BMW 3 Series

Name: 2021 BMW 3 Series
Brand: BMW

EPA MPG: 28 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

EPA MPG: 28 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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Road Test

BMW took some of the best aspects of the last 3 Series—its sharp handling, responsive drivetrain, and comfortable seats—and ratcheted them up half a notch with the revamped 2019 model. But it makes even bigger strides in terms of fuel economy, infotainment features, and standard advanced safety systems. As such, it continues to be one of the best sports sedans available.

2021 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car

100

0 - 100

BMW 3 Series

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

Good

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

Good

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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BMW vs. Other New Car Brands

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

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Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

View all Owner Satisfaction

BMW vs. Other New Car Brands

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BMW vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

Good

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

See All Ratings & Specs

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$21,625 - $38,725

EPA MPG 28 mpg

Road test

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2021 BMW 3 Series Plug-in Hybrid

$ NA

20 miles

25 mpg

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EPA MPG 28 mpg

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EPA MPG 27 mpg

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EPA MPG 27 mpg

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EPA MPG 28 mpg

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Features & Specs

sedan

2 front, 3 rear

AWD, Rear

2-liter 4 plugin hybrid (288 hp)
2-liter 4 turbo (255 hp)
3-liter 6 turbo (473 hp)
3-liter 6 turbo (382 hp)
3-liter 6 turbo (503 hp)

8-speed automatic
6-speed manual

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In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties

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Model History

2019-Present

Current Generation

The redesigned 3 Series sedan brings new infotainment tech, standard advanced safety features, improved handling, and better fuel economy. The 330i is fitted with a punchy 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine paired with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available. Handling is nimble, but the ride is firm. Seat comfort and fit and finish are first rate. The iDrive infotainment system is logical to use once mastered. Forward collision warning and city-speed automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection are standard. All-speed AEB, BSW, ACC, and LCA are optional. The M340i, powered by a 3.0-liter turbo six-cylinder, and the 330e plug-in hybrid arrived in 2020. The infotainment system was updated in 2023 with a larger, curved display and touchscreen-based climate controls. 2024 was the last year for the plug-in hybrid version. A 2025 refresh brought styling changes, further infotainment updates, and revised suspension tuning.

2012-2018

2012 Redesign Year

The 2012 redesign is a bit larger, softer and a little less fun than previous versions. BMW even offers hybrid and diesel versions for those who want frugality with their fun. Within this generation, we think the best bet is a 328i with the Premium package. We'd also get the backup camera, which is included in the Driver Assistance package. If it snows where you live, you'll want xDrive all-wheel drive and the Cold Weather package. Dyed in the wool driving enthusiasts might prefer to keep things simple, going with a 320i with the manual transmission and the Sports package. This adds sports suspension and seats, along with the choice of summer or all-season performance tires. Throw in heated seats and the folding rear seat, skip leather and a moonroof. For 2017, BMW introduced new four-cylinder engines, changing the 328i to the 330i, and cars with navigation get the latest (and somewhat simplified) version of the iDrive infotainment system.

2006-2011

2006 Redesign Year

The 3 Series is almost universally considered the benchmark sports sedan. Offered with rear- or all-wheel drive, the model delivers pinpoint handling and a snug, but impeccably finished interior. Over the years it has been offered with a wide variety of four-, six-, and even V8 engines, as well as in sedan, convertible, and wagon formats. Regardless of the version you choose, the compliant ride, punchy engine and fun-to-drive formula remain. While this version of the 3 Series BMW offers more interior room than the previous version, responsive steering and handling make it as nimble as some sports cars. Track-monster M3 versions tilt the needle all the way toward sportiness.

1999-2005

1999 Redesign Year

The 3 Series is the car that defines a sports sedan, with rear- or all-wheel drive. The model delivers pinpoint handling and a snug, but impeccably finished interior. Over the years it has been offered with a wide variety of four-, six-, and even V8 engines, as well as in sedan, convertible, and wagon formats. Regardless of the version you choose, the compliant ride, punchy engine and fun-to-drive formula remain. While this version of the 3 Series BMW offers more interior room than the previous version, responsive steering and handling make it as nimble as some sports cars. Track-monster M3 versions tilt the needle all the way toward sportiness.