BMW 3-Series cars for sale

Frequently asked questions about the BMW 3-Series

• What is the BMW 3 Series?
• Arguably defining the compact executive car segment, for many consumers the BMW 3 Series is a car to aspire to own – and for other automotive manufacturers, it’s a model to aspire to emulate. Not that the 3 Series is not your sole choice in this arena, tackling direct rivals such as the Audi A4, Jaguar XE, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Volvo’s S60 and V60 twins. The year 2019 heralded its arrival in seventh-generation guise, with a range that’s still in its infancy, but it will doubtless become one of BMW’s bestselling models.

• Which versions of the BMW 3 Series are available?
• As the Mk7 version of the 3er only went on sale at the start of 2019, the range is currently modest in terms of its complexity, but it has already expanded to both of the two bodystyles that will be offered. First to arrive was the 3 Series Saloon, also known by its internal codename of G20, while the all-new, estate-bodied 3 Series Touring (the G21) reached in showrooms by autumn 2019. A replacement for the unusual hatchback-shaped BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo won't be happening.
  
  Engine choice is already broad with a suite of petrols, diesel, mild-hybrid diesels and plug-in hybrid petrols - the latter, badged 330e, is the most economical version on paper and is already sought after in large numbers by company car drivers. Diesels have been popular with the 3 Series since they first went on sale in Britain in 1993, so expect to see plenty of those on the roads, too. A fully-electric 3 Series is also likely during this model’s lifecycle.

• What is the BMW M3?
• Since the Mk2 3 Series, the performance pinnacle of the range has been badged BMW M3, the most-recent iteration being the F80 derivative of the sixth-generation 3 Series Saloon. While the first M3 was a left-hand drive-only road racer, more recent generations have become softer-yet-quicker, which wins over some fans, but loses others. As the sixth-generation 3 Series was not available as a two-door – those models were marketed as the 4 Series from 2013 – the outgoing M3 was the first to only be sold as a four-door car. And yes, an all-new M3 based on the G20-generation will arrive in 2020.

• Is the BMW 3 Series good to drive?
• With a double-wishbone suspension arrangement at the front and a multi-link design at the rear, combined with rear-wheel drive on most model (xDrive four-wheel is also available), the recipe is there for the 3 Series to be an enjoyable drive. If anything, the busyness experienced behind the wheel feels more reminiscent of older generations than the most recent one – it’s a sporty saloon that keeps its driver engaged, that’s firmer-riding and more playful as you press-on.

• Should I buy a BMW 3 Series?
• Whether you’re buying outright or financing a 3 Series on a PCH or PCP deal, it’s not exactly cheap, but prices are comparable with similar specification Audi A4s and Mercedes C-Classes. Whichever model you choose you're guaranteed the kind of driving pleasure few other brands can touch. Just be careful not to go wild with the options list.