Introduction
The 3 Series will go down as one of BMW’s greatest success stories. Introduced in 1975, more than 16 million models have been produced since then, with 1.1 million of those being the latest generation, introduced in 2019.
So while many drivers might default to an SUV these days, it’s clear plenty of buyers still want a saloon and estate like the 3 Series. This latest model hasn’t been on sale for long, but knowing the importance of this segment, BMW is back with a reworked model to make sure it remains at the top of its game.
Key changes as part of this update include the introduction of the Curved Display to the 3 Series, which merges a digital dial display and touchscreen into one main piece of glass, and helps to modernise the cabin. The trim levels have had a slight rejig too, while the design has had an update too – including new LED headlights with a new signature, a different grille pattern and new gloss black elements in the reworked bumpers. Let’s find out how it performs.
Performance
The only change in terms of powertrains is that the entry-level 318i and 318d are no more in the UK, though there’s still a good choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid.
If you’d like a petrol, there’s the choice of the 181bhp 320i, 254bhp 330i and 369bhp six-cylinder M340i. This latter option is the quickest in the line-up, with 0-60mph taking just 4.2 seconds. As for diesel, there’s the 187bhp 320d (available with or without xDrive), and the 335bhp M340d xDrive, which is able to hit 0-60mph in just 4.4 seconds, while BMW also claims up to 48.7mpg.
There’s also the popular 288bhp 330e plug-in hybrid, which can manage up to 40 miles on electricity, and enables some very low running costs – BMW claims up to 218mpg, and CO2 emissions of under 40g/km.
Ride and handling
We got to try the new 3 Series in two guises at the opposite end of the spectrum – the rear-wheel-drive 320d and M340i. Though both are very different in character, they share the same traits – namely an involving driving experience and superb levels of refinement.
The M340i is the one to go for if you want sporty thrills, as it offers particularly strong performance while getting a number of mechanical changes to enhance the way it drives. It’s no M3, but feels like a great performance all-rounder. The only small downside with the 3 Series is that the ride can be a bit firmer than some rivals, but this may be a worthy trade-off for a more enjoyable drive.
Interior
As we’ve mentioned, the main change to the 3 Series’ interior is the addition of the new Curved Display. It has really enhanced the experience, and not only are the screens fantastic to look at but are brilliant to use as well. Unlike some of the other newer BMWs, there’s still the iDrive controller to operate the main touchscreen too.
The interior quality is almost impossible to fault as well, with upmarket materials coming together to create a very premium finish – it’s worth remembering this is BMW’s junior saloon car, after all. It’s pretty spacious too, though the Touring estate version is the one to go for if practicality is a priority.
Equipment
BMW has dropped the entry-level SE trim level, and it means Sport is now the new option to start the range. Standard equipment is plentiful, including 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, climate control, a reversing camera and the excellent Curved Display we’ve already touched on.
M Sport then brings larger 18-inch alloy wheels, a bespoke styling kit and sports suspension while the ‘M Performance’ M340i and M340d models get bigger brakes, a sports differential and sports exhaust to name just a few changes.
Cost
With the removal of the SE grade, prices for the 3 Series have risen slightly, with prices starting from £37,805 for the 320i, £40,600 for the 320d and £43,515 for the plug-in hybrid 330e.
The M340i and M340d command quite a premium, however, with each starting from around £55,000. Just be careful on the options front too, as it can be all too easy to get carried away with BMW’s plentiful choice of extras.
Verdict
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.
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