Home Comparisons Trim Comparisons 2024 BMW 3 Series and M3: Choosing the Right Trim

2024 BMW 3 Series and M3: Choosing the Right Trim

The BMW 3 Series has long been the gold standard in compact luxury sedans. It’s had some tough competition over the years, including right now from the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Alfa Romeo Giulia. However, the 3 Series has always had a place in luxury car royalty for its balance of luxury, performance, and modern technology.

The 2024 BMW 3 Series has a variety of powertrains to choose from, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. From there, you can select many options and packages to make it your own.

Prices provided are current at the time of publishing.

What’s New:

The track-focused BMW M3 CS joins the 3 Series lineup for 2024. Following a midcycle refresh for 2023, there are no other significant changes to the 3 Series for 2024.

Our Recommendation:

The powertrains are so diverse in the 2024 BMW 3 Series that it’s tough to make one blanket recommendation. For most drivers, the base 330i is more than enough. Get the 330e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) if you’re into efficiency. Performance lovers should get the M model they can afford.

330i

Starts at $44,500 | See listings

  • Turbo 4-cylinder engine with 255 hp
  • 18-inch wheels
  • LED headlights
  • Power moonroof
  • SensaTec upholstery
  • Anthracite headliner
  • Open-pore wood trim
  • BMW Curved Display
  • Memory driver’s seat
  • Active Guard
  • See more

330e

Starts at $45,600 | See listings

  • Plug-in hybrid powertrain with 288 hp
  • 22-mile all-electric range
  • 2.5-hour charge time
  • Hybrid-specific instrument cluster
  • See more

M340i

Starts at $57,600 | See listings

  • Turbo 6-cylinder engine with 382 hp
  • M Sport suspension
  • M Sport brakes
  • M Sport differential
  • Variable sport steering
  • Available Cooling and High-Performance Tire Package
  • See more

M3

Starts at $76,000 | See listings

  • Turbo 6-cylinder engine with 473 hp
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • Adaptive M suspension
  • M Sport seats
  • See more

M3 Competition

Starts at $80,200 | See listings

  • Turbo 6-cylinder engine with 503 hp
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Extended Shadowline trim
  • See more

M3 CS

Starts at $118,700 | See listings

  • Turbo 6-cylinder engine with 543 hp
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • xDrive AWD system
  • Staggered wheels
  • Unique appearance package
  • Carbon-fiber exterior elements
  • 4-seat interior
  • M Carbon seats
  • See more

2024 BMW 330i: $44,500

 

2024-bmw-330i-3qtr-front
2024 BMW 330i in blue.

2024 BMW 330i in blue.

2024 BMW 330i in blue.

2024 BMW 330i in blue.

2024 BMW 330i interior.

2024 BMW 330i interior.

2024 BMW 330i interior.

2024 BMW 330i interior.

The standard BMW 330i strikes a just-right balance of premium features, engaging driving dynamics, and modern tech. Power comes from a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine making 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Output is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. The xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is available for an extra $2,000.

Standard features on the base model include 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, power-folding mirrors, a power moonroof, SensaTec upholstery, an Anthracite headliner, open-pore wood interior trim, multi-zone automatic climate control, a memory driver’s seat and mirrors, a universal garage door opener, and a BMW Curved Display. That gorgeous curved display houses a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Additional infotainment features include navigation, SiriusXM, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker audio system.

Standard safety tech is limited to Active Guard (frontal collision warning and automatic emergency braking), automatic high beams, and rain-sensing wipers. We recommend either the Driving Assistance Package ($700), adding parking sensors, Active Driving Assistant, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning, or the Driving Assistance Professional Package ($1,700), which further adds extended traffic jam assistant, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and evasion aid.

The Convenience Package ($850) adds Comfort Access keyless entry, lumbar support, and a wireless charging pad. The more luxurious Premium Package ($2,250) includes the contents of the Convenience Package plus a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and a head-up display.

If you’re getting a 3 Series for its sporty nature, consider the M Sport Package ($2,550). It adds a sporty appearance package with a few choices of 19-inch wheels, aluminum interior trim, an aerodynamic body kit, a rear spoiler, Shadowline exterior trim, and an M steering wheel. There are also some performance upgrades, including M sport suspension and variable sport steering.

