Used 2004 BMW 3 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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A Change
From having a truck or SUV for every car that I have owned, I have to say this is fun to drive. My last vehicle was a Tahoe I needed a more fuel economical vehicle. I researched and test drove several cars and would have to say this is the best one. It could use some more interior room and definitely a useful second cup holder. Still not sure what all the buttons do. Beware of pulling into parking spots that have a curb, you will scrape. Leather seats seems to get a lot hotter than my other leather seats. My brakes seem to leave black residue on them (no I am not hard on the brakes).
SMG/Sport Fun
We just purchased an '04 325i with the SMG 6-speed gearbox. Wow! This baby flies. The exterior of the car glows (electric red) and is a blast to drive. I have owned many cars, from Honda, Acura, Ford, Dodge, Chevy, to Mitsubishi, none compare to the solid feel and safety I see and feel with my family in this German bullet. The vehicle comes with two programable keys that have customizable features. I was disappointed to learn that the initial setup of these keys at the service center was not covered in the purchase and runs $40.
- 330Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $9,990188 mi away
- 330Ci CoupeMSRP: $5,999221 mi away
- 330Ci CoupeMSRP: $14,999230 mi away
Germans make better cars...
I own a 2004 330i w/ performance package. These cars are truly amazing. Unsurpassed performance, elegant styling, reliable, & fun to drive. I drove many models before purchasing mine, I highly recommend the performance package. The power difference is huge, and the styling and standard equipment are worth the extra. I also recommend the manual 6 speed, makes driving and handling much more fun. BMW puts an amazing amount of feel and predictability in the drivers hands. No corners cut in the design and test phase, this car can run around town to get groceries or hold its own on the race track.
Silver w/PP
I am a car nut, had owned 11 in the past 6 years. I have to say that this car is the best so far, even more than my S2000 (and about as fast). Quiet interior, handles great. Thick M steering wheel helps. Shifter not as nice as S2000, but I don't think there is anything in the world that is.
Wow and then Oh No !
This is my first BMW,new 2004 325i,4dr sedan,jetblack w/tan interior,Premium package,sunroof, steptronic transmission. Beautiful Car! Wow, this is a sports car in a practical sedan. Handling is unreal which makes driving fun and ride is smooth & comfortable. Oh No ! comes from transmission having to be replaced at 1000 miles!! BMW apparently outsources the transmissions to Ford/ZF(are you kidding me, junk)and told me they are experiencing a "seal leak" where transmission doesn't engage
Love My Beemer!
I just purchased this car, but I am already deeply in love with it! It's beoynd comfortable in every way and one of the best handling rides I've had.
Sporty and solid. Fun to drive.
Almost one month old and 500 miles later. The car rides and handles great with a tight, solid and sporty feel.The car really hugs the road on turns and the slight roar of the engine enhances the performance care experience. Not a single problem to date.
Thumbs up
Great Car....Great Service, they treat you like a valued customer.
Best Non M 3 series
This my 3rd BMW in 10 years so i'm no stranger I have a 2004 330 ZHP sedan and i just LOVE IT! Personally to me the BMW 3 series is the best car in the world. It doesnt do one thing perfect, it does everything very well. Performance, handling, comfort, good looks, and safety in one package. If your in the market for a sports sedan look no more than the three letters, BMW has set and still holds the benchmark for the sports sedan and truly lives up to the "Ultimate Driving Machine" slogan.
bmw 330i
Great in every way. My last car was an Infiniti, and I like this car much better...
330i with PP
The Performance Package option may look a bit expensive, but the added tweaks are well worth it. Drive this car hard, and it won't complain. The ride is firm, but supple and not as jarring as an M can be. This car intuitively knows where I want it to go, and it feels confident and safe at any speed. I thought the steering wheel was a little weird at first (that suede stuff), but now it feel right. A truly awesome machine.
Love it!!!!
Best car I've ever driven. Would definitely by again.
