Exploring cars similar to BMW 3 Series – Are you in the market for a new car and considering the BMW 3 Series? Perhaps you’ve fallen in love with the luxury and performance that this iconic German sedan offers.
But before you make your final decision, it’s essential to explore your options and discover cars similar to the BMW 3 Series.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to a selection of competitors to the BMW 3 Series, offering a detailed look at their features, pricing, and performance.
Whether you’re in search of a luxury sedan that combines style, power, and value, we’ve got you covered.
15 Best Cars Similar to BMW 3 Series: Exploring Alternatives and Competitors
Before we dive into the alternatives, let’s take a quick look at what makes the BMW 3 Series a compelling choice.
The 2022 BMW 3 Series boasts a spacious cabin with two rows of comfortable seats, which is quite impressive for a vehicle in its class. It also offers a generously sized trunk for your cargo needs.
The available engine options deliver exhilarating performance, with the car going from zero to 60 mph in under 4.1 seconds and reaching a top speed of 155 mph.
The BMW 3 Series starts with a price tag ranging from $41,450 to $76,900, depending on the trim level and optional features you choose.
It’s a vehicle known for its joyous driving experience and ample interior space, making it an enticing choice for many.
However, it’s essential to note that the cabin’s quality may not match up to some of its luxury small car rivals.
One of the standout features of the BMW 3 Series is its spacious trunk and comfortable seating. This compact luxury sedan offers two rows of seats that provide ample space for both driver and passengers.
The BMW 3 Series also boasts a range of powerful engine options, ensuring that you can find a configuration that suits your performance preferences.
So, before you make your decision, it’s essential to consider some alternatives and competitors to ensure you’re making the right choice for your needs.
Read also: Cars Similar to BMW 2 Series
1. Acura ILX – The Subcompact Premium Sensation
If you’re looking for a subcompact premium sedan that won’t break the bank, the 2022 Acura ILX deserves your attention.
With an MSRP ranging from $26,500 to $32,400, the ILX offers an attractive blend of affordability and luxury.
The 2022 ILX lineup boasts four distinct models, each designed to cater to various preferences.
Notably, the top-tier package introduces boosted infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems, enhancing the vehicle’s overall value.
Under the hood, you’ll find a potent 201-horsepower four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers remarkable fuel efficiency while ensuring a comfortable ride.
The ILX is front-wheel drive (FWD), offering a city mileage of 34 mpg and a highway mileage of 24 mpg. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph.
While the Acura ILX impresses in various aspects, it’s worth noting that the rear seats may feel a bit cramped, and the infotainment system can be somewhat cumbersome.
Nevertheless, if you prioritize affordability without sacrificing luxury, the Acura ILX is an excellent choice.
Related: Cars Similar to Acura ILX
2. Acura TLX – The High-End Luxury Marvel
For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Acura TLX shines as a stylish and luxurious alternative to the BMW 3 Series.
This year’s TLX offers a compelling package, featuring a potent engine, agile handling, and top-tier safety features.
The base model is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower.
While the fuel economy stands at a respectable 22/31 mpg, upgrading to the V6 engine boosts the horsepower to approximately 350, resulting in an impressive 0-60 mph time of just 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 173 mph.
With a starting price of $44,450, the Acura TLX represents a remarkable value proposition in the luxury sedan segment.
It offers four different trim levels to cater to a range of preferences, and advanced safety features like reverse cross-traffic alert and blind-spot detection are standard on the Technology trim and higher.
The TLX has earned a perfect five-star rating from the NHTSA, further underscoring its commitment to safety and quality.
Related: Cars Similar to Acura TLX
3. Alfa Romeo Giulia – A Dynamic Driving Experience
The 2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia stands out with its dynamic handling, strong engine options, and comfortable ride.
With an MSRP ranging from $42,950 to $78,830 across seven trims, the Giulia presents itself as a compelling choice in the luxury small car category.
While the interior might not be as updated as some competitors, the Giulia compensates with its engaging driving experience.
The front seats are sturdy and comfortable, but the rear seats can be a bit tight for taller passengers.
