2021 BMW 3 Series
2021 BMW 3 Series Review
- Polished handling
- Tastefully modern interior with plenty of room
- Powerful and fuel-efficient engines
- Infotainment system can be complicated to use
- Unrefined operation of some driver assist features
- New 330e plug-in hybrid version
- Wireless Android Auto smartphone integration is now available
- Part of the seventh 3 Series generation introduced for 2019
The current-generation BMW 3 Series sedan made its debut just a few years back, and for 2021 another new variant joins the lineup: the 330e plug-in hybrid. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motor, which is integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, create a maximum combined output of 288 horsepower. That's about 30 more horses than the base 330i.
On top of that it has a hybrid battery that you can recharge at home or at a public charger to provide an EPA-estimated 23 miles of all-electric range (that drops to 20 miles when equipped with all-wheel drive). After the battery runs out of juice, the 330e pretty much drives just like any other 3 Series.
Aside from that, the 3 Series remains relatively unchanged for 2021. It's not quite as engaging to drive as some past 3 Series iterations, but this latest model — especially in M340i guise — is undeniably impressively quick and capable. And what the 3 Series may have lost in terms of driving dynamics, it's made up for it in refinement and premium touches. The interior is handsome and comfortable, and it's available with a good array of in-car tech and driver aids.
So is this 2021 3 Series for you, or should you get an Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class or Volvo S60 instead? Check out the categories of our Expert Rating to help you decide.
Our verdict | |
The latest-generation BMW 3 Series is a solid luxury sport sedan. But some rivals offer more impressive design and technology. Unfortunately, "benchmark" is no longer one of the descriptors that come to mind for the 3 Series. | |
How does the 3 Series drive? | |
We tested an all-wheel-drive 330i. Its turbocharged four-cylinder is strong and responsive; you don't need to rev it much before it delivers the goods. Our test car reached 60 mph in 5.6 seconds in our testing, which is a quick time for a small luxury sedan with a base engine. The transmission shifts quickly and complements the surprisingly flexible power of the engine. The brakes in the 330i 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. We also like the car's agility when going around turns. With the M Sport package, the 330i's body motions are well controlled. Experienced drivers might find themselves wanting a little more playfulness, but nonetheless this luxury sedan is easy to drive quickly. | |
How comfortable is the 3 Series? | |
Our test 330i suffered from a surprisingly harsh ride. We suspect the cause to be our test car's optional sport suspension (as part of the M Sport package) and possibly the rough-riding tires as well. If you're worried about comfort, we'd suggest getting a 330i without the M Sport package. We do like the 330i's exceptionally quiet cabin at highway speeds. Plus, the front seats are supportive and have plenty of available adjustments. The 3 Series' climate system is capable but operating it can be puzzling at times. Some functions are odd — syncing zones must be done through the touchscreen, for instance. Also, the system won't really adjust fan speed when in auto mode, so you'll have to do that yourself. | |
How’s the interior? | |
It's clear that BMW put a lot of thought into the front cabin comfort and design. There's ample doorway head clearance front and rear for getting in and out, and the door grabs and handles are well placed and easy to use. The front seating is roomy, although the rear seat is best suited for two — the center tunnel eats up most of the foot space. We're less fond of the 3 Series' iDrive infotainment system. It has plenty of functions, but they are often hard to locate in the convoluted maze of menus. Also, the layout of physical buttons and controls is generally comprehensible, but you'll have to take your eyes off the road to find the flat buttons on the console — you can't just feel them by touch. It'll take some time for owners to get accustomed to the 3 Series' control setup. | |
How’s the tech? | |
You'd think that BMW would kill it here, but the reality is that some rival automakers are ahead of the game. For instance, the 3 Series' navigation system lacks the polished execution of Mercedes' new augmented-reality feature or Audi's Virtual Cockpit gauge cluster display. Also, the 3 Series has many advanced driving safety aids, but their effectiveness is hit-or-miss. BMW includes one year of wireless Apple CarPlay, but after that it's a fee-based subscription. To date, BMW is the only manufacturer with a subscription model. There's still no Android Auto support. Our test car had the optional Harman Kardon audio system — we found it delivers rich, clean sound up front but less so for the rear passengers. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The trunk is sizable, and the lid hinges are shrouded so they won't crush cargo when the lid comes down. The rear seatbacks are split 40/20/40, and they fold and lie nearly flat when down. Storage space for small items in the cabin is decent. For family taxi duty, the 3 Series does a respectable job. The Isofix anchors for securing child safety seats are clearly marked and easily accessible under flip-up lids. There's also enough space to fit a larger rear-facing car seat behind all but the tallest drivers. | |
