2025 BMW 3 Series

How does the 3 Series drive? We tested the M340i xDrive. At our test track, it blitzed from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds — much closer to the 3.2 seconds of the M3 Competition than the 5.7 seconds of the 330i xDrive. The transmission shifts quickly and complements the surprisingly flexible power of the engine.

The 3 Series' brakes are solid all around and one of the highlights of this car. The pedal is smooth and easy to control in casual driving but strong, stable and confident in hard use. Experienced drivers might find themselves wanting a little more playfulness from the 330i, but the M340i is available to easily satisfy.

How comfortable is the 3 Series? This particular M340i is an example of how the right spec can separate the merely fine from the exceptional. A previously tested 330i was equipped with the M Sport suspension, which we found punishing on the road. The setup is standard on the M340i, but our test vehicle had adaptive dampers and, wow, what a difference. They effectively make this little sport sedan drivable day to day. Don't even consider an M340i without them.

Otherwise, the standard M sport seats are wonderfully supportive, with cushioning that strikes a perfect balance between firm and comfortable. They feature a range of adjustments, so even taller drivers can dial in the right position without any issue. The ride is quiet, too, with the inline-six settling into a low thrum when you aren't booting the accelerator pedal.

Our only issue is with the climate controls. We like that there are three climate zones by default, but now the front controls are hidden in the touchscreen. As a result, you have to take your eyes off the road to alter the temperature or rely on the sometimes wonky voice control system to do it for you.

How’s the interior? It's easy to get in and out of the 3 Series thanks to ample doorway clearance, and a wide range of seat and steering wheel adjustments afford an excellent driving position for most drivers. The 3 Series is spacious as compact sedans go, with sufficient elbow room for front and rear passengers. Visibility is average, but an array of optional cameras offer added exterior views from several angles.

BMW's iDrive interface looks fantastic, but there are so many features and controls it can sometimes be a maze to navigate. It's easy to discern the fixed buttons and controls, but the console's flat buttons require regular downward glances.

How’s the storage? The 3 Series offers 13 cubic feet of trunk space, which is slightly roomier than average for the segment. Only a hatchback like the Audi S5 Sportback would offer a significantly larger cargo area. A folding 40/20/40-split rear seat lies nearly flat and adds versatility.

In-cabin storage isn't abundant, but there's enough to go around between the door pockets and center console. One phone can find a home in the wireless charging tray. Easily located LATCH anchors make it a breeze to install a car seat base, but the 3 Series' inherently compact size might force a front seat occupant to move forward if you need to place a rear-facing car seat.

Is the 3 Series a good value? This is an expensive luxury sedan, no doubt. But if you compare this against an M3, the M340i offers a similar level of driving excitement for a lot less money. So there's value here if you can do some mental gymnastics. The interior has high-quality materials and our test car had no fitment or build quality issues. BMW's basic and powertrain warranties are typical for the segment.

Our particular version of the M340i was an absolute blast, deftly balancing approachable performance with good road comfort. But previously tested 3 Series variants of this generation haven't been so successful, meaning your mileage may vary if you choose the wrong spec. Our advice? If you're going with the 330i, skip the performance suspension and large-diameter wheels. For the M340i, the adaptive suspension is a must-have.