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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.
BMW3Fixed PriceAir conditioning?: YesTop AdsClear all

Top2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 320i Luxury Line White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 55028 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

**** FIXED PRICE SALE *** **** NO MORE REUCTIONS **** ** EXTENDED 12,36,60 MONTHS WARRANTY AVAILABLE ** We ensure all vehicles are at the high standards and serviced prior being sold. *TRADE INS WELCOME. *ADMINISTRATION FEE OF $395 APPLIES ON ALL PURCHASES. *BUYING AND SELLING VEHICLES ON SIGHT. *SUNROOF* Introducing the sleek and stylish 2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 320i Luxury Line Sedan, perfect for those looking for a luxu

$33,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Claremont Meadows, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2007 BMW 320i E90 Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 181866 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 $55P/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 Book** **Only travelled a super low 181,000 Ks!!** Credit to the previous owner!**Don't miss out on this one!** -Leather Trim -Sun Roof -Dual

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

Dealer used
28/04/2024

Top2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 340i M Sport Silver Automatic Sedan

  • 218963 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2018 BMW 340 M Sport 2.0L Auto $29995 218 963kms Full Service History Rego until 31 July 2024 Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1069)

$29,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
17 hours ago

Top2009 BMW 323i E91 323i Grey Automatic Wagon

  • 129588 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2009 BMW 323i 2.5L Auto $14995 129 588kms Full Service History Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1056)

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
17 hours ago

Top2009 BMW 325i E92 325i Grey Automatic Coupe

  • 162469 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2009 BMW 325i 2.5L Auto $14995 162 469kms Full Service History Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1112)

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
17 hours ago

Top2005 BMW 330Ci E46 330Ci Black Automatic Convertible

  • 196215 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2005 BMW 330 Ci 3.0L Auto $12995 196 215kms Full Service History Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1070)

$12,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2011 BMW 3 Series E93 MY11 320d Steptronic Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible

  • 201984 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

BMW 320d CONVERTIBELE E93 2.0DT TURBO DIESEL 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ** FAST FINANCE APPROVAL ** WARRANTY & TRADE IN OPTIONS T's & C's APPLY ** Test Drive Today ** Perth Auto Centre: All Hours Inquiries ** Stunning Condition ** Must See to Fully Appreciate ** Hard to find Turbo Diesel BMW 320 Convertible in Pristine Condition ** Featuring German Engineering at its Best ** Come Down and Test Drive Today ** Ultimate Sporty Coupe with Amaizing Power & Fuel Economy ** Comfort a

$13,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2016 BMW 330i F30 LCI M Sport White 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 55261 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

'Best rate promise for your car loan' Buy with confidence that you are receiving the lowest interest rates for your purchase. If you find a cheaper rate, let us know and we will beat it. If we can't, we will contribute $300 towards your purchase* Please quote Stock ID on phone: 10923275152768 Look at the details of this car and 1000s of more cars on our website- https://www.cars24.com/au/buy-used-Bmw-3-car-10923275152768/?referrer_source=autotrader&tdf=true 7 DAY 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

$35,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Laverton North, VIC

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2007 BMW 335i E93 Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Convertible

  • 193177 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIAN WHOLESALE OUTLET. 6102. TRADE-INS WELCOME. WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO ENQUIRE ON THIS VEHICLE CALL FOR FINANCE OPTIONS CONTACT AARON ON CLICK HERE TO REGIESTER YOUR FINANCE ENQUIRY used cars, cheap cars, automatic, manual, fuel efficient, cheap, reliable, private, dealer, ute, sedan, hatch, diesel, petrol, small, service history,

$14,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2012 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
4 hours ago

2018 BMW 3 30i SPORT LINE

  • 59605 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2018 BMW 3 SERIES 330I SPORT LINE F30 LCI Looking for a luxurious, high-performance sedan that doesn't break the bank? Look no further than this BMW 330i Edition MSport with optional Shadow Package. With a turbocharged engine, adaptive damping control, and a stunning orange exterior, this BMW offers fantastic value for money at just $29,999.00. Equipped with a host of premium features like ambient interior lighting, a head-up display, and a surround camera system, you'll feel like you're driv

$29,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2002 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2002 320i Touring Steptronic Grey 5 Speed Automatic Wagon

  • 285525 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.2L

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. •

$5,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2007 BMW 3 Series 323i E90

  • 69147 km
  • Other
  • Auto

Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, lend me your ears - or eyes, rather, as I introduce to you the embodiment of style, sophistication, and sass - the 2007 BMW 3 Series 323i E90! This isn't just a car, folks, it's a statement. A statement that says, ''Hey world, I've arrived and I've got impeccable taste!'' Now, I'm sure you've heard of black beauty, but have you ever seen a black beauty? No, not the horse. I'm talking about this stunning, sleek, and suave sedan that's got more curves than a

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

Dealer used
8 hours ago

2011 BMW 320i E90 MY11 Lifestyle White 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 222793 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2011 BMW 320I !! $9999 FEATURES AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, AIR CON, EASY PARK POWER STEERING, LEATHER INTERIOR, MAG WHEELS, TINTED WINDOWS AND MORE!! COMES WITH 12 MONTH PARTS AND LABOUR WARRANTY FOR ONLY $9999.00!! CALL (08) ****2999 TODAY!! WANGARA USED CAR CENTRE "YOU WON'T BUY BETTER".

