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{{Short description|Series of compact executive cars produced by BMW}}
{{Infobox Automobile
{{Distinguish|BMW i3}}
|image=[[Image:Bmw3er.jpg|250px|Five generations of BMW 3 Series sedans (left to right: E21, E30, E36, E46, and E90)]]
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2023}}
|name=BMW 3 Series
{{Infobox automobile
|manufacturer=[[BMW]]
| name = BMW 3 Series
|production=1975–present
| image = BMW G20 (2022) IMG 7316 (2).jpg
|predecessor=[[BMW 2002]]
| manufacturer = [[BMW]]
|class=[[Entry-level luxury car]] / [[Compact executive car]]
| production = 1975–present
|body_style=2-door [[coupé]]<br>2-door [[convertible]]<br>3-door [[hatchback]]<br>4-door [[sedan]]<br>5-door [[station wagon]]
|platform class = [[FRCompact layout|FRexecutive car]]/ ([[AllD-wheel drivesegment|AWDD]])
|related predecessor =[[BMW M3]]<br>[[BMW X302 Series]]
| related =
|similar=[[Acura TSX]]<br>[[Alfa Romeo 159]]<br>[[Audi A4]]<br>[[Cadillac CTS]]<br>[[Infiniti G35]]/[[Nissan Skyline]]<br>[[Jaguar X-Type]]<br>[[Lexus IS]]<br>[[Mercedes-Benz C-Class]]<br>[[Saab 9-3]]<br>[[Volvo S60]]
| successor =
}}
}}
 
The '''BMW 3 series''' is a line of [[compact executive car]]s manufactured by the German automaker [[BMW]] since May 1975. It is the successor to the [[BMW 02 Series|02 series]] and has been produced in seven generations.
The '''BMW 3 Series''' is an [[Luxury vehicles|entry-level luxury car]] / [[compact executive car]] manufactured by [[BMW]] since May 1975. It was the successor to the [[BMW New Class|2002 coupe]], retaining much of that car's styling while adding a more powerful 2.0&nbsp;L 110&nbsp;hp (82&nbsp;kW) engine and other performance enhancements. The 3 Series was for some time the smallest car line manufactured by BMW, although that place was in 2004 taken by the [[BMW 1 Series]]. The 3 series is BMW's best selling automobile, accounting for nearly 40% of all automobiles sold by the company in 2005. [http://www.bmwgroup.com/e/nav/index.html?http://www.bmwgroup.com/e/0_0_www_bmwgroup_com/investor_relations/finanzberichte/geschaeftsberichte/2005/zahlen/marke_bmw.shtml]
 
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback ("[[BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo|Gran Turismo]]"; discontinued in 2019) and 3-door hatchback [[car body style|body styles]]. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the [[BMW 4 Series|4 Series]]; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series.
==Social and marketing significance==
From its sporting origins in 1975, the E21 generation, available in two and four-door forms (e30 on), as well as a later in-house full convertible (e30 on) (replacing the Top Cabrio version coach built by [[Karosserie_Baur | Baur]] of Germany for BMW), became a more formal range that was synonymous with the "[[yuppie]]" generation. Being an accessible prestige-badge car, the 3 Series' reputation grew at this time. By the early 21st century, the E46 3 Series, designed by American [[Chris Bangle]], was the best-selling car of its size in the world, as commonplace in Asia and America as in Europe, while maintaining its prestigious image.
 
The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model line, accounting for around 30% of the BMW brand's annual total car sales,<ref>{{cite web|title=2010 BMW Group Annual Report|url=http://geschaeftsbericht.bmwgroup.com/2010/gb/files/pdf/en/BMW_Group_AR2010.pdf|publisher=BMW AG|access-date=17 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110627011422/http://geschaeftsbericht.bmwgroup.com/2010/gb/files/pdf/en/BMW_Group_AR2010.pdf|archive-date=27 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> and has won numerous awards throughout its history. The [[BMW M|M]] version of the 3 series, [[BMW M3|M3]], debuted with the [[BMW 3 Series (E30)|E30]] [[BMW E30 M3|M3]] in 1986.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=66153|title=BMW 3 Series|publisher=Edmunds.com|date=22 January 2009|access-date=3 October 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090831144900/http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId%3D66153|archive-date=31 August 2009}}</ref>
==History==
[[Image:5generationsBMW3series.jpg|thumb|250px|right|5 generations of BMW 3 Series / © WCF.]]
Like most of BMW's contemporary models, the 3 Series name has been applied to many different vehicles. The 1998 3 Series is marketed similarly to the 1999 3 Series, but the two share few mechanical components and are styled quite differently.
 
__TOC__
3 Series vehicles can be largely differentiated by the underlying platform:
{{Clear}}
* [[BMW E21]] - (1975–1983) 3 Series
* [[BMW E30]] - (1984–1991) 3 Series
* [[BMW E36]] - (1992–1998) 3 Series
* [[BMW E46]] - (1999–2005) 3 Series
* [[BMW E90]] - (2006–XXXX) 3 Series Sedan
* [[BMW E91]] - (2006-XXXX) 3 Series Wagon
* [[BMW E92]] - (2007-XXXX) 3 Series Coupé
* [[BMW E93]] - (2008-XXXX) 3 Series Convertible
 
=== First generation (E21=; 1975) ==
{{mainMain article|BMW 3 Series (E21)}}
[[ImageFile:1977_bmw_320_e211981 BMW 320 2.0 Front.jpg|thumb|250px|right| 1977 BMW 320E21 (E21front) / © WCF.]]
[[File:1981 BMW 320 2.0 Rear.jpg|thumb|left|E21 (rear)]]
The E21 line was produced from [[May 2]], [[1975]] (1977 in the USA) through 1983. Originally a replacement for the [[BMW New Class|2002]] coupe, the first 3-Series was a 2-door only. The [[BMW New Class|New Class sedans]] would be replaced by the [[BMW 5 Series|5 Series]]. A factory authorised cabrio version was built by [[Karosserie Baur |Baur]]
The E21 replaced the [[BMW 02 Series|02 Series]] and was initially available as a 2-door sedan (also described as coupé).<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E21 3 Series specs|url=http://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/M58/E21-3-Series|website=ultimatespecs.com|access-date=22 January 2017|archive-date=30 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190530182124/https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/M58/E21-3-Series|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
At launch, all models used carburetted 4-cylinder engines; however, fuel-injected models were introduced in late 1975 and 6-cylinder engines were added in 1977. A cabriolet body style – manufactured by Baur – was available from 1978 to 1981.
Models:
{{Clear}}
* Europe
** 1981-1983 '''315''' - 1.6&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M41|M41]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 75&nbsp;hp (55&nbsp;kW)
** 1975-1979 '''316''' - 1.6&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M41|M41]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 90&nbsp;hp (66&nbsp;kW)
** 1980-1983 '''316''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M10B18|M10B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 90&nbsp;hp (67&nbsp;kW)
** 1975-1980 '''318''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M42|M42]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 98&nbsp;hp (72&nbsp;kW)
** 1975-1977 '''320''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M64|M64]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 109&nbsp;hp (80&nbsp;kW)
** 1977-1983 '''320i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M20B20|M20B20]]'' [[I6]], 125&nbsp;hp (92&nbsp;kW)
** 1978-1983 '''323i''' - 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B23|M20B23]]'' [[I6]], 143&nbsp;hp (105&nbsp;kW)
* Rest of world
** 1976-1979 '''320i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M43/1|M43/1]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 110&nbsp;hp (82&nbsp;kW)
** 1980-1983 '''320i''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M42|M42]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 100&nbsp;hp (75&nbsp;kW)
 
