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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

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

Top2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Steptronic M Sport Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 10088 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Great Looking Car with Excellent Features and Very Low Kms - This one will suit the most discerning buyer - Lexus Financial Services offers tailored Finance options to suit your needs, Enquire now for a quick quote - We want your Trade In - We have Multiple Pre Owned Vehicle facilities, always looking for stock - Interstate Transport can be arranged to your door anywhere in Australia (extra cost), Registration can be arranged for NSW or QLD, Other States will require self registration -

$72,895 Drive Away^
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
28/04/2024

Top2007 BMW 320i E90 Red 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 193660 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

441 Old Geelong Road, Hoppers Crossing, VIC, 3029(Mel Ref: 203 D11) PH: OR 03******1177.

$6,999 Drive Away^
Hoppers Crossing, VIC

Dealer used
19 hours ago

Top2021 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 65867 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This stunning current model 330i M-Sport is in pristine condition and in the best colour with 65867 kms.. Endless list of features including: Leather seating, Memory Seating, Apple Carplay, 360 Camera, Reverse Camera, Wireless charger, M-Sport Steering wheel, M-Sport 18 Inch alloys, Heads up display and so much more... Trade-ins are welcome and finance is available at great rates with fast approvals by our friendly team.

$52,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2015 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 316i M Sport Black 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 100286 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.6L

Welcome to our dealership, where the perfect car is just a phone call away! At our dealership conveniently located near the CBD, we're revolutionizing the way you buy vehicles. With our focus on providing exceptional service and competitive pricing, we're dedicated to ensuring your car-buying experience is seamless and satisfying. Our call center isn't just a point of contact; it's your gateway to a vast selection of top-quality vehicles. From small vehicles to luxury SUVs and everything in

$17,992 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
21 hours ago

Top2012 BMW 320i F30 320i Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 109505 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2012 BMW 320i Luxury Line Sedan 4dr Spts Auto 8sp 2.0T | 103270klms | Full Service History | Sunroof 5 Star ANCAP Rating Presents in a BLACK SAPPHIRE Exterior BLACK LEATHER Interior. FINE WOODGRAIN Inserts MEATLLIC FINISH Trim Rear Spoiler FEATURES: รขโ‚ฌยข Sunroof | Key-less Go | Bluetooth | Sat Navigation รขโ‚ฌยข Parking Sensor รขโ‚ฌโ€œ front & rear full body graphic รขโ‚ฌยข Sport , Sport, Comfort & EcoPro Modes | Stop Start When Idle รขโ‚ฌยข Media: Bluetooth Audio | CD | AUX | USB | Voice Rcognition รขโ‚ฌยข Multi

$17,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Croydon, NSW

Dealer used
21 hours ago

2020 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 30526 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

1 Owner- Only 30526Kms- 2 Factory Keys - Complete Authorized Digital BMW Service History- M Sport Package- Heated Seats- Sunroof- Black High Gloss Exterior Package- Driver Assistance Plus Package- Comfort Package- Heads Up Display- BMW Connected Services and more Finished in Mineral White Metallic complimented with a complete interior & exterior M Sport Package with Premium Black Leather seating with contrast stitching. A credit to it's previous owner this stunning example presents in show

$57,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
South Melbourne, VIC

Dealer used
28/04/2024

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

  • 10750 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

1 Owner- Only 10750Kms -Factory BMW Service Plan to 04/26 - M Sport Package- Heated Seats- Sunroof- Black High Gloss Exterior Package- Driver Assistance Plus Package- Comfort Package- Heads Up Display- BMW Connected Services and more Finished in Mineral Grey Metallic complimented with Oyster Vernasca Leather with contrast stitching and complete interior & exterior M Sport Package, this stunning example presents in basically as new condition and has been fastidiously maintained by it's prev