However, if you’re willing to splurge for the Veloce trim, you’ll be treated to sportier characteristics and enhanced specifications.
The Giulia offers a range of powertrains, delivering between 280 and 505 horsepower with RWD or AWD drivetrains.
Fuel economy varies from 17-24 mpg in the city to 25-33 mpg on the highway. This five-passenger sedan can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just three seconds, boasting an impressive top speed of 191 mph.
Related: Alfa Romeo Giulia vs BMW 2 Series
4. Audi A4 – A Blend of Elegance and Performance
The 2022 Audi A4, priced from $39,900 to $51,900, exemplifies elegance and performance. With a range of power options, excellent handling, and a luxurious cabin, the A4 is a strong contender in the luxury sedan segment.
One notable feature is the robust engine lineup, with power ranging from 252 to 365 horsepower. This variety ensures that you can choose the level of performance that suits your preferences.
Additionally, the A4’s cabin offers an opulent feel, characterized by simple and user-friendly touchscreen controls.
The A4 seats five passengers and offers both FWD and AWD options. The fuel economy ranges from 20-25 mpg in the city to 28-34 mpg on the highway.
Impressively, the A4 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than five seconds, showcasing its impressive performance capabilities.
Related: Cars Similar to Audi A4
5. Audi A5 – The Epitome of Luxury
With an MSRP ranging from $43,500 to $76,200, the 2022 Audi A5 is a compelling choice for those seeking a luxury sedan that combines power and elegance.
The A5 impresses with its array of powerful engine options and responsive handling, making it a top contender in its class.
Step inside the A5, and you’ll be greeted by an opulent and well-equipped interior. Audi has upped its game with improved cabin quality and exciting engine choices, setting the A5 apart from the competition.
The car’s dynamic handling and smooth, comfortable ride enhance the overall driving experience.
However, it’s essential to note that the infotainment components, while easy to use, may come at an additional cost.
In terms of cargo space, coupes and convertibles have limited trunk space. The 2022 RS 5 model benefits from the addition of WiFi and Android Auto, simplifying connectivity and entertainment features.
The Audi A5 accommodates between four and five passengers and offers a city fuel economy ranging from 18 to 25 mpg, with highway mileage reaching 25-34 mpg.
The A5’s AWD engine delivers horsepower ranging from 201 to 444, enabling a brisk 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.8 seconds.
Related: Cars Similar to Audi A5
6. BMW 4-Series – A Versatile Range of Options
The 2022 BMW 4 Series, with prices spanning from $45,200 to $86,300 across 14 different trims, offers an extensive range of choices for luxury sedan enthusiasts.
If you seek a vehicle that seamlessly combines style and performance, the 4 Series might be your perfect match.
This BMW boasts a robust engine lineup, ranging from 16 to 26 mpg in the city and 23 to 34 mpg on the highway, depending on your choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
The Gran Coupe variant stands out for its well-balanced speed and handling, complemented by a spacious cargo room.
While the 4 Series delivers on many fronts, it’s worth mentioning that it comes with a relatively high starting price and a cabin that some might find less luxurious compared to rivals.
With a remarkable 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph, the BMW 4 Series offers both power and performance.
7. Cadillac ATS – A Worthy Challenger to the Status Quo
Despite recent management changes and marketing shifts at Cadillac, the 2018 Cadillac ATS has emerged as a strong contender in the luxury sedan segment, often outperforming the BMW 3 Series in various reviews.
Starting at $36,490, the base ATS boasts a potent 272-hp 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
The ATS’s exterior design is crisp and sharp-edged, aligning with Cadillac’s modern design theme. Inside, the cabin offers comfort and a sporty ambiance, emphasizing functionality over plushness.
This is a sedan tailored to the European paradigm, with a clear aim to compete with the BMW 3 Series directly.
8. Cadillac CT4 – Power and Precision
The Cadillac CT4, with prices ranging from $33,695 for the 248-503 hp variant to $58,995 for the top trim, offers a compelling blend of power and precision. Available in five distinct trim levels, the CT4 shines in terms of acceleration and handling.
With its exhilarating acceleration and grin-inducing handling, the CT4 is sure to appeal to driving enthusiasts.
