What's New
- 330e plug-in hybrid makes its debut in the seventh-generation 3-Series
- M340i gets standard 48-volt “mild hybrid” system
- Android Auto, satellite radio, LED headlights and other previous options equipment now standard
Pros & Cons
- Plug-in 330e now available
- Some of the best engines in the class
- Superb infotainment system
- Manual transmission available only for M3 models
- Lower-quality finishes than one might expect
- Dramatic price jump for anything beyond base 330i
BMW 3 Series Overview
The seventh-generation BMW 3-Series compact sports sedan didn’t so much debut with the 2019 model year as it began an extended roll-out: The initially available fastback GT model was replaced with the M340i for 2020, and for 2021 the plug-in hybrid 330e is now part of the lineup. New 330e hybrid aside, the M340i sees the only significant mechanical change from the 2020 models: a 48-volt “mild hybrid” system is added to its powertrain to help increase fuel efficiency.
The 330i comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 255 horsepower and 294 pound-feet of torque; the M340i carries a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine good for 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet. The new 330e hybrid, which adds $3300 to the price of the $41,259 (plus $995 destination) base 330i, mates a 181-horsepower version of the 330i’s 2.0-liter engine to a 107-horsepower electric motor with a 12-kWh lithium-ion battery pack for combined numbers of 288 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. All 2021 3-Series models are available as rear- or all-wheel drive (all-wheel drive adds $2,000 to each model’s MSRP); an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters handles gear swaps.
Those looking for an ultimate driving experience will rejoice at the debuting seventh-generation M3, available in two models at up to 503 horsepower, in rear- or all-wheel drive, and with the only manual transmission in any 3-Series.
Trim Specifications
The 330i comes with 18-inch wheels, an 8.8-inch central touchscreen and an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, push-button start, Connected Package Professional (real-time traffic info, stolen vehicle recovery, remote door unlock, voice controls and more), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. The SensaTec synthetic leather (genuine leather starts at $1450) interior includes 10-way power front sport seats and 40/20/40 folding rear seats and three-zone climate control. There are numerous packages available, most notably the Premium Package ($3200) that adds heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, adjustable lumbar support, a head-up display, ambient interior lighting and the 12.3-inch “Live Cockpit Pro” digital instrument panel with navigation.
BMW Assist E-Call (sends your location and information to a live response specialist with a single button press in case of emergency), forward collision warning, automatic steering and braking collision mitigation, LED headlights with cornering, and adaptive brake lights perform core nanny functions.
The M340i adds the 3.0-liter engine along with a host of M-themed pieces, including 18-inch wheels, an M rear spoiler, aerodynamic kit, M-Sport brakes, suspension and differential. A 10.25-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provide operational info, 14-way power front seats, keyless entry, Active Protection System crash detection (automatically tightens front belts, closes windows and with fatigue and focus alert. The 330e plug-in combines features of the 330i and M430i; unique to the model are extra-lightweight chassis components with specifically tuned axles and a high-precision steering system.
When equipped with LED headlamps with cornering function as part of the Executive Package, the 3 Series is an IIHS Top Safety Pick. Even without them, the 3 Series scores a “Good” rating in nearly every category. The NHSTA has not evaluated the 2021 3 Series.
Warranty
4 Years/50,000 Miles
4 Years/50,000 Miles
12 Years/Unlimited Miles
4 Years/Unlimited Miles
3 Years/36,000 Miles
Specs & Safety
BMW 3 Series Specification
BMW 3 Series Safety
NHTSA: Not Rated