Used BMW 3 Series for sale nearColchester

CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.5 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,600
Average Price: Around £16,000

BMW 3 Series F30 (2012-2018) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Really rewarding to drive	More expensive than mainstream rivals
Superb interior quality	The Touring doesn't match a VW Passat Estate for boot space
Wide choice of punchy but efficient engines	No support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

Quick Summary

The BMW 3 Series F30 (2012-2018) is the discerning driver's choice in the compact executive saloon class. Known for its rear-wheel drive layout and exceptional handling, it delivers a rewarding driving experience that sets the benchmark for dynamic excellence. The car combines lavish desirability with everyday practicality, offering generous space in both front and rear seats, a spacious boot, and the option of a Touring estate or Gran Turismo hatchback for even greater versatility. Its famous circular blue and white badge, sporty styling, and traditional BMW cues make it instantly recognisable and highly desirable.

A wide range of fantastic powertrain options are available, with both petrol and diesel engines in four- and six-cylinder formats, plus hybrid variants. The 320d is the most common on the used market, offering a fabulous balance of performance and economy. The interior quality is exemplary, with sophisticated equipment and the brilliant iDrive infotainment system. Running costs are reasonable, with diesel variants achieving 55-60mpg and petrol models around 40-45mpg. All engines feature a timing chain, reducing long-term maintenance costs. Whether you choose the saloon or Touring estate, the 3 Series offers excellent build quality, smart looks, and a premium feel that justifies its higher purchase price.

Best for: Discerning drivers seeking a premium, rewarding driving experience, those wanting a practical saloon or estate with excellent build quality, and buyers prioritising dynamic excellence and sophisticated design.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking the lowest purchase price, those requiring maximum boot space (compared to a VW Passat Estate), or drivers needing Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the 3 Series if: You're a discerning driver seeking a premium, rewarding driving experience, want a practical saloon or estate with excellent build quality, or prioritise dynamic excellence and sophisticated design.

Consider alternatives if: You're budget-conscious seeking the lowest purchase price, require maximum boot space compared to rivals, or need Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support as standard.

Competitive Position: The BMW 3 Series F30 (2012-2018) stands as the class benchmark for dynamic excellence and driving engagement. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Jaguar XE offer comparable user ratings and deal availability, the 3 Series' superior expert rating reflects its exceptional handling and rewarding driving experience. The Audi A4 provides a classy alternative, but the 3 Series' combination of superb interior quality, wide engine choice, and rear-wheel drive dynamics make it the standout choice for drivers prioritising performance and prestige. Its higher purchase price is justified by its exceptional build quality, smart styling, and premium feel.

Read our full BMW 3 Series Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.