Overview

The BMW 3 Series is the very core of the firm’s model range, to the extent that its strengths (and weaknesses) of this saloon car effectively define the brand. It combines affordable aspiration with premium interior quality and enough space for many uses, and underpins it all with the superb driving dynamics BMW has built its reputation upon.

Not that we should be surprised. The 3 Series name has been around since the 1970s, so the company has had plenty of time to perfect its formula. This generation of 3 Series has been on sale since 2019, and was refreshed during the summer of 2022, bringing updated looks and the very latest BMW infotainment system. We’ve driven the updated model here.

This BMW 3 Series review deals exclusively with the saloon; we have a separate BMW 3 Series Touring review for the estate version, a BMW M3 review for the high-performance variant and a BMW 330e review for the plug-in hybrid model. The closely-related 4 Series is available as a coupe, convertible and five-door fastback. In short, there’s a medium-sized BMW for everyone.

Key rivals are Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, as well as other, less-popular premium alternatives such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Jaguar XE – both great to drive, if flawed in other respects. Other choices include the Lexus IS, Peugeot 508 and Volkswagen Arteon, so the 3 Series has more competition than ever.

There is a range of engines that covers petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Power outputs in even the standard line-up range from 184hp through to 374hp (the M3 packs 510hp). Both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD – badged xDrive) are available, too.

That said, if you want an electric 3 Series you’re out of luck – although the BMW i4 is pretty close, and one of the best electric cars you can currently buy. The 3 Series facelift is shown by the grey car wearing the German number plates in this review – you can see pictures of the pre-facelift model in the image gallery.

Keep reading for our full review of the BMW 3 Series, covering everything from the interior and its practicality to performance and how much it costs to run.