== Second generation (E30; 1982) ==
===E30===
{{mainMain article|BMW 3 Series (E30)}}
[[ImageFile:1990 BMW- 318i (E30) 2-door sedan (22028060738).jpg|thumb|250px|right|BMW 3-Series E30. coupé]]
[[ImageFile:1990 BMW- 318i (E30) 2-door sedan (22203078172).jpg|left|thumb|250px|right|3-SeriesE30 sedan (1980s)coupé]]
On introduction in 1982, the E30 was produced solely in the 2-door sedan body style. Four-door [[Sedan (automobile)|sedan]] models were introduced in 1983, [[convertible (car)|convertible]]s were introduced in 1985 and [[station wagon|estate]] ("Touring") models were introduced in 1987.
 
The E30 was the first 3 Series to be available in wagon and 4-door sedan body styles. It was also the first 3 Series to offer a diesel engine, and [[all-wheel drive]] was introduced to the 3 Series range with the 325iX model. The [[BMW Z1]] roadster was based on the E30 platform.
The E30 was sold from 1982 through 1991, (through 1993 in Convertible form). The E30's introductory price of [[USD|US$]]18,210 was nearly double that of the E21 just 7 years earlier, but the availability of a six cylinder engine and 4-door body style (in 1984) earned sales. The torquey "eta" six in the 325e produced 121&nbsp;hp (90&nbsp;kW) but met the strict emission standards of the time and was the most powerful compact BMW offered in the United States since the [[BMW 2002|2002 Tii]].
 
The first [[BMW M3#E30|BMW M3]] was built on the E30 platform. The E30 M3 is powered by the high-revving [[BMW S14|S14]] four-cylinder petrol engine, which produced {{convert|175|kW|hp|abbr=on}} in its final European-only iteration.<ref name="BMW M3 E30 2.5i 238Hp EVO II">{{cite web |url=http://automobilio.info/en/BMW/M/M3-E30/2.5i-%28238Hp%29-EVO-II/14785 |title=BMW M3 E30 2.5i (238Hp) EVO II |website=automobilio.info |access-date=9 March 2016 |archive-date=2 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191002065006/http://automobilio.info/en/BMW/M/M3-E30/2.5i-(238Hp)-EVO-II/14785 |url-status=live }}</ref>
The lineup was joined in 1985 by the high-output 325i and 325is. Though the engine displacement was reduced to 2.5&nbsp;L, output was up to 168&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW) as the company focused on performance rather than economy. Rev limit for the new motor was raised from 5000RPM to 6500RPM, as a shorter stroke was employed with the new motor. <br>
{{Clear}}
An [[all wheel drive]] version, the 325ix, joined the lineup for 1986. The four-cylinder 318 was dropped in 1985, but a was brought back with a new, 1.8L [[DOHC]] motor (M42B18) for 1991.
 
== Third generation (E36; 1990) ==
In 1989 BMW introduced the touring version of the E30. It was what is nowadays called a lifestyle stationcar, what means that it was a car with the looks of a stationcar, but it wasn´t that large and spacious.It was a very popular model and has been in production up to 1994. It was available with a 1.6, 1.8, 2,0 and 2,5 liter engine. The 325i touring was also available as 4wd.
{{Main article|BMW 3 Series (E36)}}
[[File:1991-1996 BMW 318i (E36) sedan (2011-04-02) 01.jpg|thumb|E36 sedan]]
[[File:1991-1996 BMW 318i (E36) sedan (2011-04-02) 02.jpg|left|thumb|E36 sedan]]
The E36 was sold in the following body styles: sedan, coupé, convertible, wagon (marketed as "Touring"), and hatchback (marketed as "[[BMW 3 Series Compact|3 Series Compact]]"). The Compact model, which was shorter than the three-box versions, was powered by the BMW's four-cylinder engines developed during the 1990s.
 
The E36 was the first 3 Series to be offered in a hatchback body style. It was also the first 3 Series to be available with a 6-speed manual transmission (in the 1996 M3), a 5-speed automatic transmission, and a four-cylinder diesel engine. The multi-link rear suspension was also a significant upgrade compared with previous generations of the 3 Series.
The most-powerful American BMW E30 ever also came that year in the form of the [[BMW M3|M3]]. It used a 192&nbsp;hp (143&nbsp;kW) ''[[BMW S14|S14]]'' [[straight-4]] with a [[multi-valve|4-valve]] head adapted from the ''[[BMW M88|M88]]'' six and [[Bosch]] [[fuel injection]].
 
