Summary
The BMW 3 Series is a medium-sized saloon and estate model, and has long been considered the benchmark for the compact executive saloon class. The latest generation was unveiled in late 2018 and went on sale in the UK in early 2019.
The estate (known as Touring) models were launched several months after the saloon versions. Additionally, the high-performance M3 saloon arrived in the UK in early 2021, joined by a Touring version in 2023.
The 3 Series received a mid-life facelift in summer 2022, with further updates in summer 2024. This was most noticeable inside the cabin, which received much larger display screens for both the driver and in the central dashboard.
The BMW 3 Series has received very high scores from the UK media. As with previous generations, particular praise has been directed at the way the BMW 3 Series drives compared to its rivals. The quality and design of the interior are better than previous models, although other cars are just as good or better.
Reliability seems to be a mixed bag for the BMW 3 Series. In the 2021 What Car? reliability survey, the 3 Series finished both third (petrol engines) and fourth (diesel engines) out of 17 cars in the executive car class. However, exclusive data provided to us by MotorEasy (see below) suggests otherwise, with the 3 Series scoring well below average for reliability. In the 2022 What Car? reliability survey, the 3 Series diesel ranked dead last in the executive car class.
As of October 2024, the BMW 3 Series holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 74%. It has an excellent safety score, low CO2 emissions and has received many positive media reviews, but a poor reliability rating pulls the overall score down below the best new cars on the market.
3 Series highlights
- Still the best car in its class to drive
- Interior a significant improvement
- Petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options available
- Cabin space now a match for rivals
3 Series lowlights
- Battery range on older plug-in hybrid models not great
- Ride firm on models with sports suspension
- Digital display not as good as those on rivals on pre-facelift cars
Key specifications
Body style: Mid-sized saloon and estate
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £40,220 on-road
Launched: Winter 2018/19
Last updated: Summer 2024
Replacement due: 2025/26
Image gallery
Media reviews
Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
The Car Expert
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid 330e xDrive M Sport Touring
Score: 8.1 / 10
“As plug-in hybrids go, the BMW 330e is a good one. It starts off with the major advantage of the 3 Series itself, a car that has dominated the wish lists of particularly company drivers for very many years. The car is enjoyable to drive, although most owners will likely rate the experience and the tax savings more highly than the little bit they are doing towards encouraging greener motoring.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel auto 330d M Sport Touring
“Based on our initial launch drive, the BMW 3 Series Touring comes perilously close to being all the car you could ever need.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel auto 320d Sport saloon
“Both inside and out, the 3 Series feels like the rounded and accomplished product that it’s always been, and there’s little doubt this latest model will be just as successful as the one it replaces.”
Read review
Auto Express
Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 10 / 10
“The BMW 3 Series offers the perfect blend of performance, driving dynamics, low running costs, technology and improved refinement.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330e PHEV
Score: 9 / 10
“The facelifted BMW 330e PHEV wouldn’t be our pick of the 3 Series range, but it’s still a top business choice.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The sixth-generation BMW 3 Series is a thoroughly polished product that’s great to drive, and now has one of the best infotainment setups in its class. While the 330e plug-in hybrid is likely the top pick for company car drivers, the M340i xDrive is seriously fast and a better all-rounder than the M4 for many owners.” (Andy Goodwin)
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic 320d Touring
Score: 9 / 10
“Upgrades to the BMW 3 Series Touring’s cabin have added a welcome boost in technology and interior quality to its excellent driving dynamics. It’s as practical as many people will ever need, and this 320d would be a terrific choice for anyone after a spacious, comfortable long-distance cruiser. “
Read review
Model reviewed: Touring range review
Score: 10 / 10
“Great to drive, cheap to run and filled with high-tech kit – this is Bavaria at its best.”
Read review
Model reviewed: M340i xDrive
Score: 8 / 10
“This is, without a doubt, a very fast car with trademark BMW six-cylinder prowess – and a meticulously engineered hot 3 Series at the same time.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330e plug-in hybrid
Score: 9 / 10
“Provided you have regular access to a charge point, it’s a high quality plug-in hybrid that could easily match a 320d for rock-bottom running costs. For private buyers it may even be the 3 Series to go for if you have a garage space or driveway to recharge it from every evening.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 10 / 10
“Still the driver’s choice in this family-oriented segment, nothing can match the BMW 3 Series Touring from behind the wheel.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 320d M Sport with Sport automatic
Score: 10 / 10
“We followed the journey of the BMW 3 Series as it made its way to production, and now it’s here we’re even more sure that it’s the best car in its class.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330e plug-in hybrid
Score: 9 / 10
“Even given the inevitable price premium, the 330e is likely to prove an affordable alternative to a 320d for lower-mileage business users. It’s not just a convincing plug-in; it could be one of the best members of the new 3 Series family.”
Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Saloon range (facelift)
Score: 8 / 10
“Sporty, stylish and updated with the latest tech, the BMW 3 Series remains the benchmark premium saloon for those who enjoy their driving.” (Dan Trent)
Read review
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“Arguably a benchmark for the sector, the BMW 3 Series has maintained its reputation for sporty handling and fine dynamics. There are engines to suit every need and a huge amount of technology to support your driving, even if the best of it remains on the options list or confined to fancier trim levels.”
Read review
Score: 7.8 / 10
“It’s worth test-driving as close a model as possible to the one you’re considering, as wheel sizes and suspension set-ups have a large effect on how comfortable the 3 Series is. Some will find it too firm over bad surfaces for their liking.”
Read review
Autocar
Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic M340i xDrive
Score: 9 / 10
The BMW 3 Series remains as ruthlessly brilliant as ever. We would have given the M340i the full five stars were it not for previously documented qualms over ride comfort in the UK that we can’t yet confirm either way.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid 330e saloon
Score: 9 / 10
“Unlike so many of its electrified rivals, this car hides the complexity of powertrain so well. It continues to handle like a powerful, poised, rear-driven sports saloon no matter how hard you care to push it. It has plenty of sporting character, and can be as quick across the ground as almost any other 3 Series, and as engrossing to drive, too, in its own way.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Touring (estate) range
Score: 9 / 10
“For those who can afford it, the BMW 330d remains an open and shut case. After all, you’ll be buying what is probably the most multi-talented 3 Series currently on sale. But it’s a lamentable shame that current tax rules have come down so hard on such an undeserving target.”
Read review
Model reviewed: M340i xDrive
Score: 8 / 10
“Impresses with its cabin sophistication, punchy performance and engaging (if not overly lively) handling.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 320d xDrive M Sport Touring
Score: 9 / 10
“In Touring guise, the 320d continues to combine dynamism with practicality, performance and frugality better than any rival.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330d xDrive Touring
Score: 9 / 10
“The 3 Series Touring offers a largely familiar driving experience to the 3 Series saloon, with only slight differences in handling that are noticed most prominently in the corners.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330d M Sport
Score: 9 / 10
“The BMW 330d is the latest version of a fast, frugal compact executive saloon that needs little introduction.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 318d Sport auto
Score: 8 / 10
“The 318d uses a detuned version of the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine found in the 320d, delivering 40bhp less at 148bhp and 59lb ft less torque at 236lb ft, paired with an excellent eight-speed automatic gearbox.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 10 / 10
“BMW’s one-time default-choice exec hits even greater heights.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330i M Sport
Score: 10 / 10
“The 330i M Sport is fast, poised and engaging to drive; pleasant, upmarket, refined and practical; advanced and well-equipped – and yet competitively priced and realistically fuel-efficient.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 320d M Sport
Score: 9 / 10
“Arguably the most important model in the new 3 Series line-up proves diesel, and the Ultimate Driving Machine, are alive and well.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330e plug-in hybrid
Score: 9 / 10
“If the numbers fit your routine even vaguely, and you have the ability to charge the car, the question that needs asking is not whether this upcoming plug-in hybrid saloon should be on your shortlist but why it isn’t sitting at the top.”
Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: 330e
Score: 8 / 10
“If you can’t go full EV, the BMW 330e remains the benchmark by which other rivals should be judged.” (Martyn Collins)
Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Saloon range (2022 update)
Score: 8 / 10
“If you’re worried BMW’s spoiled its success story of a saloon with this latest update, rest easy. The 3 Series is still the go-to baby executive for those looking for a sharper driving experience, and the technology refresh keeps it up to date with Merc’s latest C-Class.” (Jake Groves)
Read review
Model reviewed: Estate range overview (2022 update)
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s still arguably all the car you could ever need. While the BMW 3 Series Touring isn’t perfect, it’s immensely practical for its size, well-built and still steers like a BMW should do: i.e. with a degree of sharpness and excitement. Regardless of what engine you pick, you’ll benefit from a handsome baby executive estate.” (Jake Groves)
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid 330e saloon
Score: 8 / 10
“The word that springs most readily to mind here is ‘impressive’ – BMW’s big-selling plug-in hybrid certainly doesn’t fall down as a box-ticking exercise, with plentiful performance, extended electric range and some clever tricks.” (CJ Hubbard)
Read review
Model reviewed: 330d xDrive Touring
Score: 8 / 10
“As a driver’s tool it blows away most opposition in this sector, it’ll satisfy any tech fetish, and the practicality improvements reaffirm that this estate is much more than just a pretty face.”
Read review
Score: 8 / 10
“This 3-series sets a new dynamic benchmark for the executive saloon market, as well as featuring the very latest of BMW’s tech, and a promising, if not yet complete, range of engines and transmissions.”
Read review
Car Keys
Model reviewed: Range overview (facelift)
Score: 10 / 10
“The BMW 3 Series remains a car that’s truly at the top of its game, with few rivals able to get close to its combination of quality and sportiness. With its huge range of engines and the choice of two bodystyles, it feels like there’s a 3 Series to suit all. The addition of its new more modern interior has only elevated it further and ensured the 3 Series remains at the top of this class.” (Ted Welford)
Read review
Model reviewed: 330e
Score: 9 / 10
“The 330e is likely to be another hit for BMW, as more drivers seek to make the switch to electrified motoring and reduce their running costs. The biggest positive about this car is that there are very few downsides next to the normal 3 Series.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic estate 330d Touring
Score: 10 / 10
“With the saloon being such a well-praised model, it was almost inevitable that the Touring model would be just as appealing. In 330d form, it could be all the car most will ever need. It’s fast, relatively cheap to run, practical, comfortable – this list could go on.”
Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: 330e plug-in hybrid saloon
Score: 8.6 / 10
“The BMW 330e plug-in hybrid is not only cheap to run, it’s also as good to drive as any other 3 Series.” (Andy Goodwin)
Read review
Model reviewed: Facelifted estate range
Score: 8.8 / 10
“The BMW 3 Series Touring is practical, easy to live with and great to drive.” (Andy Goodwin)
Read review
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8.8 / 10
“Brilliant BMW 3 Series is the pace-setter for executive saloon handling and performance.” (Andy Goodwin)
Read review
Carwow
Model reviewed: Touring estate range
Score: 9 / 10
“The BMW 3 Series Touring goes to show that big, boxy estate cars can still be good fun to drive. It’s a shame that not every smartphone can connect to its super-slick infotainment, though.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 9 / 10
“The new BMW 3 Series is a posh saloon that’s great for the family but also loads of fun to drive. Its latest look might not be to your taste though and some desirable options cost extra.”
Read review
Company Car Today
Model reviewed: BMW 330e Touring PHEV
“This BMW 330e Touring PHEV offers useful practicality to match the tax and fuel efficiency (when charged as often as possible), and the performance.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol/electric automatic plug-in hybrid 330e M Sport
“The new 330e will prove more popular than ever in the current tax regime, and rightly so when it’s as good, and as cost-effective versus a 320d, as the new car is. Just make sure that fleet policies incentivise or require the car to be charged and used on electric mode as much as possible.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic 318d Sport
“In isolation, the 318d is another winner of a BMW 3 Series, and there’s very little to criticise. Just make sure you never drive a 320d and you won’t know what you’re missing.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8.5 / 10
“The BMW 3 Series makes improvements in the key areas that were required without losing the driver and badge appeal that put it at the top of the class.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic 320d xDrive M Sport saloon
“The new BMW 3 Series builds on the previous car’s strong points and adds more tech, better interior quality and increased efficiency to keep it at the forefront of the compact executive sector.”
Read review
Daily Mail
“Despite all the sensible stuff, the 3 Series remains a sprightly engaging drive.”
Read review
Daily Mirror
Model reviewed: 320d M Sport
“Apart from its dramatic looks the new car isn’t a massive leap forward and that’s very much down to the fact that the previous car was very good and had every gadget and accessory you’d need. That the old model is smaller actually makes it more desirable to me. Bigger isn’t always better.”
Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid 330e
Score: 8.5 / 10
“The plug-in hybrid BMW 3 Series is the best compact executive car you can buy. That’s regardless of whether you’re looking for super-cheap running costs, company car tax, or both.”
Read review
Evo
Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8 / 10
“Entertaining manners, strong engines, good build quality and a premium image that shows no sign of being significantly diluted even when the 3-series is now such as ubiquitous part of the motoring landscape.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 320d M Sport
Score: 8 / 10
“New BMW 3-series has more of everything, but gives away a little of its satisfying precision in the process.”
Read review
Green Car Guide
Model reviewed: 330e Touring xDrive M Sport
Score: 10 / 10
“Unlike a two-tonne plug-in hybrid SUV, the BMW 330e Touring is actually very efficient on a long journey. It’s also sporty, comfortable, quiet, luxurious and practical. With xDrive all-wheel drive, it’s also very capable in all weathers (especially with the right tyres).”
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol plug-in hybrid automatic saloon 330e M Sport
Score: 10 / 10
“The BMW 330e plug-in hybrid delivers the rear-wheel drive handling of a touring car, the ride comfort of a BMW 5 Series, the performance of a sports car, and the zero emission driving ability of an electric car. What’s not to like?”
Read review
Model reviewed: 320d M Sport
Score: 9 / 10
“The industry is moving towards electric cars, but the BMW 320d shows that diesel isn’t dead yet. If you cover lots of miles up and down the UK’s motorways, then the 320d has to be one of the most efficient ways to do that. It’s also comfortable, it has rewarding handling, the infomedia and satnav systems are excellent, and there really are very few faults with the overall package.”
Read review
Heycar
Model reviewed: Touring (estate) range
Score: 9 / 10
“Practical, comfortable and brilliant to drive, the BMW 3 Series Touring is one of the best premium family cars.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 9 / 10
“The archetypal premium sporting saloon, the BMW 3 Series defines the segment it competes in against its key German rivals like the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.”
Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: 320d xDrive M Sport
“There’s little to criticise – it looks the part, in our opinion, and the interior is a very cosseting place for long journeys.”
Read review
Motoring Research
Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The current BMW 3 Series is a car at the top of its game. It’s practical, packed with tech, quick and efficient… and a great driver’s car.”
Read review
Motors.co.uk
Score: 9 / 10
“The BMW 3 Series comes with brilliant driving dynamics, intuitive technology; and a good range of frugal and punchy powerplants.”
Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: saloon range
Score: 9 / 10
“The BMW 3 Series is still the best compact executive saloon”
Read review
Model reviewed: 33e plug-in hybrid
Score: 8.4 / 10
“Plug-in BMW 3 Series is an excellent, tax-efficient all-rounder”
Read review
Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 9 / 10
“A brilliant all-rounder that’s great to drive with some clever practicality features.”
Read review
The Sun
“The cabins are modern and clean and beautiful . . . but just a little boring. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with the craftmanship or the tech, it’s just not as plush as an Audi or Mercedes.”
Read review
The Sunday Times
Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic 330d xDrive M Sport
Score: 9 / 10
“Do-it-all premium estate is a more comprehensive package than ever.”
Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: Facelift range
Score: 10 / 10
“In an automotive world where everything is changing, the new BMW 3 Series maintains a dignified competence and all-round unflappability. Calm, capable and seemingly well built, the standard models are lively and the faster ones blistering, but all have that BMW approach to efficiency with every single part honed to provide that bit more real-life economy and performance.” (Andrew English)
Read review
Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic M340i xDrive Touring
Score: 10 / 10
“As a performance car that can also carry the family and their bags, it’s superb. Yes, it’s expensive, but you’d be hard-pushed to find this combination of practicality, driving excitement and sheer pace for less.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Estate range
“Comfortable, quick and commodious, the BMW 3 Series Touring is more useful (but complicated) than before and there seems little reason to doubt BMW’s prediction that it will continue to sell about 10,000 a year in the UK – lucky people…”
Read review
Model reviewed: 330e PHEV plug-in hybrid
Score: 8 / 10
“After the previous BMW 3 Series hybrid, this feels like an all-new generation despite the same drivetrain, with more spritely performance and a whole set of better figures in terms of range, fuel consumption and EV operation. Expensive, but none of this type of car is cheap and the PHEV BMW is one of the best of the breed.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 320d 2.0-litre diesel manual
Score: 8 / 10
“Shame it had to get bigger, but the new 3-series is a much more assured drivers’ car than its predecessor, though that comes at the cost of ride quality on M-Sport cars. The new twin-turbocharged diesel is powerful and economical and while the cabin is beautifully made it is a bit dull.”
Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: M340d Touring estate
Score: 9 / 10
“The best car BMW makes? Besides being ‘good’, it’s also cool. So much more suave than an X2 or a 2 Series Active Tourer or an X4 or an X6 or a 6GT or an X7 M50d, but not as flashy as an 8 Gran Coupe. If this is diesel’s last hurrah, then we can say it went out on a high, in one of the finest subtle superwagons ever built.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Touring (estate) range
Score: 8 / 10
“For the vast majority of us, the BMW 3 Series Touring is all the car we could use or want.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“Rivals keep it from a better score, but the new 3 is still one of the benchmarks for this class.”
Read review
Model reviewed: M340i xDrive
Score: 9 / 10
“It’s not just a normal xDrive 3-er. The persons from M have had a go.”
Read review
What Car?
Model reviewed: Touring range review
Score: 10 / 10
“If you want a great driving experience alongside a big boot, the 3 Series Touring stands in a class of its own at this size.”
Read review
Score: 10 / 10
“The 3 Series leads the charge in the premium executive class. Its primary appeal is in the way it drives, with handling that’s guaranteed to really put a smile on your face. It’s also economical in 320d form and well equipped, with the best infotainment system in its class.”
Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: October 2019
Read the full Euro NCAP review
Adult protection: 97%
Child protection: 87%
Vulnerable road users: 87%
Safety assist: 76%
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
Model tested: 2.0-litre diesel automatic 320d saloon
Overall score: 2 stars
Date tested: November 2020
Read the full Green NCAP review
Energy Efficiency Index: 6 / 10
The rating above only applies to the 320d saloon, which is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine with an automatic gearbox. It does not apply to any other engine/gearbox combination.
Overall, the BMW 3 Series range performs well in terms of low CO2 emissions across most engines in the range.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Fuel consumption | Average | Score | Variation | Score |
Petrol models | 41 mpg | D | 34 – 44 mpg | C – D |
Diesel models | 54 mpg | B | 43 – 61 mpg | A – C |
Plug-in hybrid models | 314 mpg | A | 149 – 353 mpg | A – A |
CO₂ output | Average | Score | Variation | Score |
Petrol models | 156 g/km | B | 145 – 191 g/km | B – C |
Diesel models | 138 g/km | B | 119 – 172 g/km | A – C |
Plug-in hybrid models | 21 g/km | A | 19 – 43 g/km | A – A |
Battery range | Average | Score | Variation | Score |
Plug-in hybrid models | 59 miles | C | 28 – 63 miles | C – E |
Insurance group | Average | Score | Variation | Score |
All models | 33 | C | 24 – 42 | B – D |
Service and maintenance | Cost | Score |
Year 1 | £259 | B |
Year 2 | £603 | B |
Year 3 | £985 | B |
Year 4 | £1,282 | C |
Year 5 | £1,672 | C |
Overall | £4,801 | B |
The BMW 3 Series is a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to running costs. Fuel consumption for the petrol models is worse than average, while the diesels are better than average.
The plug-in hybrid models look great on paper, but this is entirly unrealistic. That’s not BMW’s fault, but rather the way that the EU/UK regulations are written. The battery range for the plug-in hybrid also looks poor, but is actually not too bad for a plug-in hybrid car.
Insurance costs are about average, while scheduled servicing and maintenance costs are average to good.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
Total claims: 2118
Average repair cost: £757.49
Last updated: October 2024
Reliability score
All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims
As of October 2024, the BMW 3 Series is very poor when it comes to reliability with a rating of E and a score of just 42%, according to workshop and warranty data provided by our commercial partner, MotorEasy. This covers both the current model (2019 onwards) as well as earlier generations.
Based on a large number of warranty repairs, the average repair costs is also quite high at nearly £800. That’s a lot more than the cost of a used car warranty, which is certainly worth considering if you own a 3 Series or are thinking about buying one.
