2024 BMW 3 Series

BMW’s sedans and SUVs regularly earn CR’s recommendations for packing industry-leading comfort and technology into vehicles that are agile, quick, and even fuel efficient. Among luxury brands like Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln, and Land Rover, BMW’s SUVs often rank near the top of their category. Models like the X5 are remarkable for having powertrains that accelerate quickly while also managing above-average fuel efficiency. Some BMWs can be bought as plug-in hybrids, with useful electric-only range, or in performance trims, with more powerful engines and stiffer suspensions. BMW’s growing roster of EVs also generally rank high in our tests. Like most luxury cars from European manufacturers, BMWs fall on the expensive side of our assessments of maintenance and repair costs, but some specific models are a good option to buy used. However, shoppers considering a preowned BMW should opt for warranties or budget for repairs.

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.