The 3 Series has enjoyed critical acclaim since it’s birth and rightfully so.  It has been one of the best luxury values when new offering a great blend between usable performance and luxury and that value proposition has potential to increase with a pre-owned version.

The 2014 328’s badging might be a little confusing to the BMW faithfuls familiar with the previous generation as that number had denoted a six cylinder engine. This car has a peppy turbo four cylinder.  For the average Joe it’s likely more than enough but if you are more of a performance guy you should skip this model and shoot for the next level up which would be the 335 which offers a larger six cylinder with a noticeable increase in power. When looking at the luxury category this car is arguably one of the best driving sedans you can buy in any category and x-Drive denotes that it has AWD.

MSRP New: $33,450.00 - $43,000.00

PMPR (Poor Man Price Range): $16,990.00 - $34,995.00

Current Max Savings Against MSRP New: 49%  

Current Body Style: Yes, probably have at least another year with this body

National Inventory: 599

For: It’s the ultimate driving machine for the money, it’s a BMW and gives you a handsome package that can be dressed up or dressed down and great deals to be had.  There are plenty of go fast aftermarket upgrades available for this car that could turn it into a Frankenstein beast. It’s available with a manual transmission that allows for a better driving experience which I’d argue is a better driving experience with the four cylinder but the automatic is quite adequate. It serves dual roles as an everyday driver but also something you like to drive and have fun with.

Against: Regular sightings, and some would argue the four cylinder versions are a bit under powered and feel more like driving a zippy Japanese economy sedan. It will be hard to sell your boss on needing a raise when one pulls up in a BMW even if it is the entry level sedan. There are many available at off brand dealers (non BMW dealerships) for amazing prices so buyers beware. Do your homework and get a pre-purchase inspection at an authorized BMW dealership or a mechanic intimately familiar with this cars.   

Single Poor Man POV: It’s the BMW entry drug. This one gets you in the club and delivers the BMW brand cache but you might want to consider the sexier coupe or the more potent 335 sedan. If performance is your thing save more money and look at M3s.

Married Poor Man POV: Four doors, automatic transmission, fits a child car seat, large number of certified vehicles with affordable pricing make it an easy sell to the Mrs. and she could also drive it if that means she will sign off on the purchase. These cars are super affordable and it’s not unrealistic to find a good one with average miles in the low to mid $20K range. 

Divorced Poor Man POV: One of the most affordable luxury sport sedans on the market.  It should allow you to meet your financial commitments and if you have kids the back seat is accommodating.  Your bank account will be pleased and it will be fun to drive with the added value of luxury car cache.

Curb Appeal: 7 out of 10…if you get the sport package…subtract a point if you don’t and add a point if you opt for larger aftermarket 19” wheels.

 Bottom Line: Great car the money and there are plenty littered across dealer lots that should allow you to find great deals.  As noted above x-Drive means this car is equipped with an all wheel drive layout which not only helps you get through snow but helps in rain and overall performance and handling. The interiors are also very good at any level and if you can find one with a navigation system it can change your overall driving experience.  Luxury cache, above average performance for the driving enthusiast.  For the same price of a new Volkswagen Jetta or nicely equipped Camry you drive a current body style 3 Series BMW. 

BMW 3 Series Online Forum:

BMW Certified Pre-Owned Program Details:

  • Covers you for 2 years/50,000 miles whichever comes first, after the expiration of the 4-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle/SAV Limited Warranty for a total of 6 years/100,000 miles.

  • Includes up to 6 years of 24/7 Roadside Assistance and BMW Assist™ Emergency Call, which includes automatic collision notification, and TeleService.

  • BMW Certified Pre-Owned Elite: These are newer model year, lower mileage (more than 300 miles but less than 15,001 miles) vehicles. This warranty covers you for 1 year/25,000 miles* after the expiration of the 4-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle/SAV Limited Warranty or for a total of 5 years/75,000 miles.* This includes up to 5 years of 24/7 Roadside Assistance and BMW Assist™ Emergency Call, which includes automatic collision notification, and TeleService. 

Did You Know?

  • BMW new car warranty is 4 years or 50,000 miles, which ever comes first.

  • This is the 6th generation 3 Series known to the BMW geeks as the F30 and it’s first year was 2012.

  • There’s now a Sports Line formerly known as the Sports Package and a Luxury Line to chose from.

Other Poor Man Options In Same Price Range:

  • Audi: 2013 A4

  • Mercedes: 2013 E 350 4-Matic Sedan

Poor Man Options Slightly Outside Price Range:

  • Acura: 2016 TLX (new)

  • BMW: 2013 335 Convertible