How economical is the 3 Series? | |
With a rating of 28 mpg in combined city/highway driving, the 330i xDrive is surprisingly efficient for the performance it delivers. (The rear-drive 330i is slightly more efficient, and the M340 is slightly less.) We averaged a respectable 31.3 mpg on our 115-mile evaluation route, which is above expectations. Other traffic-heavy tanks yielded mpg in the low 20s. | |
Is the 3 Series a good value? | |
The 3 Series isn't the priciest offering in the segment, but it's also far from the best value. You get a quality product for your dollar with solid performance to match and complimentary maintenance as a bonus. But if you're looking for maximum value, you're better off checking out some of the other segment offerings. Warranty coverage is typical for a luxury brand. | |
Wildcard | |
BMW can still make a capable small sedan. For most people, this 3 Series will meet expectations. But for people who love driving for fun, the 330i will likely disappoint a little. Certainly the M340i ups the excitement a little. As for design, the cabin has character, but there are some styling elements at the rear of the car that remind us of a Lexus. That's a first for a 3 Series and not necessarily a good thing. |
Which 3 Series does Edmunds recommend?
BMW 3 Series models
The 2021 BMW 3 Series sedan is offered in three trim levels: 330i, M340i and the new 330e plug-in hybrid. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive (BMW's xDrive) is optional across the board. Although the three use different engines, all route their power through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Features include:
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Consumer reviews
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Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $41,250
- MPG & Fuel
- 26 City / 36 Hwy / 30 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.6 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 255 hp @ 5000 rpm
- Torque: 294 lb-ft @ 1550 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 185.7 in. / Height: 56.8 in. / Width: 71.9 in.
- Curb Weight: 3560 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 13.0 cu.ft.

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Safety
Our experts’ favorite 3 Series safety features:
- Driving Assistance Professional package
- Enhances the 3 Series' standard safety features with upgrades such as lane keeping assist.
- Active Blind-Spot Detection
- Alerts you with in-mirror lights when a vehicle is in a blind spot and vibrates the steering wheel if you attempt to change lanes.
- Side- and Top-View Camera
- Offers a top-down, 360-degree view of the car and surroundings to monitor approaching traffic and aid in navigating tight spaces.
BMW 3 Series vs. the competition
2021 BMW 3 Series
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The C-Class is one of the 3 Series' well-known rivals. Both are similar takes on the small luxury sedan formula. The current-generation C-Class has been around since 2015, but a steady stream of updates have kept it feeling relatively fresh. We like the C-Class' available tech and driver aids, premium interior and refined driving dynamics.
BMW 3 Series vs. Audi A4
The Audi A4 benefits from a recent revision that includes an updated exterior design and more in-car tech and driver aids. It doesn't feel quite as new inside as the 3 Series, but the cabin is spacious and has a premium feel other sedans struggle to match. It offers standard all-wheel drive for less money than you'll pay for a base 3 Series. It's not quite as athletic as the BMW, but it's comfortable, quiet and reasonably sporty.
BMW 3 Series vs. Genesis G70
The Genesis G70 is one of the newest kids on the block, but what an entrance. It doesn't quite match the class leaders — including the 3 Series — when it comes to an overall premium feel, but it's quite nice inside and significantly less expensive than its rivals. It's fun to drive without compromising comfort much.
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FAQ
Is the BMW 3 Series a good car?
What's new in the 2021 BMW 3 Series?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 BMW 3 Series:
- New 330e plug-in hybrid version
- Wireless Android Auto smartphone integration is now available
- Part of the seventh 3 Series generation introduced for 2019
Is the BMW 3 Series reliable?
Is the 2021 BMW 3 Series a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 BMW 3 Series?
The least-expensive 2021 BMW 3 Series is the 2021 BMW 3 Series 330i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $41,250.
Other versions include:
- 330i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $41,250
- 330i xDrive 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $43,250
- M340i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $54,700
- M340i xDrive 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $56,700
- 330e 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $44,550
- 330e xDrive 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $46,550