$9,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0814 328i High-Line Luxury Line Silver 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 166149 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

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
9 hours ago

2012 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: • Sunroof | Key-less Go | Bluetooth | Sat Navigation • Parking Sensor – front & rear full body graphic • Sport , Sport, Comfort & EcoPro Modes | Stop Start When Idle • Media: Bluetooth Audio | CD | AUX | USB | Voice Rcognition • Multi

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

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2008 BMW 3 Series E93 MY08 335i Steptronic Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible

  • 123185 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

**Discover the Ultimate Driving Machine - The 2008 BMW 3 Series E93 MY08 335i Convertible** A testament to BMWs engineering prowess, this used 2008 BMW 3 Series E93 MY08 335i Convertible, with a mere 123,000 km mileage, delivers an impeccable blend of performance, luxury, and style. Ready to grace the roads once again, this vehicle is a testament to BMWs commitment to unrivalled driving pleasure. Here are the **top 10 features** that set this BMW apart: 1. **3.0 Twin Turbo Engine:** Experien

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Liverpool, NSW

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2015 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330i M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 99150 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

**** FIXED PRICE SALE *** **** NO MORE REUCTIONS **** ** EXTENDED 12,36,60 MONTHS WARRANTY AVAILABLE ** We ensure all vehicles are at the high standards and serviced prior being sold. *TRADE INS WELCOME. *ADMINISTRATION FEE OF $395 APPLIES ON ALL PURCHASES. *BUYING AND SELLING VEHICLES ON SIGHT. ** SUNROOF** Looking for a luxurious and stylish sedan that can offer you unparalleled performance and comfort? Look no further th

$28,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Claremont Meadows, NSW

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2015 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
10 hours ago

2009 BMW 3 Series E90 MY10 323i Steptronic Silver, Chrome 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 156010 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

BMW 323i E90 SEDAN 2.5L 6 CYLINDER ENGINE ** 6 SPEED STEPTRONIC AUTOMATIC ** FAST FINANCE APPROVALS T's & C's APPLY - WARRANTY & TRADE IN OPTIONS ** Test Drive Today ** Perth Auto Centre: All Hours Inquiries ** Low 131,000 Kms ** Pristine Condition ** Low 156,000 kms ** Perth Auto Centre Present This Rare Find ** Highly Sought-after BMW 323i Straight 6 Cylinder Motor with 6 Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission ** This is German Engineering at Its Finest ** This a Sought after C

$11,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330i Luxury Line Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 156081 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Buying a car just got so much Easier as we offer: Great Finance Packages Over the phone approvals Top trade-in value 1-5 Years Extended Warranty Roadside Assistance Guaranteed Clear Title Australia-wide transport Bad Credit? Pensioner? Ex Bankrupt? The Bank said NO? We Can Help with Easy Finance available so give us a chance... Whether you are looking for Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 We can make it happen with a

$27,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2003 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2002 318i Steptronic Silver 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 180117 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2003 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2002 318i Steptronic Silver 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

$6,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2001 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2001 325Ci Steptronic Silver 5 Speed Sports Automatic Coupe

  • 166580 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

Experience the fusion of luxury and performance with this silver 2013 BMW 3 Series E46 328i Sedan. Powered by an automatic transmission, this sleek vehicle runs on unleaded fuel and boasts a robust 184,000 Kms on the odometer. THIS CAR COMES WITH A BUNCH OF EXTRAS THAT INCLUDE, CLEAN PPSR! HUSSLA RIMS! LEATHER SEATS! THIGH EXTENSION! AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION! MULTIFUNCTION STEERING WHEEL! LOW KMS! YES WE HAVE FINANCE! YES WE ACCEPT TRADE INS! YES WE HAVE 1-5 YEAR WARRANTY OPTIONS! CALL 0861866

$9,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kenwick, WA

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2015 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 320i M Sport Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 95961 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

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

$26,898 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
11 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
12 hours ago

2016 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 318i Luxury Line Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 148900 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 3 cyl 1.5L

Experience the epitome of luxury and style with this 2016 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 318i Luxury Line Sedan. Coated in a sleek grey exterior, this car's elegance is further amplified by its excellent condition and a well-maintained odometer reading of 148,900 kms. THIS CAR COMES WITH A BUNCH OF EXTRAS THAT INCLUDE, CLEAN PPSR! BLINDSIDE MONITORING! HEAD UP DISPLAY! FULL BMW SERVICE HISTORY (14 STAMPS)! 1 OWNER FROM NEW! CREME LEATHER SEATS! NAVIGATION! BLUETOOTH! BEAUTIFUL CAR TO DRIVE AND OWN! YE

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kenwick, WA

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 328i Sport Line Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 132218 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

BMW 328iSport Package F30 MY14 Sedan in Dark Grey Mica M Sport package turbo 8 speed sports automatic! Comes with a 12 month extended warranty included Black dakota leather sport Interior trim. Innovations Package 328i Sport Package In excellent condition and all the right options. Up to date service history We can provide service history and clear title certificate at the time of inspection. ***Vehicle Specifications*** - Transmission - 8 Speed Sports Automatic - Drive - Rear

$21,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Albion, QLD

Dealer used
12 hours ago

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

  • 87872 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
12 hours ago

2004 BMW 330Ci E46 Blue 5 Speed Automatic Steptronic Convertible

  • 128966 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2004 BMW 330Ci AUTOMATIC CONVERTIBLE!! $14999.00 HAS ONLY TRAVELLED A LOW 128966 KLM SINCE NEW, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, AIR CON, POWER WINDOWS, FULL LEATHER INTERIOR, CRUISE CONTROL, ABS BRAKES AND MORE!! YOU WON'T BUY BETTER!! ONLY $14999.00 WITH 12 MONTH PARTS AND LABOUR WARRANTY!! CALL (08) ****2999 NOW!! WANGARA USED CAR CENTRE 7B PEMBROKE RD, WANGARA 6065.

$14,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
12 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
12 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.