When you get the M Sport Package, it opens the possibility of the Dynamic Handling Package ($1,050). This further dials in the sportiness with M Sport brakes, adaptive M suspension, and an increased top-speed limiter.

There are two more option packages you can get on the 3 Series. The Shadowline Package ($1,100) adds extra black exterior trim, and the Parking Assistance Package ($700) includes parking sensors, a surround-view 3D camera, and Parking Assistance Plus.

A few appealing individual options you can add to the 2024 BMW 330i include remote start ($300), a heated steering wheel ($200), heated front seats ($500), a Harman Kardon audio system ($875), and parking sensors ($200).

With the $995 destination fee, the cost for a 2024 BMW 330i comes to $45,495. On a 60-month loan with 5% financing and $0 down, the monthly payment comes to $859. See 2024 BMW 330i models for sale near you

2024 BMW 330i includes:

255-hp turbo engine — This turbocharged 4-cylinder engine strikes a good balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for daily driving without being boring.

BMW Curved Display — This high-tech display includes a digital gauge cluster and an infotainment screen. Infotainment tech features include wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, navigation, and SiriusXM.

Power moonroof — A power moonroof comes standard in the 330i adding to the premium feel of the interior.

2024 BMW 330e: $45,600

2024 BMW 330e in blue.

2024 BMW 330e in blue.

2024 BMW 330e in blue.

2024 BMW 330e in blue.

2024 BMW 330e in blue.

2024 BMW 330e in blue.

2024 BMW 330e interior

2024 BMW 330e interior

2024 BMW 330e interior

2024 BMW 330e interior

The BMW 330e uses a plug-in hybrid powertrain making a total output of 288 hp. It consists of a turbo 4-cylinder similar to the engine in the 330i, plus an electric motor improving performance and efficiency. BMW estimates a 22-mile all-electric range and a charging time of about 2.5 hours with Level 2 charging.

Standard and available features are quite similar to the 330i, with a few notable changes. The M Sport Package ($2,000) does not include variable sport steering, but the Dynamic Handling Package ($1,400) does. There’s also a hybrid-specific gauge cluster with information like how much charge is left and how much electric power you’re using.

The xDrive AWD system is still a $2,000 option.

With the $995 destination fee, the cost for a 2024 BMW 330e comes to $46,595. On a 60-month loan with 5% financing and $0 down, the monthly payment comes to $879. See 2024 BMW 330e models for sale near you

2024 BMW 330e includes:

288-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain — The plug-in hybrid powertrain in the 330e improves performance and efficiency compared to the base 330i without a significant price difference.

22-mile all-electric range — According to BMW’s estimates, the 330e can travel up to 22 miles on electricity alone before the gas engine needs to kick in. If buyers opt for xDrive, the range shrinks to 20 miles.

Hybrid gauge cluster — This unique gauge cluster gives information like electric range and an active power flow diagram for the hybrid powertrain.

2024 BMW M340i: $57,600

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i exterior.

2024 BMW M340i tire.

2024 BMW M340i tire.

2024 BMW M340i interior.

2024 BMW M340i interior.

The M340i trim turns the 3 Series into a veritable sport sedan while keeping the price under $60K. Power comes from a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine rated at 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. If you want all-wheel drive, it’ll still cost $2,000 extra.

All the upgrades that come with the M Sport and Dynamic Handling Packages available for the lower trims are standard on the M340i. These include the sporty appearance package, M Sport brakes, an M Sport differential, an M Sport suspension system, and variable sport steering.

The M340i also comes standard with the contents of the Convenience Package, but the other option packages largely remain the same.

As its name implies, the available Cooling and High-Performance Tire Package ($2,400) adds performance tires and improved cooling for the engine and braking system, plus adaptive M suspension. This is good for enthusiasts who plan on taking the M340i to the track.

With the $995 destination fee, the cost for a 2024 BMW M340i comes to $58,595. On a 60-month loan with 5% financing and $0 down, the monthly payment comes to $1,106. See 2024 BMW M340i models for sale near you

2024 BMW M340i includes:

382-hp turbocharged 6-cylinder engine — This powerful engine with addictive acceleration brings a significant performance upgrade over the base 4-cylinder.