The [[BMW M3#E36 M3|M3]] model is powered by the [[BMW S50|S50]] and [[BMW S52|S52]] straight-six engines. It was sold in coupé, sedan and convertible body styles.
Models:
* Europe
** 1982-1987 '''316''' - 1.6&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M98|M98]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 90&nbsp;hp (66&nbsp;kW)
** 1982-1990 '''316 1.8''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M10B18|M10B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 90&nbsp;hp (66&nbsp;kW)
** 1987-1991 '''316i''' - 1.6&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M40#M40B18|M40B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 102&nbsp;hp (75&nbsp;kW)
** 1982-1987 '''318i''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M10B18|M10B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 105&nbsp;hp (77&nbsp;kW)
** 1987-1991 '''318i''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M40#M40B18|M40B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 115&nbsp;hp (85&nbsp;kW)
** 1989-1991 '''318is''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M42#M42B18|M42B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 140&nbsp;hp (103&nbsp;kW)
** 1982-1985 '''320i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B20|M20B20]]'' [[I6]], 125&nbsp;hp (92&nbsp;kW)
** 1985-1991 '''320i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B20|M20B20]]'' [[I6]], 129&nbsp;hp (95&nbsp;kW)
** 1988-1990 '''320is''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW S14|S14]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 192&nbsp;hp (141&nbsp;kW)
** 1982-1986 '''323i''' - 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B23|M20B23]]'' [[I6]], 150&nbsp;hp (110&nbsp;kW)
** 1985-1991 '''325i''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B25|M20B25]]'' [[I6]], 170&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW)
** 1986-1991 '''325iX''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B25|M20B25]]'' [[I6]], 170&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW)
** 1986-1988 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[BMW S14|S14]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 200&nbsp;hp (147&nbsp;kW)
** 1989-1991 '''[[BMW M3|M3 Evo]]''' - 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[BMW S14|S14]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 215&nbsp;hp (158&nbsp;kW)
** 1985-1991 '''324d''' - 2.4&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M21|M21]]'' [[I6]], 86&nbsp;hp (63&nbsp;kW)
** 1987-1991 '''324td''' - 2.4&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M21|M21]]'' [[I6]], 115&nbsp;hp (85&nbsp;kW)
* Other markets
** 1984-1985 '''318i''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M10#M10B18|M10B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 101&nbsp;hp (75&nbsp;kW) - North America
** 1991 '''318iS''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M42#M42B18|M42B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 134&nbsp;hp (100&nbsp;kW) - North America
** 1984-1991 '''325e''' - 2.7&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B27|M20B27]]'' [[I6]], 121&nbsp;hp (90&nbsp;kW) - North America
** 1986-1991 '''325es''' - 2.7&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B27|M20B27]]'' [[I6]], 121&nbsp;hp (90&nbsp;kW) - North America
** 1987-1991 '''325i/is''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B25|M20B25]]'' [[I6]], 168&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW) - North America
** 1988-1991 '''325ix''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20#M20B25|M20B25]]'' [[I6]], 168&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW) - North America
** 1988-1991 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[BMW S14|S14]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 192&nbsp;hp (143&nbsp;kW) - North America
** 1984-1990 '''333i''' - 3.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M30|M30]]'' [[I6]], 197&nbsp;hp (145&nbsp;kW) - South Africa
* External Links
** [http://www.m42club.com/forums/ M42Club.com] is a model-specific forum and community for the E30 318i/iS.
 
The [[BMW Z3]] roadster and coupe models were based on the E36 platform.
===E36===
{{main|BMW E36Clear}}
[[Image:1993 bmw 325is left.jpg|250px|thumb|325is]]
[[Image:165541558_6c6a9049.jpg|250px|thumb|1995 318ti Compact]]
Also known as the "Dolphin shape." The E36 was sold from 1991 through 1998 . It employed the "Z-axle" [[multilink suspension]] in the rear which had been proven in the [[BMW Z1|Z1]]. [[DOHC]] engines were used across the range, with [[VANOS]] [[variable valve timing]] introduced in 1993.
 
== Fourth generation (E46; 1997)==
The four-door E36 was sold from Fall, 1991, in the United States but the E30 coupes were retained until well into 1992. The E36 convertible was delayed until 1994. The [[hatchback]] [[318ti]] ''Compact'' was introduced in 1995, was very popular in Europe, but it was not very successful in North America. The [[BMW Compact]] was identical to the regular E36 sedan from front bumper to A-Pillar. Everything else was unique, namely it's rear semi-trailing arm suspension, based off the old E30, instead of the Z-Axle Multilink employed in all other E36's. The Z3 and M Coupe have similar rear suspension setups as well.
{{Main article|BMW 3 Series (E46)}}
The "Touring" [[station wagon]] was sold in Europe from 1995, but was not offered in the United States.
[[File:BMW E46 front 20080328.jpg|thumb|224x224px|E46 sedan]]
[[File:BMW E46 rear 20080328.jpg|left|thumb|E46 sedan]]
The E46 was sold in the following body styles: sedan, coupé, convertible, wagon (marketed as "Touring"), and hatchback (marketed as "[[BMW E46/5|3 Series Compact]]").
 
The E46 generation introduced various electronic features to the 3 Series, including satellite navigation, electronic brake-force display, ASC/DSC, rain-sensing wipers, LED tail-lights, and Xenon headlights.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Pretorius |first1=Martin |title=BMW 3 Series E46 4th Generation 1999-2006 Review |url=https://carbuzz.com/cars/bmw/3-series-e46-4th-gen#facelift |website=CarBUZZ |access-date=9 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2000 BMW E46 M3 Review|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/bmw/2000-bmw-e46-m3-review/|website=TopSpeed.com|date=29 June 2006 |access-date=10 February 2017|language=en|archive-date=28 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028212239/https://www.topspeed.com/cars/bmw/2000-bmw-e46-m3-review-ar10614.html#main|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E46 3 Series Buyer's Guide|url=http://www.reveuro.com/buyers-guide/bmw/3-series/e46.html|website=reveuro.com|access-date=10 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130402062058/http://www.reveuro.com/buyers-guide/bmw/3-series/e46.html|archive-date=2 April 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=BMW 3 Series (E46) – 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/bmw-3-series-e46-2002.html#aeng_bmw-3-series-e46-2002-316i-5at-115-hp|website=autoevolution.com|language=en-us|access-date=14 April 2017|archive-date=3 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703232140/https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/bmw-3-series-e46-2002.html#aeng_bmw-3-series-e46-2002-316i-5at-115-hp|url-status=live}}</ref> All-wheel drive, last available in the [[BMW E30|E30]] 3 Series, was reintroduced for the E46. It was available for the 325xi and 330xi sedan/wagon models.<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E46 3 Series|url=http://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/M804/E46-3-Series|website=ultimatespecs.com|access-date=9 March 2016|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327112115/https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/M804/E46-3-Series|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E46 3 Series Touring|url=http://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/M808/E46-3-Series-Touring|website=ultimatespecs.com|access-date=9 March 2016|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327102347/https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/M808/E46-3-Series-Touring|url-status=live}}</ref> The E46 generation came with the [[BMW M52|M52TU]]/[[BMW M54|M54]] engines with dual [[VANOS|Vanos]] (variable valve timing) and came with a GM 5 speed Automatic ([[GM 5L40-E transmission|5L40E]]), ZF 5 speed Manual ([[ZF S5-31 transmission|S5-31]]), Getrag 5 speed Manual (S5D-250G), ZF 6 speed Manual (GS6-37BZ/DZ), and ZF 6-speed Automatic Manual (SMG) (GS6S37BZ).<ref>{{cite web |title=List of BMW engines |url=https://www.engine-specs.net/bmw-engines |website=engine-specs.net |publisher=Engine Specs |access-date=9 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=3' E46 330Ci Manual Transmission GS6S37BZ (SMG) |url=https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BN53-USA-08-2000-E46-BMW-330Ci&diagId=23_0928 |website=RealOEM |access-date=9 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=3' E46 323Ci Manual Transmission S5D 250G |url=https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BM33-USA-06-2000-E46-BMW-323Ci&diagId=23_0116 |website=RealOEM |access-date=9 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=3' E46 330Ci Manual transmission GS6-37BZ/DZ |url=https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BN53-USA-08-2000-E46-BMW-330Ci&diagId=23_0918 |website=RealOEM |access-date=9 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=3' E46 330Ci Manual Transmission S5D320Z |url=https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BN53-USA-08-2000-E46-BMW-330Ci&diagId=23_0121 |website=RealOEM |access-date=9 September 2023}}</ref>
The 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#M50B25|M50B25]]'' used in the 325 models was replaced in 1996 with the 2.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M50B28|M52B28]]'', creating the 328 line. Another 2.5&nbsp;L engine, the ''[[BMW M52#M50B25|M52B25]]'', was reintroduced for 1998 but the cars were sold as 323 rather than 325.
 
