Used BMW 3 Series cars for sale

Engines and transmissions

BMW manufactures petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains for the newest 3 Series lineup, with the option of rear- or all-wheel drive and a sport automatic transmission.

Petrol

• 320i produces 181bhp for a 0-62 mph time of 7.4 seconds and fuel economy of 43.5mpg.
• 330e is a plug-in hybrid providing 252bhp and an all-electric range of up to 32 miles.
• 340i is the range-topping 326bhp variant, producing a 0-62mph time of 4.4 seconds.

Diesel

• 320d outputs 190bhp for a 0-62 mph time of 6.9 seconds and efficiency of 57.6mpg.
• 340d produces 335bhp and can hit 62mph in 4.6 seconds.

Practicality

The 3 Series is extremely practical with its exceptional power, spacious cabin and functionality.

Interior space

• Adjustable driver's seat provides great support and comfort.
• Wide-opening rear doors give access to the spacious back seat.
• Multiple ISOFIX points in the back for child seats.

Boot space

• 480-litre boot compares well with the Audi A4 and is larger than the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
• 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats create a customisable storage area.
• Tie-down hooks, storage nets and a 12-volt socket are included in the boot.

Bodystyles

• Four-door saloon is a versatile option for executive travel or family driving.
• Five-door estate, known as the Touring, is available with newer models.
• Previously available coupé, convertible and hatchback models are part of the 3 Series.

Safety

• Perfect five-star rating from Euro NCAP.
• 97% adult occupancy rating tops the charts.
• Standard safety kit includes Active Guard Plus, which provides emergency automated braking for cyclists and pedestrians.

Technology

• All-new graphics installed with the digital instrument panel.
• Voice-controlled infotainment system allows for hands-free use.
• Available wireless phone charger keeps devices ready.

Generations

First introduced in 1975 to replace the 02 Series, the 3 Series is approaching five decades on the road. Originally, it only came as a two-door saloon, but eventually, the range grew to include a saloon, estate, convertible and coupé. Now in its seventh generation, BMW continues to equip the 3 Series with the latest technologies and features to keep it at the top of its segment.

Seventh Generation G20 (2019-present)

With the release of the seventh generation, BMW strove to update its style to match models from Mercedes-Benz and Audi, including a larger kidney grille and narrower headlights. Much of the older design was replaced with updated materials and accents.

In a 2022 refresh, BMW added a 12.3-inch digital instrument display flush against the iDrive widescreen console. Metal buttons were included to give the cabin more class, and ambient lighting was added.

Sixth Generation F30 (2012-2018)

With the release of the sixth generation, BMW focused heavily on offering new powertrains. The most important may have been the 3.0-litre straight-six putting, out 326bhp, which was different from what other competitors were offering at the time.

The facelift included LED running lights and some updates to the nose. Inside the cabin, there were new decorative touches, soft-touch materials and chrome detailing.

Fifth Generation E90 (2005-2015)

The E90 came with some significant updates at the time. Models were slightly bigger and heavier than before, which changed some of the driving dynamics.

BMW also offered several powertrains, including punchy four-cylinder diesel engines. Both manual and automatic transmissions were popular, though it's the auto that is the most readily available on the used market.