera + DAB Digital Radio + Keyless Start + Automatic Climate Control + Cruise Control + Automatic Headlights + Bluetooth

$13,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Mittagong, NSW

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2017 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330e Sport Line Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan Hybrid

  • 64220 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2017 BMW 330E M-SPORT SEDAN^^* FULL SERVICE HISTORY^* 2 SETS OF KEYS^* M-SPORT ALLOY WHEELS^* FULL LEATHER TRIM^* TRADE-INS WELCOME^* FANTASTIC FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE^^Contact our experienced team NOW to secure this SPECIAL INTERNET ONLY price!^^All our pre-owned vehicles come with a 3-year Extended Warranty*, National Roadside Assist** & a 100 Point Safety Inspection. (*Please ask for a full copy of our terms and conditions upon enquiry of this vehicle.)^^We have easy finance options availa

$36,646 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Steptronic Sport Collection Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

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

This BMW LCI 330i M Sport Sedan presented in Portimao Blue Metallic Paint is matched with 19" M Double-spoke Wheels and Black Vernasca Leather Upholstery. The features on this vehicle include: - M Sport Package - M Sport Brake - Electrical Glass Roof - Ambient light - Telephony with Wireless Charging - M leather Steering Wheel - M High-Gloss Shadow Line - Sport Seats for Driver and Passenger - Heated Front Seats - Electric Seats with Memory Function - M High-Gloss Shadow Line with Extende

$87,900 Drive Away^
Geelong, VIC

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330i M Sport Grey Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 78106 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Sheer driving pleasure redefined: The 2018 BMW 330i M Sport. Indulge your passion for performance with the 2018 BMW 330i M Sport. This exhilarating sedan delivers a captivating blend of athletic handling and exhilarating power. Experience the thrill of the M Sport package, featuring a dynamic design that matches the car's energetic spirit. Take control behind the wheel and feel the precision engineered for an unforgettable driving experience. Specs: M Sport package for enhanced performance an

$37,990 Drive Away^
Strathmore Heights, VIC

Dealer used
23 hours ago

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

  • 88365 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2013 BMW 328i F30 LUXURY SEDAN^^* FULL SERVICE HISTORY^* ELECTRIC SUN-ROOF^* 19' M-SPORT ALLOY WHEELS^* REVERSE CAMERA & SENSORS^* FULL SET OF KEYS^* TRADE-INS WELCOME^* FANTASTIC FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE^^Contact our experienced team NOW to secure this SPECIAL INTERNET ONLY price!^^All our pre-owned vehicles come with a 3-year Extended Warranty*, National Roadside Assist** & a 100 Point Safety Inspection. (*Please ask for a full copy of our terms and conditions upon enquiry of this vehicle.)^

$23,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2023 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

$89,900 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
24 hours ago

2016 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 320d Luxury Line Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 190756 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

BMW 320d Luxury Line F30 Lci Sedan Luxury, safety, economy with ultra frugal 2.0L turbo diesel engine. 2017 complied and first registered Very long list of features includes: Black Metallic Paint Black Leather Sport Automatic Transmission Luxury Line Package Park Assist Sunroof Front and Rear Parking Sensors Professional Navigation Bluetooth 19Alloys Electric memory seats All Highway kms Whether you are looking for Auto or Manual, Sedan, Wagon or Hatch, 4x4, Petrol or Diesel we can find t

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Somerton Park, SA

Dealer used
24 hours ago

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 320i Brown / Brown 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 84658 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

COME IN AND SEE HOW WE DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY! WE DONT SELL CARS, WE HELP PEOPLE BUY CARS! WE OFFER A FUN AND RELAXED NON-PUSHY BUYING EXPERIENCE! WE ARE NOT YOUR CONVENTIONAL, STERILE, ALL BUSINESS AND NO PERSONALITY CAR YARD OUR FRIENDLY TEAM ARE CUSTOMER FOCUSSED AND WE BOAST A FINE RANGE OF PRE-OWNED VEHICLES! WE DONT CLAIM TO BE THE BEST, BUT WE HAVENT FOUND ANYONE BETTER! PEACE OF MIND WEVE GOT YOU COVERED! All of our vehicles undergo an extensive history check and internal 130 Point

$21,248 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
24 hours ago

2012 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0812 328i Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 154237 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

***8 SPEED AUTOMATIC*** 4 CYLINDER*** RWD*** 154KMS*** LEATHER INTERIOR*** LOOKS AND DRIVES A TREAT*** 2.0L TURBO PETROL*** DON'T DELAY - TAKE IT TODAY*** *** CCC = BETTER CARS FOR LE$$ *** WE HAVE 200+ VEHICLES $4999 - $19999 *** ALL 200+ VEHICLES COME WITH A WARRANTY *** ALL 200+ VEHICLES ARE THE BEST VALUE ON THE MARKET *** ALL 200+ PRICES ARE DRIVE-AWAY NO MORE TO PAY - (VERY CONVENIENT)! *** FAST FINANCE ARRANGED ON-SITE OR OVER-THE-PHONE (CLEVER & PROFESSIO

$12,999 Drive Away^
Rocklea, QLD

Dealer used
24 hours ago

2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i Luxury Line Mineral White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 155162 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

09/2013 B.M.W 3 SERIES F30 MY0813 328I LUXURY LINE SEDAN, 2.0L Twin Turbo-Intercooled 8 Speed Sports Automatic, With Only 155xxxKm And Service History All In Book's With Manuals.......12V Socket(s) - Auxiliary, 19" Alloy Wheels, 9 Speaker Stereo, ABS (Antilock Brakes), Adjustable Steering Col. - Tilt & Reach, Air Cond. - Climate Control 2 Zone, Air Conditioning - Charcoal Filter (Odour Reducer), Air Conditioning - Rear, Air Conditioning - Sensor for Solar/Sun, Airbag - Driver, Airbag - Passenge