The [[E46 M3|M3]] version of the E46 was powered by the [[BMW S54|S54]] straight-six engine and was available in coupé and convertible body styles (other than that, it was powered with the [[BMW M52|M52]] or [[BMW M54|M54]] in non-M3 cars). The transmissions available were a 6-speed manual or the 6-speed "SMG-II" [[sequential manual gearbox]].<ref name="BMW M3 E30 2.5i 238Hp EVO II"/>
The 4-door 3 Series models were replaced after 1998 in the US, while the 2-door models lasted through 1999.
{{Clear}}
 
== Fifth generation (E90/E91/E92/E93; 2004) ==
Models:
{{Main article|BMW 3 Series (E90)}}
* Europe
[[File:2005-2008 BMW 320i (E90) sedan (2011-07-17) 01.jpg|thumb|right|E90 sedan]]
** 1991-1994 '''316i''' - 1.6&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M40#M40B18|M40B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 102&nbsp;hp (76&nbsp;kW)
[[File:2005-2008 BMW 320i (E90) sedan (2011-07-17) 02.jpg|left|thumb|E90 sedan]]
** 1995-1999 '''316i''' - 1.6&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M43#M43B16|M43B16]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 102&nbsp;hp (76&nbsp;kW)
The fifth generation 3 Series was produced in the [[Sedan (automobile)|sedan]], [[Station wagon|wagon]] (marketed as "Touring"), [[coupé]] and [[retractable hardtop|cabriolet]] body styles. Due to the separate model codes for each body style, the term "E9X" is sometimes used to describe this generation of the 3 Series.
** 1991-1999 '''318i''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M40#M40B18|M40B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 115&nbsp;hp (86&nbsp;kW)
** 1995-2000 '''318iS/ti''' - 1.9&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M44#M44B19|M44B19]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 140&nbsp;hp (104&nbsp;kW)
** 1991-1995 '''320''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#M50B25|M50B25]]'' [[I6]], 150&nbsp;hp (112&nbsp;kW)
** 1992-1997 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 3.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#S50B30|S50B30]]'' [[I6]]
** 1993-1997 '''323''' - 2.4&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#M50B24|M50B24]]'' [[I6]]
** 1994-1999 '''320''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M50B20|M52B20]]'' [[I6]]
** 1994-1999 '''324''' - 2.4&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M50B24|M52B24]]'' [[I6]]
** 1995-2000 '''325''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M50B25|M52B25]]'' [[I6]]
** 1995-2000 '''328''' - 2.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M50B28|M52B28]]'' [[I6]]
** 1995-2000 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 3.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#S50B32|S50B32]]'' [[I6]]
* US
** 1992-1995 '''318iS/[[318ti]]''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M42#M42B18|M42B18]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 134&nbsp;hp (100&nbsp;kW)
** 1992-1995 '''325''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#M50B25|M50B25]]'' [[I6]], 189&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW)
** 1995 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 3.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#S50B30US|S50B30US]]'' [[I6]]
** 1996-1999 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 3.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#S52B32|S52B32]]'' [[I6]]
** 1996-1998 '''328''' - 2.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M50B28|M52B28]]'' [[I6]], 190&nbsp;hp (142&nbsp;kW)
** 1996-1999 '''318''' - 1.9&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M44#M44B19|M44B19]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]], 138&nbsp;hp (103&nbsp;kW)
** 1998 '''323''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M50B25|M52B25]]'' [[I6]], 168&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW)
 
In 2006, the 335i became the first 3 Series model to be sold with a [[turbocharged]] gasoline engine. The E90 also saw the introduction of [[run-flat tire]]s to the 3 Series range. Consequently, cars with run flats are not equipped with spare tires.
===E46===
{{main|BMW E46}}
[[Image:Bmw 3 2004 cabrio.jpg|250px|thumb|3-series cabriolet]]
[[Image:318ti03.jpg|250px|thumb|E46 3 Series Compact]]
The E46 chassis began to replace the E36 specification for 1999. Only the 4-door sedans were updated that year. The E36 coupé and [[station wagon|touring]] models lasted one more year until the E46 replacements arrived for [[model year]] [[2000]]. The 2.8&nbsp;L cars were called 328 while 2.5&nbsp;L cars got the confusing 323 name. The new ''[[BMW M54|M54]]'' engines appeared for 2001; with the new 3.0&nbsp;L 330 replacing the 328, BMW renamed the 2.5&nbsp;L car the 325. Also in 2001, the [[BMW Compact|compact]] 3-door version appeared on the european market, but it was replaced in 2004 by the [[BMW 1 Series|1 series]]. During the second half of 2005 the E46 sedan and touring were phased out in favour of the new [[E90]]. The E46 coupé and convertible remain in production well into 2006.
 
