The four-door 3 Series sedan is most familiar, and among the most passenger friendly. The Sports Wagon adds substantial cargo space and utility. It's great for couples or families who often bring the dog, though it isn't available with the twin-turbo engine. The 328i and 335i Convertibles might be the sexiest 3s, with a fully automatic, one-button folding hardtop.

The 3 Series comprises a range of sedans, coupes, convertibles and wagons, with different engines, a wide variety of options, and a spread of $35,000 from the bottom to the top of the line. All models share mechanical components and similarly compact exterior dimensions. Differences lie in body style or exterior design, though the coupe and convertible seat four passengers while sedan and wagon seat five. We all like the top models, but we also recommend the less-expensive 328 models. They have as much power as most drivers will ever need, and they deliver the same inherent goodness as the 335s and most of the key features.įor 2009, BMW 3 Series gets a new version of that love/hate device known as BMW iDrive, the mouse-like interface the driver can use to adjust nearly everything inside the car. The sedans have been freshened with exterior styling updates and small interior refinements.įor 2009, BMW has introduced the 335d sedan, with a new-age diesel engine that's as clean as any of its gasoline counterparts. Despite its improved fuel economy, it retains the sporting character that has long defined the 3 Series line.īMW sells more manual transmissions in this class than any manufacturer, and that probably says something about the type of drivers choosing the 3. Even the optional automatic transmission is tuned for crisp, sporty shifting. These are rear-wheel-drive cars, though all-wheel drive is available. Handling response is sharp and precise, and braking capability is best in class. The base engine in the 328s, BMW's trademark 3.0-liter straight six, is more than powerful enough for brisk acceleration and a sinfully good time. The upgrade twin-turbo six in the 335i is one of the most viscerally satisfying engines in production. The BMW 3 Series cars accelerate, turn and stop with remarkable agility and balance, without seriously compromising comfort or common sense. The 3 Series sedans define sports sedan and remain the target for every luxury car brand from Acura to Volvo.

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