# BMW 3 Series

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{{Short description|Series of compact executive cars produced by BMW}}
{{Distinguish|BMW i3}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2023}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = BMW 3 Series
| image = BMW G20 (2022) IMG 7316 (2).jpg
| manufacturer = [BMW](/source/BMW)
| production = 1975–present
| class = [Compact executive car](/source/Compact_executive_car) ([D](/source/D-segment))
| predecessor = [BMW 02 Series](/source/BMW_02_Series)
| related = 
| successor = 
| caption = G20 LCI
}}

The '''BMW 3 series''' is a line of [compact executive car](/source/compact_executive_car)s manufactured by the German automaker [BMW](/source/BMW) since May 1975. It is the successor to the [02 series](/source/BMW_02_Series) and has been produced in eight generations.

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 ("[Gran Turismo](/source/BMW_3_Series_Gran_Turismo)"; discontinued in 2019) and 3-door hatchback [body styles](/source/car_body_style). Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the [4 Series](/source/BMW_4_Series); these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series.

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 [M](/source/BMW_M) version of the 3 series, [M3](/source/BMW_M3), debuted with the [E30](/source/BMW_3_Series_(E30)) [M3](/source/BMW_E30_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>

== First generation (E21; 1975) ==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (E21)}}

thumb|E21 (front)
thumb|left|E21 (rear)
The E21 replaced the [02 Series](/source/BMW_02_Series) and was initially available as a 2-door saloon (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.
{{Clear}}

== Second generation (E30; 1982) ==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (E30)}}

thumb|E30 saloon
left|thumb|E30 saloon
On introduction in 1982, the E30 was produced solely in the 2-door sedan body style. Four-door [sedan](/source/Sedan_(automobile)) models were introduced in 1983, [convertible](/source/convertible_(car))s were introduced in 1985 and [estate](/source/station_wagon) ("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](/source/all-wheel_drive) was introduced to the 3 Series range with the 325iX model. The [BMW Z1](/source/BMW_Z1) roadster was based on the E30 platform.

The first [BMW M3](/source/BMW_M3) was built on the E30 platform. The E30 M3 is powered by the high-revving [S14](/source/BMW_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>
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== Third generation (E36; 1990) ==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (E36)}}

thumb|E36 sedan
left|thumb|E36 sedan
The E36 was sold in the following body styles: sedan, coupé, convertible, wagon (marketed as "Touring"), and hatchback (marketed as "[3 Series Compact](/source/BMW_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 [M3](/source/BMW_M3) model is powered by the [S50](/source/BMW_S50) and [S52](/source/BMW_S52) straight-six engines. It was sold in coupé, sedan and convertible body styles.

The [BMW Z3](/source/BMW_Z3) roadster and coupe models were based on the E36 platform. 
{{Clear}}

== Fourth generation (E46; 1997)==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (E46)}}

thumb|224x224px|E46 sedan
left|thumb|E46 sedan
The E46 was sold in the following body styles: sedan, coupé, convertible, wagon (marketed as "Touring"), and hatchback (marketed as "[3 Series Compact](/source/BMW_E46%2F5)").

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 [E30](/source/BMW_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 [M52TU](/source/BMW_M52)/[M54](/source/BMW_M54) engines with dual [Vanos](/source/VANOS) (variable valve timing) and came with a GM 5 speed Automatic ([5L40E](/source/GM_5L40-E_transmission)), ZF 5 speed Manual ([S5-31](/source/ZF_S5-31_transmission)), 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 [M3](/source/E46_M3) version of the E46 was powered by the [S54](/source/BMW_S54) straight-six engine and was available in coupé and convertible body styles (other than that, it was powered with the [M52](/source/BMW_M52) or [M54](/source/BMW_M54) in non-M3 cars). The transmissions available were a 6-speed manual or the 6-speed "SMG-II" [sequential manual gearbox](/source/sequential_manual_gearbox).<ref name="BMW M3 E30 2.5i 238Hp EVO II"/>
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== Fifth generation (E90/E91/E92/E93; 2004) ==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (E90)}}

thumb|right|E90 sedan
left|thumb|E90 sedan
The fifth generation 3 Series was produced in the [sedan](/source/Sedan_(automobile)), [wagon](/source/Station_wagon) (marketed as "Touring"), [coupé](/source/coup%C3%A9) and [cabriolet](/source/retractable_hardtop) 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.

In 2006, the 335i became the first 3 Series model to be sold with a [turbocharged](/source/turbocharged) gasoline engine. The E90 also saw the introduction of [run-flat tire](/source/run-flat_tire)s to the 3 Series range. Consequently, cars with run flats are not equipped with spare tires.

The E90/E92/E93 [M3](/source/BMW_M3) was powered by the [BMW S65](/source/BMW_S65) V8 engine. It was released in 2007 and was produced in sedan, coupe, and cabriolet body styles.