The E90/E92/E93 [[BMW M3#E90.2F92.2F93 M3|M3]] was powered by the [[BMW S65]] V8 engine. It was released in 2007 and was produced in sedan, coupe, and cabriolet body styles.
Models:
* Europe and other markets
** 1998-2001 '''316i''' - 1.9&nbsp;L, 105&nbsp;hp (77&nbsp;kW)
** 2001-2005 '''316i''' - 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW N42#N42B18|N42B18]]'', 116&nbsp;hp (87&nbsp;kW)
** 1998-2001 '''318i''' - 1.9&nbsp;L, 118&nbsp;hp (87&nbsp;kW)
** 2001-2005 '''318i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW N42#N42B20|N42B20]]'', 143&nbsp;hp (105&nbsp;kW)
** 2005-2006 '''318Ci''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW N42#N42B20|N42B20]]'', 150&nbsp;hp (110&nbsp;kW)
** 1998-2002 '''320i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M52B20|M52B20 T]]'', 150&nbsp;hp (110&nbsp;kW)
** 2000-2006 '''320i''' - 2.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M54#M54B22|M54B22]]'', 170&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW)
** 1998-2001 '''323i''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M52B25|M52B25 T]]'', 170&nbsp;hp (125&nbsp;kW)
** 1998-2001 '''328i''' - 2.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M52B28|M52B28 T]]'', 193&nbsp;hp (142&nbsp;kW)
** 2000-2006 '''325i''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M54#M54B25|M54B25]]'', 192 PS
** 2000-2006 '''330i''' - 3.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M54#M54B30|M54B30]]'', 231 PS
** 2000-2003 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 3.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M54#S54B32|S54B32]]'', 343 PS
* US
** 1999-2001 '''323i''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M52B25|M52B25 T]]'', 170&nbsp;hp (127&nbsp;kW)
** 1999-2001 '''328i''' - 2.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52#M52B28|M52B28 T]]'', 193&nbsp;hp (144&nbsp;kW)
** 2001-2005 '''325i''' - 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M54#M54B25|M54B25]]'', 184&nbsp;hp (137&nbsp;kW)
** 2001-2005 '''330i''' - 3.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M54#M54B30|M54B30]]'', 225&nbsp;hp (168&nbsp;kW)
** 2001-2005 '''[[BMW M3|M3]]''' - 3.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M54#S54B32|S54B32]]'', 333&nbsp;hp (248&nbsp;kW)
 
Production of the fifth-generation BMW 3 Series ended in 2012.
Diesel models:
{{Clear}}
* 1998-2001 '''320d''' - 1951&nbsp;cc, 136&nbsp;hp (100&nbsp;kW)
* 2002-2006 '''320d''' - 1995&nbsp;cc, 150&nbsp;hp (110&nbsp;kW)
* 2002-2003 '''330d''' - 2926&nbsp;cc, 184&nbsp;hp (135&nbsp;kW)
* 2004-2006 '''330d''' - 2926&nbsp;cc, 204&nbsp;hp (150&nbsp;kW)
 
== Sixth generation (F30/F31/F34/F35; 2011) ==
===E90===
{{mainMain article|BMW E903 Series (F30)}}
[[ImageFile:2012 BMW Series3320d black(F30 lMY13) Luxury Line sedan (2015-07-24) 01.jpg|250px|thumb|BMW 3-seriesF30 sedan]]
[[File:2012 BMW 320d (F30 MY13) Luxury Line sedan (2015-07-24) 02.jpg|left|thumb|F30 sedan]]
[[Image:222546402_136ae5e810.jpg|250px|thumb|2006 BMW 325i Sport]]
The F30/F31/F35 has been produced in the [[sedan (automobile)|sedan]], [[coupé]], [[convertible]], [[station wagon]] and 5-door [[hatchback]] ("Gran Turismo") body styles. A long-wheelbase sedan is also available in China.
[[Image:BMW325XI_E90.jpg|250px|thumb|2006 BMW 325xi]]
<!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:335i_exterior.jpg|250px|thumb|The E92 coupe]] -->
[[Image:BMW-3-Series cars.jpg|250px|thumb|E46 and E90 3-Series sedans side-by-side]]
The E90 began production in May 2005 as a 2006 model. Currently, four engine options are offered, two being part of the new 'N' series of BMW inline engines featuring a lightweight magnesium/aluminum construction and technological innovations such as individual cylinder throttles, steplessly variable valve timing, and dual stage intake timing. The 3-Series is manufactured in Regensburg, Munich, and Leipzig, Germany while only the coupe, convertible, and some sedans are manufactured in Regensburg. The '''E91''' touring model has also been available since fall 2005 along with 4WD models 325xi, 330xi and 330xd. The '''E92''' 2-door will come out in September of 2006 along with BMW's new ''[[BMW N54|N54]]'' twin-turbo engine.
 
For the F30/F31/F34 series, the coupe and convertible models were produced from the 2013 year until 2014 when they were split from the 3 Series, redesigned, and sold as the [[BMW 4 Series]]. A new body style was introduced into the 3 Series range: the [[BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo|3 Series Gran Turismo]], a long-wheelbase hatchback.<ref name="carsguide.com.au">{{cite web|url=http://www.carsguide.com.au/car-news/2016-bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-detailed-42038/amp|title=3 series GT configurations|access-date=13 June 2018|archive-date=13 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613160329/https://www.carsguide.com.au/car-news/2016-bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-detailed-42038/amp|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2017 BMW 3-series Gran Turismo|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/2017-bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-photos-and-info-news|website=caranddriver.com|date=June 2016 |access-date=9 May 2018|archive-date=10 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510050856/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/2017-bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-photos-and-info-news|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Review|url=https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/3-series-gran-turismo/2018/review/|website=edmunds.com|access-date=9 May 2018|archive-date=10 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510051426/https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/3-series-gran-turismo/2018/review/|url-status=live}}</ref>
As of 2006, the E90 outsells both the [[Ford Mondeo]] and [[Vauxhall Vectra]] in the [[United Kingdom]], according to official [[SMMT]] figures.
 
