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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2008 BMW 3 Series

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Overview

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2008 BMW 3 Series Review

By KBB.com Editors

Now in its fifth generation, BMW's 3 Series carries on as one of the world's premier driving machines. Both Sedan and Sports Wagon variants received a major engine upgrade last year, changing the familiar 325 and 330 name badges to 328 and 335, with the later receiving a twin-turbocharged engine. Even the more affordable members of the family -- rear-wheel-drive 328i Sedan and Sports Wagon and all-wheel-drive 328xi Sedan and Sports Wagon -- offer an impressive roster of comfort and convenience touches in addition to their crisply-tuned suspension packages, standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), powerful anti-lock brakes (ABS) and handling characteristics that continue to win rave reviews from driving fans everywhere.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're a genuine driving enthusiast who still believes that there's just something special about German automotive engineering, virtually any selection from the 328i and 328xi menu could be just what you're looking for. Even at its entry level, the 3 Series package provides an engaging mix of character, quality and performance.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you prefer a suspension tuned more towards ride comfort than control, want a rear seat with lots of legroom or need a spacious trunk, the 3 Series may be less attractive than some of its European or Japanese competitors -- although the Sports Wagon does offer impressive cargo room even with the rear seat up. BMW's iDrive integrated controller that's included with the optional navigation system also has been criticized for its unnecessary complexity.

What's New for 2008

Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are available on models equipped with the six-speed STEPTRONIC transmission and Sport Package. The 328 models receive new 16-inch alloy wheels and chrome-tipped exhaust pipes, while HD radio is made available across the line.

Driving the 3 Series

Driving Impressions True to tradition, even the entry-level 3 Series offers a full measure of BMW's legendary driving DNA. Fortified with abundant power and torque, both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants, in either...

body style and with either transmission, are plenty fast from zero to 60 mph and easily capable of coping with any kind of traffic situation. There's a precise feel to the steering and the well-sorted suspension provides exceptional confidence through even the most challenging corners. While some may find the ride a tad too taut -- particularly when fitted with the optional Sport Package -- we think the handling advantages more than offset any minor comfort tradeoff. BMW's excellent xDrive all-wheel-drive system also makes dealing with inclement weather considerably less stressful.

Favorite Features

Start-off Assistant
Order a 3 Series with a manual transmission and you'll enjoy the benefits of this subtle but effective helper that automatically applies the brakes for a few seconds whenever you're stopped on a hill to help prevent the car from rolling backwards while you engage first gear.

Optional Active Steering
This high-tech adjunct to the standard power steering varies the effective turning ratio to correspond with vehicle velocity, making it easier to maneuver at low speeds while enhancing stability under freeway cruising conditions.

2008 BMW 3 Series Details

Interior

Although slightly roomier than any of its predecessors, the 2008 BMW 3 Series remains a compact sedan that provides better accommodations in its firm but comfortably supportive front bucket seats than in the rear bench -- where six-footers are apt to feel a bit confined. The clean, elegant look is highlighted by standard leatherette upholstery set off by Burl Walnut, Poplar Natural Wood or aluminum trim. Legible white-on-black instruments and a multifunction steering wheel on a tilt and telescoping column reinforce its driver-centric character, while models fitted with the optional navigation package get an alternative "double-wave" dash to accommodate the central video display.

Exterior

A relatively long wheelbase coupled with short front and rear overhangs, plus a slight wedge shape, gives the compact 3 Series a dynamic flair that reflects common styling cues with the larger 5 Series and 7 Series, elements that are further reinforced by the signature twin-kidney grilles. Unique headlamp and taillight treatments help define the 3 Series' character, and the 17- and 18-inch wheels that are part of the optional Sport Package impart an even more aggressive stance than the standard 16-inch alloy rims. All 3 Series models are fitted with extended-mobility run-flat tires, so no spare is included.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

In keeping with its performance heritage, the 2008 BMW 3 Series emphasizes precise handling by augmenting its well-tuned suspension with the comprehensive Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. DSC interfaces with the car's powerful anti-lock brakes (ABS) as well as with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) on rear-wheel-drive models or Hill Descent Control (HDC) on all-wheel-drive vehicles. In addition to the expected power assists, the 3 Series offers numerous comfort and convenience touches, including cruise control, 10-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system and a single (Sedans) or dual (Sports Wagons) power moonroof. All models feature run-flat tires, dual front and front-side airbags plus BMW's front- and rear-seat Head Protection System (HPS).

Optional Equipment

Key single extras include a six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission, eight-way power front seats with driver memory, corner-following Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Comfort Access keyless entry and start, distance-maintaining Active Cruise Control, Active Power Steering that varies effort and ratio with vehicle speed, a navigation system with real-time traffic information and iDrive integrated multifunction controller, Dakota Leather upholstery, Logic7 Sound System, HD radio and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The Cold Weather Package includes headlamp washers and heated front seats, while a Premium Package brings leather plus a subscription to BMW Assist that includes real-time help and concierge service at the push of a button. The Sport Package nets tauter suspension, sport seats and 17-inch wheels and tires.

Under the Hood

Although the 328i and 335i share the same 3.0-liter engine displacement, how BMW tweaks each engine makes all the difference in the world. In the 328 models, an ultra-smooth 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine makes a respectable 230 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. In the 335, twin turbochargers up the output to 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Another welcome touch is BMW's sophisticated Double VANOS variable valve-timing system that bolsters low- and mid-range responsiveness while helping make the engine even more efficient.