Truely the ultimate driving expericance
Recently my Porsche was stolen, so I decided to get something different. I decided to get a 4 door that was under 35k. Well, I decided to look at a BMW 325i. Since the day I purchased it I haven't looked back. My new Beemer handles great, I sometimes forget I'm driving a 4 door. Unlike Porsche, BMW pays for all your sch'd oil changes, brake pads, etc. To sum it up, BMW is turely "The ultimate driving experiance."
kip's pick
One of the best cars I have ever driven and one of the most fun to drive. Will keep this one for a lonf time but will drive another BMW. My wife will be getting one this year.
Love my car!
My 325i is fantastic. However, I have moved to CO from TX and now I find I need an AWD vehicle. I am completely spoiled by being a BMW owner and now cannot contemplate driving any other car. So, its either wait for the X3 to come in or get a 325 XiT (the wagon). Either way, I know I'll be satisfied. The best car out there for the money (if you want a fun driving experience!). You must get the manual transmission!
BMW 2003 - 330i
This has been a great BMW. This is my 2nd BMW. The other was a 5 speed 528I - 4 door. Both were dependable, great on gas...only bummer is they must run on Premium gas. The insurance is no more that it would be for a Honda.. That has always seemed odd to me. BMW keeps their basic body style for about 7 years. The best thing is to buy a used one. That makes it an affordable car to drive. Some people complain that an oil change is 80 bucks. So what...you only have to do it about every 10K miles. I have used 3 different BMW dealers in my area. Their customer service is unbelievable. If you can afford...but it.. NEver lease....
In a Class All Its Own!
Love this car! Period!! Is it the fastest? No. Is it the most attractive? No. Is it inexpensive? No. Is it the most luxurious? No. That's a lot of nos, yes? Ah, but wait! Is the 3 Series the most overall well-balanced, interactive, inutuitive, and fun car to drive? Resoundingly, yes! I've owned a lot of cars over the years; an Acura TL, Audi A4, BMW Z4, Honda Accords, Ford Mustang, Toyota Camry, Lexus SC400, and Mini Cooper, and they all do at least one thing very well, maybe even best in class! But overall, the sum of their parts only equal their total. Remarkably, with the 3 Series, its total exceeds the sum of its parts. But you won't find it on paper. You have to drive it to know it.
It's Okay
Cool car to drive because it's BMW. Like the radio with the RDS and steering controls. The Seats suck. they are so uncomfortable.. no cushion just hard leather. Dont like it at all. Rain sensor does not always work that great. steptronic pointless. Too much money for a car with hardly no options. I have replaced all 4 tires within 6 mos. the slighest hard bump will make the tire blow and the rim bend
Horrible quality
Okay.. I don't even drive much. in fact I have 7000 miles on my car after having it for a year.(it's a 2003). So far I had to get my car fixed 4 times. Twice engine related problems. My 2002 Hyundai Sonata has been much much more reliable than this junk. I like the prestige of owning a BMW but that's about it. and what kind fo 30K+ car doesn't even have a CD changer?? German quality cannot compete with Asian brands any more...
awesome
this car is the greatest car ive ever owned,, i encourage everyone to have one.
Excellent Purchase
A pure driver's car! Outstanding driving characteristics throughout. Anyone driving this car should feel like he owns the road. Handling, acceleration, braking, and overall control and visibility are excellent. Very solid feel. You will not regret buying this car. Also, there are very attractive deals available for it.
The Ultimate!!!
This 330XI is awesome!!! It has a good ammount of power, very good handling and good braking power!!! The build quality is second to none!!! The Step-Tronic is fun and sport mode is good for that extra rpm raising power!!! I'm just waiting to test the car in the snow with the AWD.
A good investment
After hearing about a friend who got injured in a head-on collision, it made me consider buying a safe car. DSC, HPS, Side airbags, confident suspension assure me that my family is safe inside this car. My first BMW is the most basic but the handling never fails to amaze me. Try entering a busy street at 40 mph while car is filled with people and groceries and you'll see what I mean.
ultimate
Ultimate driving machine is no Joke. Love making sharp turns. And driving winding roads. Simply the best.
