Used BMW 3 Series for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.5 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,700
Average Price: Around £19,000

BMW 3 Series (2019-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Sharp steering and agile handling	Sporty suspension makes for a firm ride
Fuel-sipping diesels and plug-in hybrid	Not as roomy as some cheaper mainstream rivals
Beautifully finished cabin	Restricted engine choice if you want a manual gearbox

Quick Summary

The BMW 3 Series has long been the benchmark in the sporty executive car class, famed for its blend of upmarket image, quality, and an engaging driving experience. This latest generation (2019-present) continues that legacy, competing fiercely with the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It offers a practical package for families, with a 480-litre boot in the saloon and 500 litres in the Touring estate, all wrapped in a beautifully finished, high-quality interior that feels a class above many rivals.

What truly sets the 3 Series apart is its drive. With sharp steering and agile handling, it offers a precision that few rivals can match. This sportiness comes at the cost of a firm ride, particularly on M Sport models without optional adaptive suspension. A wide range of excellent petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid (330e) engines offer strong performance and impressive efficiency, with many using timing chains to reduce maintenance costs. Despite its firm ride, it remains a superbly well-rounded and desirable executive car.

Best for: Drivers who prioritise handling and performance, those wanting a premium cabin feel, and buyers seeking strong brand image combined with decent practicality.

Not ideal for: Buyers whose top priority is a comfortable, soft ride, or those needing maximum interior and boot space for the money.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the 3 Series if: You want the best-driving car in the executive class, appreciate a high-quality interior, and value a premium badge.

Consider alternatives if: Ride comfort is more important to you than sharp handling, or you require the practicality of a larger estate or hatchback.

Competitive Position: The BMW 3 Series (2019-present) solidifies its position as the driver's choice in the compact executive segment. While rivals like the Mercedes C-Class may offer more comfort, the 3 Series' blend of dynamic excellence, engine efficiency, and interior quality makes it the benchmark for those who love to drive. Its only significant compromise is a firm ride, which may deter some buyers.

Read our full BMW 3 Series Review

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