However, it’s worth noting that the cabin space is somewhat limited, and comprehensive testing for crash safety and reliability data is not available.
The 2022 CT4 introduces various updates, including the luxurious CT4 Blackwing and additional options.
Standard features now include automatic high beam illumination, lane-keep assist, and wireless device charging.
In terms of fuel economy, the CT4 achieves 16 to 23 mpg in the city and 24 to 34 mpg on the highway. Both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options are available, featuring a horsepower range of 235 to 325.
9. Genesis G70 – Luxury Accessible to All
The Genesis G70 enters the scene with a compelling starting price of $37,525, making it an accessible luxury small car for a wide range of budgets.
However, if spaciousness is a top priority for you, the G70 might leave you wanting more. While the interior is undeniably stunning, and the ride is smooth, it packs plenty of power under the hood.
The 2020 model year saw the discontinuation of the manual transmission option but introduced updates to the interior and external design.
The G70 offers a choice between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) and accommodates up to five passengers.
Fuel efficiency ranges from 17-21 mpg in the city and 25-31 mpg on the highway. The powertrain options vary from 252 to 365 horsepower, enabling a respectable 0-60 mph time of seven seconds.
10. Infiniti Q50 – A Blend of Power and Comfort
With prices ranging from $42,100 to $57,950, the 2022 Infiniti Q50 offers a compelling package with power options spanning from 255 to 503 horsepower across six different trims.
The Infiniti Q50 stands out for its well-built interior and comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant driving experience.
While the Q50 excels in certain aspects, it might not match the quickness and modernity of some of its competitors. However, it compensates with efficient engines and spacious, comfortable seats.
The handling and ride comfort, while good, may fall slightly short of expectations for those seeking a sportier drive. The in-car entertainment system also leaves room for improvement.
The Q50 features rear-wheel drive and a powertrain delivering between 300 and 400 horsepower.
This five-seater achieves fuel economy figures of 19-20 mpg in the city and 26-29 mpg on the highway, with a brisk 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds.
11. Jaguar XF – Elegance and Quick Handling
With a starting price of $53,975, the Jaguar XF offers a blend of elegance and quick handling that’s hard to resist.
The Jaguar XF lineup comprises three trim levels: P300 R-Dynamic SE (top trim), P250 SE, and P250 S, each available in various packages.
The XF’s standout feature is its four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which is shared between the S and SE trims and comes exclusively in rear-wheel drive.
This engine delivers remarkable acceleration, allowing the XF to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in no time. The sedan reaches top speeds of 121 mph.
Standard features on the new XF include a split-folding back seat arrangement and an impressive combined fuel economy of 28 mpg.
12. Lexus IS – Bold Appearance and Performance Options
Starting at a base price of $40,200, the Lexus IS stands out with its bold appearance, first-rate interior, and comfortable front seats.
The Lexus IS lineup offers five distinct models, with the IS500 model providing the best performance at a premium.
The top speed of this five-seat car is an impressive 143 miles per hour. For those on a budget, the mid-level rear-wheel-drive IS350 F Sport trim offers many of the vehicle’s performance appeals.
This package includes 19-inch wheels, an F Sport exhaust, and a limited-slip rear differential, enhancing both style and performance.
The Lexus IS lineup features three powertrains: a 241-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the IS300, a 311-horsepower V-6 in the IS350, and a 472-horsepower V-8 in the Sports Performance edition.
The V-8-powered IS500 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just over four seconds, offering thrilling performance.
Fuel efficiency varies, with the V-6 IS350 achieving 19/28 mpg and the IS500 achieving 17/25 mpg. The IS300 delivers 21/31 mpg in the city/highway.
13. Kia Stinger – Affordable Luxury
With six models available for 2022, the Kia Stinger offers a diverse range of starting prices, ranging from $36,090 to $53,490.
The Stinger stands out in the premium small vehicle segment due to its potent engines, generous cargo space, and user-friendly technology.
One of the Stinger’s standout features is its turbo engines and standard infotainment and driver aid systems.
Ample cargo space is coupled with an attractive starting price, making it an appealing choice in its class.