In 2016, a [[plug-in hybrid]] drivetrain was first used in the 3 Series, in the 330e model.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.autoblog.com/2016/01/28/2016-bmw-330e-plug-in-hybrid-first-drive-review/|title=2016 BMW 330e Plug-In Hybrid First Drive|website=Autoblog|date=28 January 2016 |access-date=28 October 2021|archive-date=13 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413225230/https://www.autoblog.com/2016/01/28/2016-bmw-330e-plug-in-hybrid-first-drive-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> Also in 2016, a 3-cylinder engine was used for the first time in a 3 Series.
Models:
*2005- '''318i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L gasoline inline-four, 129&nbsp;hp (95&nbsp;kW)
*2005- '''318d''' - 2.0&nbsp;L diesel inline-four, 122&nbsp;hp (90&nbsp;kW)
*2005- '''320i''' - 2.0&nbsp;L gasoline inline-four, 150&nbsp;hp (110&nbsp;kW)
*2006 '''320si''' - 2.0&nbsp;L gasoline inline-four, 173&nbsp;hp (126&nbsp;kW). Limited production (2600 units worldwide).
*2005- '''320d''' - 2.0&nbsp;L diesel inline-four, 163&nbsp;hp (120&nbsp;kW)
*2006- '''323i''' - 2.5&nbsp;L (Canada), gasoline inline-six, 174&nbsp;hp (128&nbsp;kW)
*2006- '''325i''' - 2.5&nbsp;L (Europe)/3.0&nbsp;L (North America), gasoline inline-six, 218&nbsp;hp (160&nbsp;kW)
*2006- '''325xi''' - 3.0&nbsp;L (North America), gasoline inline-six, 218&nbsp;hp (160&nbsp;kW)
*2006- '''330i''' - 3.0&nbsp;L gasoline inline-six, 258&nbsp;hp (190&nbsp;kW)
*2006- '''325d''' - 3.0&nbsp;L diesel inline-six, 197&nbsp;hp
*2006- '''330d''' - 3.0&nbsp;L diesel inline-six, 231&nbsp;hp (170&nbsp;kW)
*2006- '''335d''' - 3.0&nbsp;L twin-turbo diesel inline-six, 286&nbsp;hp
*2007- '''328i coupe''' - 3.0&nbsp;L gasoline inline-six, 230&nbsp;hp (172&nbsp;kW)
*2007- '''335i coupe''' - 3.0&nbsp;L twin-turbo gasoline inline-six, 300&nbsp;hp (224&nbsp;kW) and 300&nbsp;ft·lbf (407&nbsp;N·m)
*2008- '''[[BMW M3 |M3]] coupe and saloon'''
 
The [[BMW M3#F80 M3|M3]] version (designated F80, the first time an M3 has used a separate model designation) was released in 2014 and is powered by the [[BMW N55#S55 engine|S55]] twin-turbo straight-6 engine.
BMW will reportedly produce a metal-topped [[coupé convertible]] model of the 3 series (E93) rather than the traditional cloth-top [[convertible]]. This model will be introduced in 2007.
BMW will reportedly produce the E90 M3 in saloon form.
 
Production ended in 2019 with the end of F31 Touring production in June.<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW spendet letzten produzierten 3er Touring |url=https://www.carzoom.de/info/bmw-spendet-letzten-produzierten-3er-touring/ |website=carzoom.de |access-date=29 July 2019 |language=de |archive-date=29 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190729062321/https://www.carzoom.de/info/bmw-spendet-letzten-produzierten-3er-touring/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=BMW 3 Series Touring Set To Debut At 2019 Geneva Motor Show |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/bmw-3-series-touring-set-to-debut-at-2019-geneva-motor-show |website=CarBuzz.com |date=19 October 2018 |access-date=29 July 2019 |language=en-us |archive-date=19 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181019043706/https://carbuzz.com/news/bmw-3-series-touring-set-to-debut-at-2019-geneva-motor-show |url-status=live }}</ref>
'''Note:'''
{{Clear}}
In the US, the 325i and 330i are both powered by the same 3.0&nbsp;L N52 engine, but the 330i features revised engine software and improved intake and exhaust systems to produce an additional 40 hp (255 vs. 215). Canada also gets a 323i model which has a detuned 2.5&nbsp;L gasoline-injected inline-six producing 177&nbsp;hp (130&nbsp;kW).
 
== Seventh generation (G20/G21/G28; 2018) ==
==Awards==
{{Main article|BMW 3 Series (G20)}}
The 3 Series has been on ''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine's annual [[Car and Driver Ten Best|Ten Best]] list 15 times, from 1992 through 2005, making it the second-most common entry on that list. The E90 was named "Best New Sports Sedan" in the 2006 [[Canadian Car of the Year]] awards. Also, it was awarded the ''[[World Car of the Year]]'' at the [[New York Auto Show]] in April. British television show Top Gear, named the new 3 Series the "Ugliest car of the year" in 2005. Other nominees were: the [[Ssangyong Kyron]], the Ssangyong Rodius and the [[Ssangyong Musso]] [http://www.bimmerportal.com/].
[[File:2019 BMW 318d SE Automatic 2.0 Front.jpg|thumb|G20 sedan (front)]]
[[File:2019 BMW 318d SE Automatic 2.0 Rear.jpg|left|thumb|G20 sedan (rear)]]
The BMW 3 Series (G20) was unveiled at the [[2018 Paris Motor Show]] on 2 October 2018. The official images of the vehicle were revealed a day prior to its unveiling. The seventh generation of the 3 Series is also offered as a station wagon.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/new-3-series-touring-revealed/46863/|title=New 3 Series Touring Revealed|date=12 June 2019|website=Cars.co.za|access-date=2 August 2019|archive-date=2 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190802175116/https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/new-3-series-touring-revealed/46863/|url-status=live}}</ref> The more powerful M3 and M3 Competition variants were delivered globally starting in 2021. The G20 is the first 3 Series generation to bring an M3 Touring to market.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=The first-ever BMW M3 Touring. |url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/detail/T0399336EN/the-first-ever-bmw-m3-touring?language=en |access-date=2022-08-14 |website=press.bmwgroup.com |language=en}}</ref> Since 2022, it gained a [[Battery electric vehicle|battery electric]] version exclusive for the Chinese market as the [[BMW i3 (G28)|i3]], sharing its powertrain with the globally marketed [[BMW i4|i4]]. A facelift was revealed in May 2022, and launched in select markets in November 2022, for the 2023 model year.
 
{{Clear}}
{{commons|BMW 3 Series}}
 
== ExternalM linksversions ==
[[File:2017 BMW M3 (F80) sedan (2018-08-31) 01.jpg|thumb|F80 M3 (front)]]
* [http://www.bmw.com/generic/com/en/products/automobiles/showroom/3series/sedan/index.html Official BMW 3 Series]
[[File:2017 BMW M3 (F80) sedan (2018-08-31) 02.jpg|thumb|left|F80 M3 (rear)]]
* [http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=5 Bimmerfest 3 Series Forum]
{{main article|BMW M3}}
* [http://www.e90post.com E90 Post Forum]
* [http://www.car-catalog.com/large_cars/bmw_3_series.htm BMW 3 Series] Specifications and Road Test
* [http://youre92.com 2007 BMW 335i 328i Hi-res Wallpaper, Videos, E92 Coupe News]
 
The M3 is the most performance oriented version of the 3 Series. It is designed and developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, [[BMW M]].
{{BMW cars}}
 
M3 models have been derived from the E30, E36, E46, E90/E92/E93, and F30 (designated F80) 3 series and have been marketed with [[coupé]], [[Sedan (car)|sedan]] and [[Convertible (car)|convertible]] body styles. Upgrades over the "standard" 3 Series automobiles include more powerful and responsive engines, improved handling/suspension/braking systems, aerodynamic body enhancements, lightweight components, and interior/exterior accents with the tri-color "M" (Motorsport) emblem.
 
