The 3-Series, introduced in 1975, is one of BMW's best sellers, now accounting for 40% of BMW sales. Available as a coupe, convertible, sedan and wagon, the 3-Series can hold four passengers in 2-door configurations and 5-passengers in all other body styles.
The base engine is a 3-liter inline-6 that produces 230 horsepower. A twin turbocharged version of this engine puts out 300 horsepower. A 265 horsepower diesel version is also available. Power is sent through a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual gearbox to the rear wheels, or all wheel drive in the case of the xi trim.
Fuel economy for the 3-Series ranges from 16 miles per gallon city to 28 miles per gallon highway, while the diesel powerplant gets 23 miles per gallon city, 36 miles per gallon highway.
With the 3-Series' stylish hard top convertible, going from hardtop to open air couldn't get any easier. Not only does the top jackknife into the trunk with the push of a button conveniently mounted in the center console, but the same can be done from outside the car with the key fob.
Initial base MSRP for the 2010 BMW 3-series is $32,850, in the case of the base 328i sedan. A nicely equipped 335i coupe will cost around $45,000, while the price of a fully loaded 3-Series convertible can reach $65,000. The 3-series is backed by a 4-year, 50,000-mile power train warranty.
Ranging from the sleek and elegant coupe to the fun hard top convertible and practical sport wagon, the 2010 BMW 3-Series remains the sporty mainstay of the BMW lineup.