2010 BMW 3 Series Review

Specifications

The majority of serious auto enthusiasts consider the BMW 3-Series to be the pinnacle of luxury sport sedans. It’s just that simple: Most people in this marketplace start their search with the BMW. After nearly two decades on the “10 Best” list published by “Car and Driver” magazine, it’s no surprise that the 3-Series has made a name for itself.

The 2010 version of the 3-Series features just what you’d expect: sporty design, great handling, plenty of power, and a healthy amount of pampering and luxury. New options for 2010 include automatic high beams, while HD radio is standard. The vehicle displays much of the same look from the 3-Series’ redesign in 2006.

The 3-Series is offered in a variety of forms: sedan, coupe, wagon and even a convertible. Depending on the style you choose, factors such as front- or rear-wheel drive could be predetermined for you.

Why you’ll like it

There’s a lot to like about the 3-Series, which is one of BMW’s all-time best selling vehicles. The 2010 3-Series has plenty of spunk, and will satisfy any driver with a lead foot. You’ll have your choice of powerful engines, making the shopping experience even more enjoyable. In short, the BMW 3-Series remains the premier luxury sports sedan on the market.

World-class steering, suspension and braking systems make the 3-Series a favorite for passionate drivers. It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise - the 3-Series hasn’t disappointed auto reviewers much at all for decades.

It’s plenty safe: government side-impact crash ratings gave the 3-Series five out of five stars, and four out of five stars for front-impact crashes.

Why you might think twice

For decades, the 3-Series has been one of the most desirable sport sedans on the market. And it’s for good reason. The 3-Series offers comfort and luxury, BMW-patented styling and handling, plus the technological options that are desired by so many drivers. But to get all of that, you’ll have to pay a price. The 3-Series can add up as you include options and custom specifications, taking it from the low- $30,000s to the mid-$40,000s.

If affordability is an issue, the 3-Series might not be the solution for you. The Acura TL comes loaded, standard, with nearly every option the 3-Series has (excluding navigation) for a price tag in the mid-$30,000s. Comparable other models include the Mercedes Benz C Class, the Lexus ES, the Infiniti G37 and the Audi A3.

Standard features and specifications

Some important data about the BMW 3-Series:

• Fuel tank capacity: 16 gallons
• Fuel economy city: 29 mpg
• Fuel economy highway: 18 mpg
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Curb weight: 3,340 pounds
• Braking system: power-assisted, 4-wheel ABS
• Entertainment features: HD radio, anti-theft system, CD player included, satellite radio-ready
• Exterior features: fog lights, heated mirrors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, adaptive brake lights
• Leather-like seating surfaces, manual adjustable seating, power windows
• 4-year/50,000-mile warranty and maintenance program
• 4-year roadside assistance