Production of the fifth-generation BMW 3 Series ended in 2012.
{{Clear}}

== Sixth generation (F30/F31/F34/F35; 2011) ==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (F30)}}

thumb|F30 sedan
left|thumb|F30 sedan
The F30/F31/F35 has been produced in the [sedan](/source/sedan_(automobile)), [coupé](/source/coup%C3%A9), [convertible](/source/convertible), [station wagon](/source/station_wagon) and 5-door [hatchback](/source/hatchback) ("Gran Turismo") body styles. A long-wheelbase sedan is also available in China.

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](/source/BMW_4_Series). A new body style was introduced into the 3 Series range: the [3 Series Gran Turismo](/source/BMW_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 |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>

In 2016, a [plug-in hybrid](/source/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.

The [M3](/source/BMW_M3) version (designated F80, the first time an M3 has used a separate model designation) was released in 2014 and is powered by the [S55](/source/BMW_N55) twin-turbo straight-6 engine.

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 | first = Jared | last = Rosenholtz |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>
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== Seventh generation (G20/G21/G28; 2018) ==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (G20)|BMW i3 (G28)}}

thumb|G20 sedan (front)
left|thumb|G20 sedan (rear)
The BMW 3 Series (G20) was unveiled at the [2018 Paris Motor Show](/source/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](/source/Battery_electric_vehicle) version exclusive for the Chinese market as the [i3](/source/BMW_i3_(G28)), sharing its powertrain with the globally marketed [i4](/source/BMW_i4). A facelift was revealed in May 2022, and launched in select markets in November 2022, for the 2023 model year.
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== Eighth generation (G50/G51/NA0; 2026) ==
{{Main|BMW 3 Series (G50)|BMW i3 (NA0)}}

The eighth generation of the BMW 3 Series lineup consists of internationally available ICE (internal combustion engine) and BEV (battery electric) versions - the G50 and NA0 respectively. Prototypes of both models have been spotted testing. In addition, the i3 (NA0) has been officially teased during the launch of the [BMW iX3 (NA5)](/source/BMW_iX3_(NA5)), which also revealed that it will be launched some time during early 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Padeanu |first=Adrian |date=2025-09-05 |title=2027 BMW i3 Sedan Name Confirmed During iX3's Reveal |url=https://www.bmwblog.com/2025/09/05/2027-bmw-i3-sedan-name-confirmed/ |access-date=2025-09-22 |website=BMW BLOG |language=en-US}}</ref> The G50 is rumored to receive a touring bodystyle (G51),<ref>{{Cite web |last=Boeriu |first=Horatiu |date=2023-09-12 |title=2027 BMW 3 Series (G50 / G51): Release Date, Specs and Features |url=https://www.bmwblog.com/2023/09/12/2027-bmw-3-series-g50-g51-release-date-specs-and-features/ |access-date=2025-09-22 |website=BMW BLOG |language=en-US}}</ref> while the NA0 is rumored to receive a China-exclusive long-wheelbase variant (NA8).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Boeriu |first=Horatiu |date=2025-03-28 |title=BMW Targets China with NA8 i3 Long-Wheelbase Electric Sedan |url=https://www.bmwblog.com/2025/03/28/bmw-na8-i3-long-wheelbase-sedan-china-2026/ |access-date=2025-09-22 |website=BMW BLOG |language=en-US}}</ref> Performance-oriented M3 models for both ICE and BEV versions have been rumored, with the BEV version (ZA0) spied testing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Padeanu |first=Adrian |date=2025-09-19 |title=2027 BMW M3 Electric Kicks Up Dust During Hardcore Test: Video |url=https://www.bmwblog.com/2025/09/19/2027-bmw-m3-electric-kicks-up-dust-hardcore-test/ |access-date=2025-09-22 |website=BMW BLOG |language=en-US}}</ref>

Both models follow the iX3 (NA5) as one of the first "Neue Klasse" models in BMW's lineup, embracing a radical and retro design makeover, a new interior layout and all-new driving technology.{{Clear}}

== M versions ==
thumb|F80 M3 (front)
thumb|left|F80 M3 (rear)
{{main|BMW M3}}

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](/source/BMW_M).