I Get it now!
I get it now, why it's called the ultimate driving machine. After owning 4 Acuras and two Audi, all of which I was very happy with, this BMW is unbelievable. The AWD system is better than any other I've driven and the car feels so secure in winter driving conditions.
BMW 325XI Review
Best car I've ever owned. The entire buying experience was wonderful with helpful and friendly staff. The car was delived within the quoted time frame and in perfect condition. As far as driving "The Ultimate Driving Machine", I think their catch line says it best.
great ride
its really fun and fast and enjoyable for all kind of driving, good handling and plenty of speed, nice features and design
So much to like about this car!
I owned a 318i for 20 years, so deciding to buy another BMW wasn't a hard decision. I got a 330i w/perf package, Imola Red. Acceleration is so quick, and cornering is awesome! I still haven't pushed it as hard as I know it can go. Some complain about the Harmon Kardon. I think it sounds great. I love the body style, and that black leather interior is so sleek. Do I have any complaints? A few-the cupholders for instance. In reality you really only get the use of one of them. And I've seen lunchboxes with more space than the glove box in this car. My main complaint is the ride quality though. The enhanced suspension means you feel EVERY bump in the road. It's still an awesome car though!
A great drive
the bmw 325i was everything i expected and more. it is truly a great drive.
BMW 325xi
So far, i'm very pleased with this car. The engine has enought get up and go for everyday driving, and it's a eye-catching ride. The electric red paint is bright, but the clear coat seems to EASILY scratch and gather swirl marks. :-(
Lexington KY 325xi Driver
I've owned my BMW a year and have put 20,000 miles on it. The car is very enjoyable to drive. In fact, I keep volunteering to drive it even on days where it's my car pool partner's turn. I drive 25 miles each way to work through pretty countryside and it's probably my favorite portion of my day. The 5-speed automatic is very smooth shifting. I also feel secure in the car due to the great handling and braking as well as the sturdy construction. I do wish the car were a bit lighter; I believe it's 3,400 pounds contribute to so-so gas mileage (particularly poor in-town mpg) and overtaxes the engine a bit. Rear seat room is minimal, but I believe typical for a sport compact.
2004 330Xi
330 Xi handles great, good looking and is fun to drive. Got a good deal at Rallye Motors. Take a test drive you wont buy anything else......
325i ROCKS!
I test drove the G35, 350Z and 325i---- they all drove nice but I decided to purchase the 325i (need to say more). The level of comfort and the way it handles the road---great. I love my new car. All the new features that come with the 2004 model bring it to the next level.
Perfect combo of performance & value
I bought my car used with 5k miles, it now has almost 9k, no problems whatsoever. It is base model, so options limited. Reminds me of the older BMWs and ALFAs of the 60s & 70s. Handling is superb (I've previously competitively raced ALFAs). Although engine power is slightly less than some competitors, the broad powerband and sound of the engine is a sweet blessing. I've got the auto, would have bought 5 speed but price was right on steptronic, and the tranny really works with the engine to deliver the best ratios for whatever driving you do. Not worth the money for the extras or the 330i, you'll be happy with the base 325i if you're an enthusiast! Happy Motoring to all....
Awesome!
Fun to drive, very good handling, and I can feel the road. This car is just awesome! I've driven Mercedes Benz C340, Infiniti G35 Coupe, but BMW rides tight and corners well with its 17" low profile sport package tires. No complaints so far...
What 3 series is all about
I've owned 2 E30 body style 3 series (early 90's), as well as a Z3. This 2004 325i gets me back to my roots and back to what i expect from a BMW - riding on rails, good acceleration, and feeling like I am in a solid car. Unfortunately, the car has become the symbol of the yuppie. If you are a true car afficionado - a true lover of what BMWs mean (and call them properly a bimmer and not a beemer - which is reserved for their bikes), than you won't be disappointed. I looked at Mercedes, and they are great cars, but if you are focused on performance, take a ride in this one and see how well it picks-up and goes and corners.
