Step into elegance. The BMW 3-Series delivers a truly premium driving experience.

BMW introduced the 3-series in 1975 as its entry-level luxury car, with the current F30 sixth generation still performing well in the market. The previous E90 fifth generation remains popular, available in four layouts: E90 (sedan), E91 (station wagon), E92 (coupe), and E93 (convertible), each contributing to its ongoing appeal.

BMW 3-Series 5th Generation Breakdown

BMW began designing the fifth generation of the 3-Series in early 2000, completing final designs by mid-2002. This provided nearly 30 months for retooling production facilities, with the new models debuting in early 2005 as 2006 models. Design responsibilities were allocated to Joji Nagashima for the sedan and estate, Marc Michael Markefka for the coupe and cabriolet, and Christoph Nordmann supporting both designers.

Engine Options

The fifth generation of the BMW 3-series offers a range of petrol and diesel engines, including several inline-4 and inline-6 configurations, as well as a V8 option. Petrol engines range from a 1,599 cc inline-4 to a 3,998 cc V8, while diesel options include a 1,995 cc inline-4 and a 2,993 cc turbo inline-6. The standard transmission is a six-speed automatic, with a six-speed manual available in select trims, including the M3.

Models

E90 Sedan

E90 Sedan: The BMW 3-series E90 sedan was first released in mid-2005 as a 2006 model, following BMW’s typical sales strategy. Initial models included the 318i, 320i, 320si, 323i, 325i, and 330i, with later additions such as the 316i, 320d, 325d, 328i, 330d, 335i, and 335d. The M3 variant debuted in 2008. The E90 sedan features increased dimensions compared to its predecessor, boasting a wheelbase of 2,760 mm, length of 4,520 mm, width of 1,820 mm, and height of 1,420 mm. Depending on the trim level, the E90 can include options like xenon headlamps, fog lamps, automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats, satellite navigation, premium audio, Dakota leather upholstery, a glass sunroof, heated front seats, and Bluetooth/USB audio input.

E91 Station Wagon

The E91 BMW 3-series station wagon was launched shortly after the sedan, sharing identical dimensions and engine options, except for the absence of an M3 variant. It offers a variety of features such as xenon headlamps, fog lamps, automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats, satellite navigation, premium audio, Dakota leather upholstery, glass sunroof, heated front seats, Bluetooth, and USB audio input.

E92 Coupe

The BMW E92 3-series coupe launched in August 2006 for the 2007 model year, featuring various configurations such as the 316i to the M3. It represents a shift in design from previous generations, being longer, narrower, and shorter than its sedan counterparts, with notable design changes like L-shaped taillights and angled headlamps. The coupe, which seats only two in the rear, offers the same luxury options as the saloon. It is significant as the last generation to include a coupe and cabriolet before the models transitioned to the BMW 4-series branding.

E93 Convertible

There is a distinctive allure to convertibles that even high-performance supercars struggle to match. The E93 BMW 3-series convertible is notably lower in height than both its coupe and sedan counterparts, featuring a new three-piece folding aluminum hard-top roof, a first in its price range. Additionally, it offers a “Comfort Access” option allowing roof operation via the key fob.

BMW 3-Series: Safety

Safety is crucial in automotive design, and the BMW 3-series excelled, achieving top ratings in its fifth generation. It received five stars from EURO NCAP in all categories except pedestrian safety. In the U.S., the IIHS rated the 3-series as Good, while the NHTSA awarded it five stars overall.

Finally

The BMW 3-Series stands as a benchmark in the luxury sports sedan segment, blending refined comfort, premium craftsmanship, and signature driving dynamics. Whether for daily commuting or special drives, the BMW 3-Series remains a timeless choice for those who value true automotive luxury.  You can now check the BMW 3-Series stock list for available models and purchase parts here.