The last M3 coupé was produced in Germany on 5 July 2013, replaced by the F82/F83 [[BMW M4|M4 coupé]] and convertible starting with the 2015 model year,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.worldcarfans.com/10605017186/bmw-m3-celebrating-20-years-of-a-sporting-legend | title=BMW M3 Celebrating 20 Years of a Sporting Legend | access-date=2012-02-27 | website=worldcarfans.com | date=2008-02-27 | archive-date=29 March 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120329221659/http://www.worldcarfans.com/10605017186/bmw-m3-celebrating-20-years-of-a-sporting-legend | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.clubsportiva.com/blog/bmw-m3-the-evolution-of-the-benchmark/ |title=BMW M3 – The Evolution of the Benchmark |access-date=8 April 2013 |publisher=clubsportiva.com |date=2012-02-27 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110918135521/http://www.clubsportiva.com/blog/bmw-m3-the-evolution-of-the-benchmark/ |archive-date=18 September 2011 }}</ref> but the M3 name remains in use for the sedan version. The new generation M3 was reintroduced in 2021, codenamed G80 from the 7th generation 3 Series (G20). The M3 represented above (The F80) was powered by a [[BMW N55|BMW S55]] engine producing {{cvt|431|PS|kW|disp=flip}} at 7,600&nbsp;rpm.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bmw-m.com/en/topics/magazine-article-pool/bmw-m3-f80-and-bmw-m4-f82.html#:~:text=The%20S55B30%20engine%20of%20the,of%20the%203.0%20litre%20motor. |title=BMW M3 and BMW M4.|access-date=5 August 2022| website=BMW-M.com |date = 2020-09-17 }}</ref>
 
In June 2022, BMW revealed the first BMW M3 Touring, codenamed G81. Based on the seventh generation 3 Series, it marks the first time a BMW M Touring model reached the market.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/detail/T0399336EN/the-first-ever-bmw-m3-touring?language=en|title=The first-ever BMW M3 Touring.|access-date=14 August 2022| website=press.bmwgroup.com |date = 2022-06-22 }}</ref> The touring version of the M3 contains the same engine and interior setup as the M3 sedan, but extends the roof line to become a [[Station wagon|wagon]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bmw-m.com/en/all-models/overview-m-and-m-performance/bmw-m3-competition-touring/2022/bmw-m3-competition-touring-with-m-xdrive.html |title=BMW M3 Touring.|access-date=14 August 2022| website=BMW-M.com }}</ref>
 
== Awards and recognition ==
The 3 Series has been on ''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine's annual [[Car and Driver 10Best|10 Best]] list 22 times, from 1992 through 2014, making it the longest-running entry in the list.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/best_worst_lists/2009_10best_cars_10best_cars+page-2.html |title=2009 10Best Cars – 10Best Cars/Best/Worst Lists/High Performance/Hot Lists/Reviews/Car and Driver |publisher=Car And Driver |date=23 March 2008 |access-date=12 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090629220745/http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/best_worst_lists/2009_10best_cars_10best_cars%2Bpage-2.html |archive-date=29 June 2009 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In their December 2009 issue, ''[[Grassroots Motorsports]]'' magazine named the BMW 3 Series as the second-most important performance car built during the previous 25 years. In January 2021, the BMW 330e M Sport (M Sport Pro Package) was named Executive Car of the Year by ''[[What Car?]]'' magazine.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Car of the Year Awards 2021: Executive Car of the Year|url=https://www.whatcar.com/news/car-of-the-year-awards-2021-executive-car-of-the-year/n22437|access-date=2021-12-07|website=whatcar.com}}</ref> ''What Car?'' awarded the 3 Series five stars out of five in its review of the car.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BMW 3 Series Review 2021|url=https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/review/n91|access-date=2021-12-07|website=whatcar.com}}</ref>
 
The [[plug-in hybrid]] version of the car was the UK's best-selling plug-in hybrid car of 2021 having achieved 10,979 new registrations throughout the year, beating the [[Mercedes-Benz A-Class|Mercedes A-Class]] by over 4,000 registrations.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.smmt.co.uk/vehicle-data/car-registrations/ |title=SMMT – Car Registrations |publisher=smmt.co.uk |access-date=22 January 2022}}</ref>
 
