2008 BMW 3 Series Review

The 3 Series is a series of compact luxury cars, first introduced in 1975. It's their best-selling model, and until the introduction of the 1 Series, was their smallest. The sedan and wagon were redesigned in 2006, with the coupe and convertible following in 2007. The 3 Series has won numerous awards, and has been featured in Car and Driver's "Ten Best" list 16 times between 1992 and 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The BMW 3 Series is a legendary luxury car, available any way you want it. But with its laughably useless cupholders, tiny glove box, and complex iDrive system, it's probably not what you'd want to drive every day. However, the 3 Series more than makes up for it with its beefy engines, precision steering, and advanced features.

What's New For 2008:

The 335xi coupe has been introduced. It featured AWD and a turbocharged engine. Paddle shifters are now available on sedans and wagons equipped with the Sport Package and six-speed automatic.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 BMW 3 Series price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$33,600

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
18/28

Engine:
3.0L I6

Horsepower:
230@6500RPM

Torque:
200@2750RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Manual

Drive:
FR/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
16

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
48/50000

Powertrain Warranty:
48/50000

Rust Warranty:
144/Unlimi

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the BMW 3 Series 4 stars for dependability. Issues with the last generation included transmission slippage, fault sensors, steering noise, transmission leaks, and engine knock. It was recalled 9 times. Problems with the current generation include flaky air conditioners, failed torque converter seals, fading power assist, and water pump failure. It's been recalled twice for loose bolts. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The 3 Series received 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned "Good" scores for the front and side, and "Poor" for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, dynamic brake control, run-flat tires, full side airbags, brake wipers, and stability control come standard. The convertible lacks side airbags, but includes larger front airbags and rollover hoops.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Agile
+ Strong performance
+ Loads of options

Cons
- Useless cup holders
- Arguably overpriced
- iDrive

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Lexus IS 250 costs a few hundred less, and includes a CD changer and leather, but has 26 less horsepower. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 300 costs several hundred less, and is very similar. The Saab 9-3 Aero includes a CD changer, leather, and has 25 more hp, but costs a few thousand more.

What Others Are Saying:

"It's hard to beat the BMW if you're all about driving twisty roads sunrise to sunset. But reality has a nasty way of creeping into fantasy. Let's face it: we're all getting older, our butts are demanding more cush, and we want cupholders. I like the new 3-Series, but don't think it would be my first choice for a daily driver." - About.com

"The two best things about the wholly remade 2006 BMW 3 Series sedan are the extra room inside, which the car has needed for years, and the additional engine power, which makes the base six-cylinder nearly as powerful as the old high-performance six-cylinder." - USA Today

"There may be no more perfectly executed line of affordable automobiles on the planet than the BMW 3 Series, from design to handling to fit and performance." - The Boston Globe

Read more about the 2008 BMW 3 Series at the BMW manufacturer web site.

Published on Friday, May 30, 2008 - Email to a friend

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