BMW 3-Series Coupe running costs and reliability

2006 - 2013 (change model)

Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by Parkers Experts Published: 6 June 2019 Updated: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 30 - 60 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

The 3 Series Coupe isn’t a cheap car, but it represents decent value – especially when you consider how well equipped the SE model is. It will also hold its value extremely well and the majority of the engines are very efficient considering their sizes and power outputs. You’re expected to pay extra for floor mats though and for full map satellite navigation you have to part with nearly £2000, when you could buy a portable system for a fraction of that.

The 3 Series Coupe performs well on the eco front and thanks to BMWs EfficientDynamics technology all the engines are efficient – even the high performance models. The most eco-friendly however is the 320d – it emits just 128g/km of CO2 and is capable of 59mpg.

BMW reliability is typically better than average, and although there are many new components in the 3 Series Coupe, compared with the Saloon, no problems were been reported.

BMW 3 Series Coupe recalls

In May 2018 BMW announced that a number of petrol- and diesel-engined 3 Series Coupe models would be subjected to a recall.

The cause was an electrical fault that could cause the engine to cut out while the car was still moving.

It’s imperative that if you’re considering buying a 3 Series Coupe built between March 2007 and August 2011 that you check with a BMW dealer to establish whether the work to cure the problem has been carried out.