== Production and sales ==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! rowspan="2" | Year
! rowspan="2" | Production
! colspan="2" |Sales
|-
!Europe<ref>{{Cite web|date=2014-01-27|title=BMW 3-series European sales figures|url=https://carsalesbase.com/europe-bmw-3-series/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-07-12|website=carsalesbase.com|language=en-US|archive-date=12 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712042034/https://carsalesbase.com/europe-bmw-3-series/}}</ref>
!U.S.*
|-
|1980
|
|
|25,771
|-
|1981
|
|
|28,927
|-
|1982
|
|
|35,190
|-
|1983
|
|
|33,602
|-
|1984
|
|
|30,868
|-
|1985
|
|
|53,927
|-
|1986
|
|
|61,822
|-
|1987
|
|
|58,897
|-
|1988
|
|
|34,914
|-
|1989
|
|
|21,738
|-
|1990
|
|
|22,825
|-
|1991
|
|
|29,002
|-
|1992
|
|
|38,040
|-
|1993
|
|
|45,594
|-
|1994
|
|
|46,287
|-
| 1995
|
|
|50,146
|-
| 1996
|
|
|50,248
|-
| 1997
| 337,800<ref name="bmwprod">{{Cite web |url=http://www.autointell.com/european_companies/BMW/business-figures/BMW-business-figures-1997-2006-WB.xls |title=BMW (Rover) Sales & Production Databook | date=9 June 2007 |archive-date=17 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717055107/http://www.autointell.com/european_companies/BMW/business-figures/BMW-business-figures-1997-2006-WB.xls |url-status=dead | publisher = Automotive Intelligence }}</ref>
|216,866
|52,472
|-
| 1998
|376,900<ref name="bmwprod" />
|247,786
|57,520
|-
| 1999
| 454,000<ref name="bmwprod" />
|304,983
|77,138
|-
| 2000
| 509,007<ref name="bmwprod" />
|330,604
|89,681
|-
| 2001
| 533,952<ref name="bmwprod" />
|343,991
|103,227
|-
| 2002
| 561,249<ref name="bmwprod" />
|350,606
|115,428
|-
| 2003
| 528,358<ref name="bmwprod" />
|320,029
|111,944
|-
| 2004
| 449,732<ref name="bmwprod" />
|269,216
|106,549
|-
| 2005
| 434,342<ref name="bmwprod" />
|244,886
|106,950
|-
| 2006
| 508,479<ref name="bmwprod" />
|289,597
|120,180
|-
| 2007
| 555,219<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2008/hv/2007-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|title=Annual Report 2007|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012185107/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2008/hv/2007-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|295,063
|142,490
|-
| 2008
| 474,208<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2008/2008-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|title=Annual Report 2008|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012185121/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2008/2008-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|251,334
|112,464
|-
| 2009
| 397,103<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2009/2009-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|title=Annual Report 2009|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012185052/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2009/2009-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|198,610
|90,960
|-
| 2010
| 399,009<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2010/2010-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|title=Annual Report 2010|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012185101/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2010/2010-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|183,122
|100,910
|-
| 2011
| 384,464
|161,614
|94,371
|-
| 2012
| 406,752
|175,022
|99,602
|-
| 2013
| 500,332<ref name="prnewswire.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bmw-group-us-reports-december-and-2013-sales-238625731.html|title=BMW Group U.S. Reports December and 2013 Sales|last=LLC|first=BMW of North America|agency=PR Newswire|access-date=2016-09-15|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304204710/http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bmw-group-us-reports-december-and-2013-sales-238625731.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|200,604
|119,521
|-
| 2014
| 480,214<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2014/2014-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|title=Annual Report 2014|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012185051/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2014/2014-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|168,275
|142,232
|-
| 2015
| 444,338<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/finanzberichte/pdf/en/12784_GB_2015_en_Finanzbericht.pdf|title=Annual Report 2015|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012185113/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/finanzberichte/pdf/en/12784_GB_2015_en_Finanzbericht.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|143,023
|140,609
|-
| 2016
| 411,844<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2017/GB/2016-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|title=Annual Report 2016|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012185140/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2017/GB/2016-BMW-Group-Annual-Report.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|144,561
|106,221
|-
| 2017
|409,005
|129,053
|99,083
|-
| 2018
| 366,475<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2019/gb/BMW-GB18_en_Finanzbericht_190315_ONLINE.pdf|title=Annual Report 2018|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=12 October 2019|archive-date=15 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200915012930/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2019/gb/BMW-GB18_en_Finanzbericht_190315_ONLINE.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|106,991
|75,957
|-
| 2019
|358,643<ref>{{Cite web|title=BMW Group Annual Report 2019|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2020/gb/BMW-GB19_en_Finanzbericht.pdf|url-status=live|access-date=2021-03-24|website=BMW Group|type=Report|archive-date=27 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210627090023/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2020/gb/BMW-GB19_en_Finanzbericht.pdf}}</ref>
|124,537
|73,287
|-
| 2020
|381,416<ref>{{Cite web|title=BMW Group Report 2020|url=https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2021/bericht/BMW-Group-Bericht-2020-EN.pdf|url-status=live|access-date=2021-03-24|website=BMW Group|type=Report|archive-date=5 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210705174129/https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/ir/downloads/en/2021/bericht/BMW-Group-Bericht-2020-EN.pdf}}</ref>
|118,369
|50,937<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW of North America Reports Q4 2020 and Full Year 2020 U.S. Sales Results. |url=https://apnews.com/press-release/business-wire/business-marketing-and-advertising-corporate-news-north-america-new-jersey-e94fb64f47d74515981a53204f7f8e2a |work=Associated Press News|date=5 January 2021 |access-date=7 January 2021 |archive-date=7 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210107153717/https://apnews.com/press-release/business-wire/business-marketing-and-advertising-corporate-news-north-america-new-jersey-e94fb64f47d74515981a53204f7f8e2a |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2021
|
|
|72,398<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW of North America Reports Q4 2021 and Full Year 2021 U.S. Sales Results. |url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0363602EN_US/bmw-of-north-america-reports-q4-2021-and-full-year-2021-u-s-sales-results?language=en_US |website=www.press.bmwgroup.com}}</ref>
|-
| 2022
|
|
|67,354<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW of North America Reports Q4 2022 and Full Year 2022 U.S. Sales Results. |url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0407207EN_US/bmw-of-north-america-reports-q4-2022-and-full-year-2022-u-s-sales-results?language=en_US |website=www.press.bmwgroup.com}}</ref>
|-
| 2023
|
|
|84,774<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW of North America Reports Q4 2023 and Full Year 2023 U.S. Sales Results. |url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0438942EN_US/bmw-of-north-america-reports-q4-2023-and-full-year-2023-u-s-sales-results?language=en_US#:~:text=In%20the%20fourth%20quarter%20of,332%2C388%20vehicles%20sold%20in%202022. |website=www.press.bmwgroup.com}}</ref>
|}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>Figures since 2013 includes the BMW 4 Series
 
== See also ==
* [[List of BMW vehicles]]
 
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
 
== External links ==
{{Commons}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070708042549/http://www.bmw.com/com/en/newvehicles/3series/overview.html Official BMW 3 Series]
 
{{BMW cars: 1960s to 1980s}}
[[Category:BMW vehicles|3 Series]]
{{BMW cars: 1980s to 2000s}}
[[Category:Rear wheel drive vehicles]]
{{BMW cars: 2000s to 2010s}}
[[Category:All wheel drive vehicles]]
{{Authority control}}
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
 
{{DEFAULTSORT:Bmw 3 Series}}
[[de:BMW 3er]]
[[esCategory:BMW Serie-vehicle series|3 Series]]
[[Category:All-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[fr:BMW série 3]]
[[nlCategory:BMW 3Mid-seriesize cars]]
[[Category:Compact executive cars]]
[[ja:BMW・3シリーズ]]
[[Category:Convertibles]]
[[no:BMW 3-serie]]
[[ruCategory:BMW 3Coupés]]
[[fiCategory:BMW 3-SarjaHatchbacks]]
[[Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[sv:BMW 3-serie]]
[[Category:Euro NCAP large family cars]]
[[Category:Sports sedans]]
[[Category:Station wagons]]
[[Category:1970s cars]]
[[Category:1980s cars]]
[[Category:1990s cars]]
[[Category:2000s cars]]
[[Category:2010s cars]]
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