The most common problems reported for the 3 Series relate to its engine, and unfortunately these are also the most expensive faults, with an average repair bill of about £1,600. Gearbox problems are also similarly expensive to repair, but appear to be less common. Repair bills for electrical system, engine and suspension are more competitive, thankfully, averaging less than £400 for each.
The current BMW 3 Series has also had 15 recalls to date, which is a very high number (see ‘Recalls’ section below) and covers a range of different problems.
Make sure that any used car warranty you are purchasing covers all of these potential problem areas.
Recalls
Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the BMW 3 Series
Date: December 2023
Recall number: R/2023/354
Model types: All 3 Series Touring estate
Build dates: 01/2023 only
Number of vehicles affected: 26
Defect: On affected vehicles ingress of transmission fluid may occur to the integrated transmission control unit within the mechatronic module.
Remedy: On affected vehicles the transmission mechatronic module will be replaced.
Date: June 2023
Recall number: R/2023/071
Model types: All 3 Series saloon
Build dates: 07/2022 to 10/2022
Number of vehicles affected: 538
Defect: On certain vehicles the Body Domain Controller (BDC) control unit may have an incorrect setting applied to it.
Remedy: Conduct a check of the settings and if necessary perform a reset on the BDC control unit.
Date: November 2022
Recall number: R/2022/323
Model types: All 3 Series Touring estate
Build dates: 09/2022 only
Number of vehicles affected: 7
Defect: It is possible that a damaged seat belt may have been installed into the vehicle during production.
Remedy: The front left upper seat belt will be replaced on affected vehicles as a precaution.
Date: October 2022
Recall number: R/2022/297
Model types: 3 Series saloon
Build dates: 01/2021 only
Number of vehicles affected: 1
Defect: The safety recall relates to a problem with a cell module within the high-voltage battery.
Remedy: Replace the affected high-voltage cell module.
Date: June 2022
Recall number: R/2022/255
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2019 to 06/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 322,745 (including other BMW models)
Defect: Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.
Remedy: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality
Date: March 2022
Recall number: R/2022/089
Model types: All 3 Series Touring estate
Build dates: 01/2022 only
Number of vehicles affected: 2,018
Defect: The micro gas generator within the front seatbelt’s retractor may have been damaged and may not act according to the specification in the event of an accident.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the front seatbelts will be checked and replaced if they are found to have been damaged.
Date: August 2021
Recall number: R/2021/288
Model types: 3 Series saloon
Build dates: 04/2019 only
Number of vehicles affected: 1
Defect: The fault involves the tandem vacuum/oil pump fitted to the engine. On affected vehicles it is possible that the engine rotates in the opposite direction than it is meant to on start-up causing the tandem pump to fail.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the control unit (DME) will be programmed to prevent the failure from occuring.
Date: May 2021
Recall number: R/2021/168
Model types: All
Build dates: 09/2020 to 03/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 60
Defect: The screw connection of the front seat belt buckle assembly to the seat frame may not be tightened properly.
Remedy: On affected vehicles the screw connection of the lower belt of the front seats will be checked and if necessary reworked.
Date: March 2021
Recall number: R/2021/085
Model types: All
Build dates: 01/2021 to 02/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 705
Defect: Affected vehicles may be fitted with brake discs which were not produced according to the specifications
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the brake discs will be checked and if necessary replaced
Date: January 2021
Recall number: R/2021/015
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2020 to 10/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 388
Defect: The battery cables on the 48V starter generator may not have been sufficiently secured during the production process.
Remedy: Check the screw connection of the 48V positive / negative battery cables on the starter generator and rework if necessary.
Date: December 2020
Recall number: R/2020/283
Model types: All
Build dates: 03/2020 to 09/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 2,665
Defect: A possibility of impurities contained in the HV batteries may cause short circuit.
Remedy: Testing of battery charge cycles and replacement of the HV cells where necessary.
Date: October 2020
Recall number: R/2020/298
Model types: All
Build dates: 01/2020 to 09/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 871
Defect: In very rare cases welding beads were not always completely removed in the cleaning process during battery production.
Remedy: Test and replace the High Voltage batteries if affected.
Date: August 2020
Recall number: R/2020/219
Model types: All
Build dates: 10/2018 to 03/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 4,542
Defect: A steering tie rod with an earlier design configuration can become broken in the ‘kink’ groove area of the rod.