$21,990 Drive Away^
Pakenham, VIC

Dealer used
24 hours ago

2007 BMW 320d E90 Executive Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 160654 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2007 BMW 320 Diesel Automatic, navy blue with tan leather interior, factory alloy wheels with near new tyres, books and history, excellent condition throughout, a pleasure to drive and one of the most economical cars in its class. BMW luxury and style at an affordable price, Finance available t.a.p for around $60 a week

$8,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ascot Park, SA

Dealer used
24 hours ago

2010 BMW 320i E90 MY10 Lifestyle White 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 120152 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Impeccable 2010 BMW 320i Lifestyle Sedan - Automatic, Drives Like a Dream! Are you ready to elevate your driving experience? Look no further! We present to you a remarkable 2010 BMW 320i Lifestyle Sedan that's sure to turn heads and make every journey unforgettable. This elegant and well-maintained BMW is the epitome of style, comfort, and performance, and it's ready to be your next ride. **Year:** 2010 **Make:** BMW **Model:** 320i **Transmission:** Automatic **Condition:** Used, but in

$15,990 Drive Away^
Gympie, QLD

Dealer used
Yesterday

2015 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 316i Luxury Line Havannagrey 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 77142 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.6L

BMW 316i F30 MY15 Luxury Line Havana Metallic Luxury Sedan! optioned with BMW Luxury Line Package. With Beige Luxury Leather 2 keys and all the right options! Low Klms and in excellent condition-Has the right look simply stunning vehicle! We can provide service history and clear title certificate at the time of inspection. Plus this BMW Comes with 12 month extended warranty included. ***Vehicle Specifications*** - Transmission - 8 Speed Automatic - Drive - Rear wheel drive - Engin

$22,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Albion, QLD

Dealer used
Yesterday

2021 BMW 3 Series G20 330i M Sport Black Sapphire 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 47134 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Step into the world of luxury with this stunning 2021 BMW 3 Series. This sophisticated sedan has been meticulously maintained and has only 47134 kilometres on its odometer, a testament to its prime condition. It's finished in a sleek, alluring exterior, while the interior is adorned with high-quality leather seats, offering a comfortable and stylish driving experience. Experience advanced technology at your fingertips with features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing seamless c

$54,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Burswood, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

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

  • 199594 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. •

$8,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

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

  • 123393 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

*** JUST ARRIVED *** *** 2019 * 2019 *** *** BMW 330I * M Sport *** *** FULL BMW SERVICE HISTORY *** *** 2 KEYS *** *** GLOSS BLACK M Sport WHEELS *** *** We can assist with Transport interstate *** *** ALL TRADES WELCOME *** Our highly experienced finance team can arrange a no obligation Tailored Quotation! We are a well-renowned, highly respected company in the Australian automotive industry with a great reputation spanning over 15 years. We operate a

$37,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Croydon, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2011 BMW 3 Series E90 MY11 320i Steptronic Lifestyle Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 150841 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2011 BMW 320i - POPULAR MODEL - IF YOU'RE AFTER A CLEAN & GENUINE EXAMPLE OF A 3 SERIES THIS IS THE ONE FOR YOU! - PLENTY OF POWER - WOOD GRAIN INSERTS - WHAT A CAR - CLEAN INSIDE & OUT - FINANCE AVAILABLE - RWC INCLUDED - SERVICE HISTORY - M SPORT WHEELS - HARD TO FIND - YOU WILL BE IMPRESSED BY THE CONDITION - PUSH BUTTON START - BODYKIT - REVERSE SENSORS - DUAL ZONE CLIMATE CONTROL For further information, or to view this stunning vehicle, contact us now on******5544 where one

$11,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Laverton North, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2009 BMW 320d E90 MY09 Executive Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 244748 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Comes with a FREE official NSW Roadworthy Certificate. Full Vehicle History Check using Australian Government PPSR Register. All titles for this car are 100% clear Australia Wide, All States. * Never been a Repairable Write-Off * Never been on REVS or WOVR * Never had Storm, Flood or Hail Damage * No Finance Owing * No Debt or Money Owing * Has been checked if this car is reported as stolen, 100% Clear *** Information about our Car Dealership *** We accept Cash, Credit Cards, EFTPOS Cards,

Contact Dealer for Price
Granville, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 67330 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

| 2019 BMW| 320i M-Sport G20 | RWD Sedan | Mineral White - Metallic | ***Full BMW Servicing History*** __________________________________________________________ OPTION LIST: -M-Sport -Keyless Start -Digital Dashboard -Leather Electric Memory Seats -Digital Radio (DAB ) -Bluetooth -GPS Satellite Navigation -Heads-Up Display (HUD) -Front-End Collision Warning -Blind Spot Monitor -Lane Departure Warning -Heads-Up Display (HUD) -Wireless Charging Tray -Multi-Function Leather M-Sport Steering Whee

$42,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Balwyn, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2011 BMW 3 Series E90 MY11 320i Steptronic Lifestyle White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 112840 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Unleash your inner driver with this sleek and sophisticated 2011 BMW 3 Series E90 320i Lifestyle Sedan. With its white exterior and luxurious leather interior, this sedan is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Equipped with a range of features such as 17" alloy wheels, climate control air conditioning, and Bluetooth system, this BMW offers both style and functionality. The adjustable steering column, cruise control, and power windows make every drive a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Sa

$10,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Elderslie, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2012 BMW 3 28i 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

  • 110000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Work car, 2 new rear run flat tyres, service has been done, 12 months Rego expires in 13/05/2024. Ready to pick up .

$18,800
Winston Hills, NSW

Yesterday

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.