330xi
wonderful car!its the best ive ever had, no problems, few complaints. its everything you expect it to be and more
Solid Fun
Leased new - still really enjoy the vehicle - anticipate buying at the end of the 3 years. Drives smoothly w/more than enough motor to go when and where you need it. Commutes easily, highway powerful and back road perfect. X is nice in the snow - confident handling. Love the look. Feel is solid and comfortable the "leatherette" manual seats are actually quite nice and worry free. Two repairs [windshield stone at dealer and rear end collision out sourced] both done well. BMW dealer maintenance convenient w/nice loaners - and we use the free car wash Saturday AM at our dealer] Perfect two-person vehicle - back seat room larger than appears, but not expansive. Runs on premium.
My 1st BMW
All in all I have enjoyed this car. I wish I could afford the bigger model, 5 or 7 as the only drawback I've had is the small back seat in the 3.
Worth the wait
I have always purchased American made vehicles, until now. I fell in love with the design at first of the BMW 325i but never thought I would be able to afford one. Guess what, it is almost the same price as the American vehicles I have looked at. I have 2 children under the age of 6, they have plenty of room in the back seat. Besides that, I feel that this car is designed so well that each time I get going on the road...I am sure I will get to where I am going without any trouble. This 325i BMW is just what I have always wanted, and it looks sharp as well. I chose Black on Black with a 5-speed. It was worth the wait coming over from Germany.
My New Toy
I just purchased my car and I am in love - sounds pretty silly, but it is the truth. The car is fun to drive and I feel very safe in my new car. All around the new BMW 3 series is a 10!
Enjoying It
I also test drove the Infiniti G35 to compare. The feel of this car is what sold me. Though it has less power than the Infiniti, it is much more fun to drive. I've never driven a vehicle that handles this well. Have put a little over 6,000 miles on it since purchase, and no problems so far.
Watch front differential
Front differential went out at 40,000, no driver negligence. Stalled on a cold night. Shouldn't happen to a bimmer. Dealer ok, manufacturer hard to deal with on car rental for one day, well I was less than 100 miles from home, clerk takes no consideration of driver age, weather, time of day, passed rental cost back to Moses who paid, will not let owner talk to an engineer, to defensive about being sued, which, if someone is killed by this on a busy freeway, they will be.
great car
this is by far the best car i have ever had and it will be with me for years to come.i think bmw is much better than mercedes benz,and almost any other car.
Almost perfect
I am a huge BMW fan. Once you get them into your blood, they are impossible to get out of your system. This model is small with very limited rear seat room and a tiny, shallow trunk, so try it on for size. While very sophisticated technically and engineered to perfection the interior is looking dated. The 325's smaller inline 6 is a little weak down low, but is fine for passing and highway work. Very smooth powertrain, great ride, smooth in every way. The last two year's models have much more standard equipment then older models. They had standard sunroof and rain sensing wipers, CD and full power. They could use standard driver's power seat at least for this pr
Love it!
Delivered by dealer as ordered, with sport package, leather seats, sunroof, power seats. Not a squeak, rattle or problem in the first month. Absolutely perfect! Can't wait to get past the break-in period to really drive it!
Best auto I have ever owned
no problems to discuss style 328ci
330xi ROCKS!
Upgraded from a 2002 Saab 9-3 which had plenty of turbo-charged power, but it couldn't handle it (torque steer, spinning tires, etc.) The BMW 330xi is amazing. It's solid, well- balanced, handles corners like they're not even there, is quick off the line.... it's great. The only dings are for storage space, fuel economy, and (because it's lacking the winter package) not having fold-down rear seats. Other than that: perfect.
Great car!
Our family loves this car. It is comfortable and looks great. The features the BMW comes with are outstanding. BMW is well worth the money.
Style
My BMW now has 7200 miles on it, at 3000 miles the transmission was replaced, at 4000 the engine computer was replaced, at 5000 the ignition coils were replaced at 7000 the radio was replaced. It continues to have transmission problems and has been back 7 times to the dealer it is a 2003 model