$62,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
South Melbourne, VIC

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2014 BMW 320d F30 MY0813 320d Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 81285 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This OUTSTANDING example 2014 BMW 3 Series F30 320d Sport Line Sedan has arrived at our Mercedes-Benz Dealership. The opportunity to own an extremely well looked after BMW 320d Sedan has arrived. This example presents in excellent condition & is well equipped with great usable features. Do not miss out! **Professional contactless trade-In appraisals available** Australian owned and operated, servicing the Northern and Inner Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne since 1961. As a 2023 Circle of Excell

$26,990 Drive Away^
Epping, VIC

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2017 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330i Sport Line White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 117876 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** PLEASE NOTE รขโ‚ฌโ€œ VEHICLE PRICED TO SELL รขโ‚ฌโ€œ PLEASE CONSIDER PRIOR TO ENQUIRY ** ** ENSURE ALL PHOTOS ARE LOOKED AT PRIOR TO ENQUIRY ** ** YES, WE TAKE ALL TRADE IN VEHICLES รขโ‚ฌโ€œ ONSITE FINANCE AVAILABLE ** ** MELBOURNE CBD LOCATION รขโ‚ฌโ€œ IF THIS IS TOO FAR AND YOU ARE READY TO PURCHASE WE WILL BRING THE CAR TO YOU^ ** ** 2017 BMW 330I SPORT LINE F30 LCI ** FINISHED IN WHITE - AUTOMATIC - LEATHER INTERIOR - SUNROOF - BLUETOOTH - DUAL CLIMATE CONTROL - BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS - AUTO HE

$26,990 Drive Away^
Southbank, VIC

Dealer used
28/04/2024

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

  • 40799 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Step into luxury with this stunning 2022 BMW 3 Series. Boasting a low 40,799 kilometres on the odometer, this vehicle promises a dynamic driving experience with robust performance. Its automatic transmission offers smooth gear changes, while the sleek exterior design is sure to turn heads on every journey. Inside, the car's premium features offer superior comfort and convenience, setting the benchmark for luxury sedans. This BMW 3 Series has been meticulously maintained, ensuring it's ready to

$58,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Myaree, WA

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2011 BMW 3 SERIES E90 320D 2.0DT! STEPTRONIC 6SP! 4 DOOR LIFESTYLE SEDAN!

  • 129245 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2011 BMW 3 SERIES E90 320D 2.0DT! STEPTRONIC 6SP! 4 DOOR LIFESTYLE SEDAN! Introducing the 2011 BMW 3 Series E90 320d Lifestyle Sedan: a perfect blend of luxury, performance and comfort. This black beauty, powered by a 2.0 litre diesel engine, offers an impressive sports automatic transmission and is fitted with four cylinders to ensure a smooth and powerful drive. The vehicle's sleek exterior is matched by a well-maintained interior, comfortably seating up to five passengers. This BMW 3 Seri

$15,300 Excl. Gov. Charges
Caboolture, QLD

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2013 BMW 3 Series F30 320d Sedan 4dr Spts Auto 8sp 2.0DT [MY14] Grey Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 42243 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We often get asked where are you located? You can now easily find Perths ONLY dealership under a HUGE digital billboard, East side of the Canning Bridge in Comoรขโ‚ฌยฆ. We want your vehicle, ask us for a price today! **Perth Based** Please genuine Enquiries only, as we are charged per lead*** Comos ONLY dedicated Car Dealership, scroll down to see our location in the fine print** Call 13 OO 251 283 to arrange a viewing now! We want your old car and even if we cannot help you with your new vehicl

$26,971 Excl. Gov. Charges
Como, WA

Dealer used
28/04/2024

1998 BMW 318i E46 Black 5 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 257568 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 1.9L

1998 BMW 318i, powered by a 1.9 litre 4 cylinder with a 5 speed manual gearbox. This vehicle was purchased from the seconded owner whom owned it for the last 20 years. He had fully replaced quite a lot of parts etc from the engine bay to the underside. There is a story with this BMW 318i which we are happy to answer any questions etc that you may have. A test drive is a must on this BMW 318i to appreciate the work that has been carried out throughout the vehicle. This vehicle has service h