The 2022 model year has seen updates to both the interior and exterior, including the addition of active safety features and a 10.25-inch touchscreen.
The Kia Stinger is a five-seater capable of achieving fuel efficiency figures of 17-22 mpg in the city and 24-32 mpg on the highway, depending on the choice of an all-wheel drive (AWD) drivetrain.
Power options range from 300 to 368 horsepower, allowing the Stinger to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.7 seconds, with a top speed of 167 mph.
14. Mercedes-Benz C Class – Elegance and Power
For the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C Class, prices range from $44,600 to $48,550. Mercedes-Benz has long been associated with luxury and sophistication, and the C Class is no exception.
While the C Class boasts power, style, and comfort, its handling may be considered average by some enthusiasts.
The Exclusive trim level offers a range of appealing features, including a 360-degree video system, self-parking capabilities, wireless smartphone charging, and a premium Burmester sound system.
Under the hood, the C Class is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine known as the C300.
This engine, which is displayed on the trunk lid of all 2022 C-class vehicles, can be augmented with a 48-volt hybrid system, providing up to 20 additional horsepower.
Mercedes-Benz claims the C300 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just six seconds, with a top speed of 132 mph.
15. Volvo S60 – Craftsmanship and Power
Starting at prices ranging from $38,950 to $64,800 for the 2022 model, the Volvo S60 offers a wide variety of attributes and extras depending on the chosen trim level.
While the S60 has much to offer, including excellent cabin craftsmanship, comfortable five-seater accommodation, and powerful engines, it falls short in terms of trunk space.
Despite its limited trunk capacity, the S60 boasts a comprehensive set of standard driver assistance equipment.
The FWD and AWD drivetrains offer power ranging from 247 to 415 horsepower, with fuel efficiency figures of 21-23 mpg in the city and 32-34 mpg on the highway.
The S60 can reach a top speed of 112 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds.
FAQs
What Makes the BMW 3 Series Special?
The BMW 3 Series is special due to its unique combination of sporty handling, practicality, and ease of daily driving.
It offers a dynamic driving experience akin to a sports car while remaining versatile enough for everyday use.
However, it’s important to note that the BMW 3 Series may come with higher maintenance costs and potential reliability issues.
Why is the BMW 3 Series so popular?
BMW designed the 3 Series to be as sporty as it is practical. It handles like a sports car, it’s relatively quick, and it’s extremely easy to drive (which makes it an excellent daily driver).
I think we can all agree on that. The major drawbacks are high maintenance costs and general reliability.
Does the BMW 3 Series hold its value?
A BMW 3 Series will depreciate 37% after 5 years and have a 5-year resale value of $31,331. Once driven off the new car lot, the BMW 3-Series loses value quickly, as do most BMWs.
For new purchases, after three years, your 3-Series will be worth about 60% of its original sticker price.
How long will a 3 Series BMW last?
How many miles can a BMW 3 Series last? You can expect your 3 Series to last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles when properly maintained.
Is the BMW 3 Series reliable?
Due to its meticulous craftsmanship and precision engineering, the 3 Series is a durable, long-lasting, and dependable car. Learn more from the experts at BMW of Greenwich.
Final Thoughts: BMW 3 Series Competitors
In conclusion, the luxury sedan market offers a diverse array of options for those seeking cars similar to the BMW 3 Series.
While the 3 Series remains a popular choice due to its sporty handling and practicality, there are several compelling alternatives and competitors worth considering.
From the affordable luxury of the Kia Stinger to the elegance and power of the Mercedes-Benz C Class and the craftsmanship and performance of the Volvo S60, there’s a luxury sedan to cater to various preferences and desires.
These vehicles provide a range of features, pricing, and performance characteristics, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for your driving needs.
While the BMW 3 Series continues to be a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment, these alternatives and competitors offer unique strengths that make them stand out in their own right.
Exploring these options and taking the time to test drive them will help you discover the ideal luxury sedan to elevate your driving experience.
Whether you prioritize affordability, technology, or performance, there’s a car similar to the BMW 3 Series waiting to fulfill your automotive desires.