Remedy: Both of the steering tie rods will be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Date: April 2020
Recall number: R/2019/290
Model types: All
Build dates: 10/2018 to 03/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 1,737
Defect: The rear center head restraint interlock was not welded according to specification.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the center rear head restraint will be replaced.
Date: December 2019
Recall number: R/2019/368
Model types: All
Build dates: 03/2019 to 07/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 53
Defect: The engine counterbalance shaft bearing bushing into the crankcase may be out of specification.
Remedy: Replace the engine of affected vehicles.
As of October 2024, there have been 15 DVSA vehicle safety recalls on the BMW 3 Series. The recalls are sometimes only for the saloon or Touring estate, and cover engine components, seat belts, steering tie rods, head rests, batteries and brakes. Affected models can range from simply one, to thousands in need of a recall.
Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Audi dealer.
If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used 3 Series, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.
Awards
Trophies, prizes and awards that the BMW 3 Series has received
2024
- What Car? Used Car Awards – Best Used Hybrid (330e)
2023
- EcoCar Electrified Top 50 – Best Plug-In Hybrid Large Car + Best Plug-In Hybrid Large Estate Car
- Fleet News Awards – Most Reliable Company Car
- What Car? EV Awards – Best Used Hybrid Executive Car (330e)
- What Car? Used Car Awards – Best Used Car + Best Used Executive Car + Best Used Hybrid (330e)
2022
- Business Car Awards – Best Premium Car
- Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Compact Executive Car
- EcoCar Electrified Top 50 – Best Compact Executive Plug-in Hybrid
- Fleet World Awards – Best Compact Executive Car
- What Car? Awards – Best Executive Car
- What Car? Electric Awards – Best Used Hybrid Executive Car (330e)
2021
- The Car Expert Awards – Medium Car Class Champion, petrol/diesel
- Auto Trader New Car Awards – Best Hybrid (330e)
- Business Car Awards – Best Premium Car
- Business Motoring Awards – Best Medium Car + Best PHEV
- Carwow Awards – Best Family Hybrid Car (330e)
- Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Compact Executive
- DieselCar & EcoCar Top 50 – Best Compact Executive Car
- Fleet News Awards – Best Premium Car
- Fleet World Awards – Best Compact Executive Car
- Parkers New Car Awards – Best Company Car
- What Car? Awards – Best Executive Car + Best Plug-In Hybrid to Drive + Best Estate Car to Drive
- What Car? EV Awards – Best Hybrid Executive Car
2020
- Auto Trader Awards – Most Loved Car
- Autocar Britain’s Best Car Awards – Best Company Car (330e)
- Business Car Awards – Best Premium Car
- Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Car of the Year + Best Compact Executive
- DieselCar & EcoCar Top 50 – Best Compact Executive Car
- Fleet News Awards – New Company Car of the Year + Best Premium Car
- Fleet World Awards – Best New Fleet Car + Best Fleet Compact Executive Car
- Parkers New Car Awards – Best Company Car (330e)
- What Car? Awards – Best Executive Car + Best Plug-in Hybrid + Safety Award
- What Car? Electric Car Awards – Best Plug-In Hybrid Executive Car
2019
- Auto Express Awards – Best Compact Executive Car
- Business Car Awards – Best Premium Car
- carwow Awards – Car of the Year + Best Family Car
- What Car? Awards – Best Executive Car
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the BMW 3 Series, you might also be interested in these alternatives
Alfa Romeo Giulia | Audi A4 | Audi A5 Sportback | Jaguar XE | Kia Stinger | Mazda 6 | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | Peugeot 508 | Polestar 2 | Subaru Levorg | Tesla Model 3 | Vauxhall Insignia | Volkswagen Arteon | Volkswagen Passat | Volvo S60 | Volvo V60
Buy a BMW 3 Series
If you’re looking to buy a new or used BMW 3 Series, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car.
Find your next used car with Motors. Find out more
Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more
Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more
Lease a BMW 3 Series
If you’re looking to lease a new BMW 3 Series, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.
Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Carparison Leasing. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Rivervale Leasing. Find out more
Subscribe to a BMW 3 Series
If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help (What’s a car subscription?)
Car subscriptions from Wagonex.
Find out more
Car subscriptions from DriveFuze.
Find out more
Car subscriptions from Cocoon.
Find out more