$11,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Batemans Bay, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2010 BMW 3 Series E90 MY11 320d Steptronic Lifestyle Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 118234 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

+ SPECIAL ORDER MOONSTONE BMW INDIVIDUAL PAINTWORK + SUNROOF + XENONS + AMAZING CONDITION + FULL HISTORY + GREAT VALUE GERMAN LUXURY SEDAN + 2010 BMW 320d Saloon finished in Moonstone Silver Pearl Metallic Paintwork with a Beige Leather Interior Trim. + Great Condition & Low Mileage for Age + Fantastic Value European Luxury Motoring + Special Order BMW Individual Moonstone + Torquey Turbocharged Diesel Engine + Slick Sports Automatic Transmission + Electric Glass Sliding Sunroof + Xenon Head

$14,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wilston, QLD

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0814 320i High-Line M Sport Red 6 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 73329 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

easyauto123 - Your one stop shop for used cars in Brisbane. With over 500 used cars onsite, most under cover, you are assured of the largest selection of used cars in Brisbane. Located just 5 minutes from both Brisbane Airport and Brisbane CBD and just a short walk from Hendra train station, right next to the Gateway Motorway north of the Gateway Bridge. Can't make it in? One of our friendly team can even give you a tour of any car on site via video call, it's that easy! Looking to

$23,980 Drive Away^
Hendra, QLD

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2013 BMW 320d F30 MY1112 320d Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 140073 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

F30 BMW 320d MY 13.5 This car is as new, always garaged 17 services from BMW in the 1drive service history, sunroof, Navigation, Leather trim 2 keys, Bluetooth, Located 10 nin north of the harbor bridge. We offer Finance, Extended warranty, Delivery Australia wide.

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Artarmon, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2020 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 53057 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

***ONE PREVIOUS OWNER with FULL BMW SERVICE HISTORY*** *SUNROOF *LEATHER SEATS with HEATED SEATS *IMMACULATE CONDITION AND MUCH MORE, INQUIRE NOW TO TEST DRIVE THIS 2020 BMW 330i M SPORT TODAY. Our Volkswagen dealership is located in South Western Sydney just off the M5 exit. All our vehicles have undergone full workshop & safety checks. It will come with a free 2 year or 175,000 km customer care plan (conditions apply). Get the benefits of one-stop shopping with financ

$49,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Liverpool, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Steptronic M Sport Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 10088 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Great Looking Car with Excellent Features and Very Low Kms - This one will suit the most discerning buyer - Lexus Financial Services offers tailored Finance options to suit your needs, Enquire now for a quick quote - We want your Trade In - We have Multiple Pre Owned Vehicle facilities, always looking for stock - Interstate Transport can be arranged to your door anywhere in Australia (extra cost), Registration can be arranged for NSW or QLD, Other States will require self registration -

$72,895 Drive Away^
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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 ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ CLEARANCE SALE ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ ๐Ÿ BMW 320D AUTO DIESEL 4CYL 2.0L ONLY 139,000KMs ๐Ÿ ENGINE START/STOP BUTTON ๐Ÿ CRUISE CONTROL ๐Ÿ ODO: 139,000KMs ๐Ÿ LEATHER SEATS ๐Ÿ BLUETOOTH ๐Ÿ WARRANTY ๐Ÿ SUN ROOF ๐Ÿ AUX PORT ๐Ÿ DIESEL ๐Ÿ AUTO ๐Ÿ 4CYL ๐Ÿ RWC ๐Ÿ 2.0L ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ 6MONTH FRESH REGO AVAILABLE UPON YOUR REQUEST [$450 SURCHARGE] ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ THE CAR COMES WITH ROAD WORTHY CERTIFICATE ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ YEAR OF MANUFACTURE: 2006 COMPLIANCE: 2007 ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ THE CAR COMES WITH

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

Dealer used
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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
28/04/2024

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.