BMW 3 Series

Executive saloon (Touring estate also available) · 1975 to present (current G20 from 2019)

The BMW 3 Series is the long-running benchmark for premium compact executive saloons in the UK, with the current G20 generation introduced in 2019 and updated through facelifts since. It is offered as a four-door saloon and Touring estate, with petrol, diesel, and 330e plug-in hybrid options. The 3 Series is rear-wheel drive as standard with xDrive all-wheel drive available on selected variants.

Body type

Executive saloon (Touring estate also available)

Years (UK)

1975 to present (current G20 from 2019)

Typical engine

2.0L petrol (320i) or 2.0L diesel (320d), 330e PHEV

Fuels available

3 options

Fuel and powertrain options

The BMW 3 Series is sold in the UK with the following powertrain options across its current and recent model years:

Petrol Diesel Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

Things to check at MOT

Below are common inspection items that owners and technicians often pay attention to on the BMW 3 Series. These align with standard DVSA MOT criteria. Every individual vehicle is different, and the MOT history of a specific car can be checked on gov.uk using its registration plate.

Run-flat tyre wear and sidewall condition
Brake disc and pad wear (especially on M Sport variants with larger brakes)
Exhaust emissions on older N20/N47 engines
Suspension bushes and ball joints
Adaptive headlight alignment if fitted

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between BMW 320i, 320d and 330e?

The 320i is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol, the 320d is a 2.0-litre turbo diesel with strong economy, and the 330e is a plug-in hybrid pairing a 2.0-litre petrol with an electric motor for short electric-only journeys.

Is the BMW 3 Series reliable for MOT?

MOT performance varies by year and individual vehicle. Check the gov.uk MOT history for any specific car. Add your 3 Series to MotifyMe to track its MOT, tax, and insurance reminders in one place.

Does the BMW 3 Series come as an estate?

Yes, the BMW 3 Series Touring estate has been part of the lineup since the 1990s and remains popular in the UK alongside the four-door saloon.

How do I track my BMW 3 Series MOT and tax?

Add your 3 Series to MotifyMe and we send free push notification and email reminders for MOT, tax and insurance, alongside service history and valuation tracking.

Run a free reg lookup on any 3 Series

Enter any 3 Series registration on MotifyMe^® to see its MOT history, tax status, full vehicle details and an estimated valuation. Free, instant, and no account needed.

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