The 2018 BMW 3-Series makes its strongest case in performance for luxury compact buyers’ attentions.
Pros Classic look Wide number of powertrains Plenty of body styles (wagon!) Great turbo-4 and 8-speed auto
Cons Gets expensive, almost unnecessarily Dated interior Spartan base model Competitors have caught up, or even passed the 3-Series
The 2018 BMW 3 Series should make the short list for shoppers seeking a compact luxury sport sedan. Whether enjoying its blend of features and refinement or pushing its smooth power and sharp handling to the limit, you'll be impressed.
PROS Balances sharp handling with a ride quality that won't beat you up Engine choices offer power, smoothness and fuel efficiency Interior is upscale and spacious, with logical, easy-to-use controls
CONS Storage for small personal items is limited Base 320i model offers limited feature availability
The 2018 BMW 3-Series ranked #8 in Luxury Small Cars. Currently the BMW 3-Series has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 50 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable, spacious seats Robust available engines Handling blends agility with comfort
Cons Few standard features Options quickly increase price Uninspiring standard engine
The 2018 BMW M6 lineup loses its iconic coupe, but the four-door Gran Coupe was always the more compelling choice
Pros Arresting performance Great handling High-tech interior Sexy Gran Coupe
Cons No more coupe, not that anyone bought it Hugely expensive Rivals are compelling, too Rather plump
Like the M5 on which it's mechanically based, the 2018 BMW M6 Gran Coupe gets the full M division treatment, at least compared to the standard 6 Series Gran Coupe. That includes an immensely powerful turbocharged V8 with 560 horsepower (or an optional 600 hp), an upgraded suspension, stronger brakes and plentiful luxury.
PROS Engine makes exceptional power Interior is richly trimmed and well-equipped Front seats offer impressive support and comfort
CONS By sedan standards, offers modest headroom and rear-seat legroom Feels big and heavy around tight turns Commands significant premium over the M5 on which it's based