3.0-liter in-line 6
230 horsepower @ 6500 rpm
200 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/28 (Sedan, manual, 2WD), 19/28 (Sedan, automatic, 2WD), 17/27 (Sports Wagon, manual, 2WD), 18/27 (Sports Wagon, automatic, 2WD), 17/25 (AWD)

3.0-liter in-line 6 twin-turbocharged
300 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
300 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1400-5000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/26 (manual, 2WD), 17/26 (automatic, 2WD), 16/25 (manual, 4WD), 17/25 (automatic, 4WD)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used BMW 3 Series vehicles for sale near you.

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2008 BMW 3 Series Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.8

Out of 10

Based on 894 Ratings for the 2006 - 2011 models.

Review this car

Value

8.8/10

Quality

9.1/10
Reliability

9.0/10

Performance

9.3/10
Comfort

8.9/10

Styling

9.3/10

Reliable and fun car to drive

By KMCO (FL) on Thursday, June 13, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 50,600

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Cornering, control, speed, fit/finish, and fun"

Cons: "Small backseat, seats in rear don't fold down"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"This has been by far my favorite car to drive ever. The car is always reliable and very stable when cornering."

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love it! fast and super fuel efficient on highway

By M (FL) on Tuesday, June 11, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 62,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 8/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "so great to drive - you won't believe it"

Cons: "BMW stopped making this model ;-("

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"It's too bad BMW stopped making/selling this car in the US - it is an amazing car to drive. I owned a M3 a few years back, and this car is probably just as powerful and fast. I bought this out of the lease when I found out I couldn't replace it - and no other car was as appealing. There have been some recall and quality issues, but as long as the car has a factory extended warranty, I am perfectly happy. I WISH I COULD BUY ANOTHER ONE."

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Great Car

By Frugal Guy (MA) on Tuesday, June 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 84,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Incredible traction and handling. Low Maintenance"

Cons: "Clutch feel. Ride is a little stiff."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this 07 328xi used with 30K on it. I change the synethetic oil every 15K even though my computer says it's not needed until over 20K based on my driving conditions. It does take 7 qts of synthetic oil which cost over $120 at the dealer, but worth it in my opinion. I replaced the origional tires at 61K with the same Conti-Contact run flat tires. The computer says the origional brakes are set to wear out at around 105K. I've never owned a car that needed so little maintenance. I drive normal, not aggressive, but not like grandma either, and live somewhat in the country, plus it's a manual which is easier on brakes. I average 26.7 MPG overall, but my odometer is off by 4 MPH at highway speeds (according to my GPS which is right on in my families 4 other cars) so I assume my MPG is overstated by the same 5-6% percent. BMW (Dealer) says that's normal as the car comes with different options of tire sizes. I assume that is just dealer B.S.! I previously owned a Subaru Legacy GT and there was a successful class action lawsuit against them as overstating speed (by less than this), overstates mileage, which not only makes the warranty run out early, but also reduces resale value. I think BMW could have done a better job with the clutch, it takes alot of effort to take off smoothly in 1st gear and I've owned many manual cars before, the rest of the gears are fine as they are more tolerant once moving. I like my daugters 99 Beetle's clutch better. I would also love to see BMW find a way to combine a somewhat softer ride over potholes etc. while maintaining most of the driving charastics. The run flat tires are a little harsh over pot holes, but I've hit some large pot holes very hard at highway speeds and had it not been for the extra wide/stiff sidewalls on these tires it would have blown a normal tire out as I've had happen before with much less impact. Overall the car runs and drives great, I can't tell any difference from the day I bought it. The first 50K miles have cost me $.16/mi in depreciation acording to KBB and will only continue to go down. I figure I drive a BMW for the cost of someone owning an economy car. While I didn't have a long factory warranty, I had a long enough one to feel comfortable the car wasn't a lemon. Overall I think it's the best car I've ever owned and plan to keep for 200K."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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LOVE my 2007 BMW

By TSD (IL) on Sunday, June 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 50,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Handling, acceleration, interior fit and finish"

Cons: "Brakes are AWESOME but need to be replaced freq"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I purchased my 2-door 328i BMW in the fall of 2006 and had to order it because it was a new body style for the 3 series. I've got 50,000 miles on it and it's been great ever since I bought it. I absolutely love it. The only reason I'm getting rid of it is because I have two toddlers and we've just plain outgrown a two-door. We actually do have child car seats in the back and it works fine but a two-door would be better. The only drawback that you can say about this car is the cup holders. Small and rather ridiculous. Otherwise everything else is wonderful. I will miss this car when we sell it."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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I LOVE this car and I'm a car person...

By Carolyn A (NC) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 27,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "great looking, fun to drive"

Cons: "expensive, 93 octane gas only"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is such an amazing car. I drive with the top down as many days of the year as I can. I love accelerating through curves and I never feel the car get away from me. This is the safest I've ever felt in a car. I get compliments every day, literally, on the looks of this car. The down side of this car is that it is not very comfortable on a trip longer than an hour or 90 minutes. Maybe it's just me. All in all, fantastic car."

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My Bimmer

By podoc19 (NY) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: Not Rated
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Very nice car that is enjoyable 2 be in & to drive"

Cons: "cup holders stink, no spare"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I got this car after loosing my car to hurricane Sandy. I loved the car I had & it took me a while to start liking this car but now that I have had it for a couple of months I must say I love this car. The only thing that I don't find so great is the acceleration. It also takes a while to figure out the i drive system. I would highly recommend getting the i drive, premium sound system & believe it or not the heated steering wheel is well worth the money."

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