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](/source/coup%C3%A9), [sedan](/source/Sedan_(car)) and [convertible](/source/Convertible_(car)) 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 [M4 coupé](/source/BMW_M4) 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 S55](/source/BMW_N55) 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 [wagon](/source/Station_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](/source/Car_and_Driver)'' magazine's annual [10 Best](/source/Car_and_Driver_10Best) 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](/source/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?](/source/What_Car%3F)'' 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](/source/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 A-Class](/source/Mercedes-Benz_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="3" | Year
! rowspan="3" | Production
! colspan="6" |Sales
|-
! rowspan="2" |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>
! rowspan="2" |U.S.*
! colspan="2" |China
! rowspan="2"|Malaysia<ref>{{Cite web |title=Car Popularity |url=https://data.gov.my/dashboard/car-popularity |website=data.gov.my}}</ref>{{Efn-lr|Figures based on registration (Malaysia)}}
! rowspan="2" |Indonesia<ref>{{Cite web |title=Indonesian Automobile Industry Data |url=https://files.gaikindo.or.id/index.php |website=files.gaikindo.or.id}}</ref>
|-
!3-series
!i3
|-
|1980
|
|
|25,771
|
| rowspan="42" |{{Em dash}}
|
|rowspan="7" |{{Em dash}}
|-
|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
|
|
|2,059
|-
|1991
|
|
|29,002
|
|
|2,307
|-
|1992
|
|
|38,040
|
|
|1,197
|-
|1993
|
|
|45,594
|
|
|1,160
|-
|1994
|
|
|46,287
|
|
|2,183
|-
| 1995
|
|
|50,146
|
|
|2,596
|-
| 1996
|
|
|50,248
|
|
|3,077
|-
| 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
|
|
|2,855
|-
| 1998
|376,900<ref name="bmwprod" />
|247,786
|57,520
|
|
|680
|-
| 1999
| 454,000<ref name="bmwprod" />
|304,983
|77,138
|
|
|456
|-
| 2000
| 509,007<ref name="bmwprod" />
|330,604
|89,681
|
|1,791
|2,096
|-
| 2001
| 533,952<ref name="bmwprod" />
|343,991
|103,227
|
|1,745
|2,429
|-
| 2002
| 561,249<ref name="bmwprod" />
|350,606
|115,428
|
|1,803
|1,609
|-
| 2003
| 528,358<ref name="bmwprod" />
|320,029
|111,944
|
|1,503
|1,546
|-
| 2004
| 449,732<ref name="bmwprod" />
|269,216
|106,549
|
|1,771
|1,367
|-
| 2005
| 434,342<ref name="bmwprod" />
|244,886
|106,950
|
|2,248
|600
|-
| 2006
| 508,479<ref name="bmwprod" />
|289,597
|120,180
|
|2,217
|235
|-
| 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
|
|2,181
|565
|-
| 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
|
|2,150
|399
|-
| 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
|
|2,548
|531
|-
| 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
|
|2,500
|523
|-
| 2011
| 384,464
|161,614
|94,371
|
|2,315
|528
|-
| 2012
| 406,752
|175,022
|99,602
|
|3,597
|760
|-
| 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
|
|3,965
|915
|-
| 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
|
|4,237
|1,143
|-
| 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
|
|4,075
|1,201
|-
| 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
|
|3,631
|825
|-
| 2017
|409,005
|129,053
|99,083
|
|3,700
|912
|-
| 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
|
|3,396
|641
|-
| 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
|
|2,572
|590
|-
| 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>
|
|2,621
|571
|-
| 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>
|
|2,487
|543
|-
| 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>
|
|
|2,327
|529
|-
| 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>
|147,073<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=【易车销量榜】全国2023年宝马终端量销量榜-易车榜-易车 |url=https://car.yiche.com/newcar/salesrank/?brandId=3&saleType=2&flag=2023 |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=car.yiche.com}}</ref>
|53,774<ref name=":1" />
|2,847
|488
|-
| 2024
|
|
|73,938<ref name="bmw2025">{{cite press release |title=BMW of North America Reports Full Year 2025 U.S. Sales Results. |url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0454803EN_US/bmw-of-north-america-reports-full-year-2025-u-s-sales-results |website=BMW Group Pressclub USA |date=2026-01-05 |access-date=2026-02-09}}</ref>
|146,362<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=【易车销量榜】全国2024年宝马终端量销量榜-易车榜-易车 |url=https://car.yiche.com/newcar/salesrank/?brandId=3&saleType=2&flag=2024 |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=car.yiche.com}}</ref>
|47,503<ref name=":2" />
|2,548
|797
|-
| 2025
|
|
|72,410<ref name="bmw2025" />
|157,596<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=【易车销量榜】全国2025年宝马终端量销量榜-易车榜-易车 |url=https://car.yiche.com/newcar/salesrank/?brandId=3&saleType=2&flag=2025 |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=car.yiche.com}}</ref>
|22,784<ref name=":3" />
|1,328
|164
|}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>Figures since 2013 include the BMW 4 Series

== See also ==
* [List of BMW vehicles](/source/List_of_BMW_vehicles)

==Notes==
{{notelist-lr}}

== 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}}
{{BMW cars: 1980s to 2000s}}
{{BMW cars: 2000s to 2010s}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Bmw 3 Series}}
3 Series
Category:All-wheel-drive vehicles
Category:Mid-size cars
Category:Compact executive cars
Category:Convertibles
Category:Coupés
Category:Hatchbacks
Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles
Category:ANCAP medium cars
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

---
Adapted from the Wikipedia article [BMW 3 Series](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3_Series) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3_Series?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.