M Sport components — The M Sport suspension, brakes, and differential make the mighty M340i hugely entertaining to drive.

Sporty appearance — The components of the M Sport package available for the 4-cylinder models come standard on the M340i, including the aggressive appearance package.

2024 BMW M3: $76,000

 

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 interior.

2024 BMW M3 interior.

The 2024 BMW M3 lives up to its legendary reputation. Under the hood lies a turbo 6-cylinder engine making 473 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. To the delight of enthusiasts, you can only get the M3 with a 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. Although more expensive, the M3 has the same 0-60 mph time as the M340i xDrive: 4.1 seconds.

The M3 has a unique appearance package that sets it apart from the lesser trims of the 3 Series. It has a taller grille, a unique rear fascia, and distinct wheel options. Naturally, many of the performance upgrades on the M340i are standard on the M3, plus adaptive M suspension, M Sport seats with M seat belts, and Harman Kardon audio.

There are several options for the M3 to improve luxury, performance, or aesthetics. You can get M carbon ceramic brakes ($8,500), M carbon bucket seats ($4,500), an M Carbon Exterior Package ($4,700), Icon adaptive LED headlights with Laserlight ($1,000), a full Merino leather interior ($2,550) and carbon-fiber interior trim ($950). An Executive Package ($1,450) is still optional and includes a heated steering wheel, a power trunk release, a SensaTec dashboard, and a head-up display.

With the $995 destination fee, the cost for a 2024 BMW M3 comes to $76,995. On a 60-month loan with 5% financing and $0 down, the monthly payment comes to $1,453. See 2024 BMW M3 models for sale near you

2024 BMW M3 includes:

473-hp turbo 6-cylinder engine — This engine, an excellent match for the outstanding chassis, helps the M3 live up to the legendary name.

6-speed manual transmission — A traditional 6-speed manual transmission is exclusive to the M3 in the 3 Series lineup.

Adaptive M suspension — This suspension turns the M3 into a tremendous dance partner on twisty mountain roads.

2024 BMW M3 Competition: $80,200

 

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

2024 BMW M3 Competition in grey.

The M3 Competition could be considered an option package for the M3, but BMW treats it like its own model. This specially-tuned version of the turbo 6-cylinder engine makes 503 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque.

Unlike the regular M3, the M3 Competition is available with the xDrive AWD system for an extra $4,100. Don’t worry; this sport-tuned version of xDrive is capable of sending all of the power to the rear wheels. Also, unlike the M3, this comes with a Steptronic 8-speed automatic transmission.

Other upgrades over the standard M3 include extended Shadowline exterior trim, including a black spoiler and badging, plus standard 826M style wheels, a $1,300 option on the M3.

With the $995 destination fee, the 2024 BMW M3 Competition costs $81,195. On a 60-month loan with 5% financing and $0 down, the monthly payment comes to $1,532. See 2024 BMW M3 Competition models for sale near you

2024 BMW M3 Competition includes:

503-hp turbo 6-cylinder engine — With more than 500 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, the M3 Competition promises to impress any BMW enthusiast.

Extended Shadowline trim — This dark trim gives the M3 Competition a unique look hinting at its menacing performance.

Available AWD — The xDrive system is available in the M3 Competition but not for the regular M3. This cuts the 0-60 mph time down to just 3.4 seconds.

2024 BMW M3 CS: $118,700

 

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 in green.

2024 BMW M3 interior.

2024 BMW M3 interior.

2024 BMW M3 interior.

2024 BMW M3 interior.

The final boss in the M3 lineup is the limited-edition BMW M3 CS (Competition Sport). The turbo 6-cylinder under the hood pumps out 543 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, giving this most potent M3 a claimed 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 188 mph.

The M3 CS has a heavy-duty cooling system derived from the M4 GT3 racecar and significantly upgraded engine mounts. The trade-off is better track performance but increased noise, vibration, and harshness.

The M3 CS has a unique appearance package that hints at its track-ready nature. It has LED headlights with Laserlight and yellow accents, CS-specific red badging, and black hood stripes. Lightweight carbon-fiber elements include the hood, roof, front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler.

The M3 CS also boasts a unique interior with a 4-seat layout. The front seats are still heated and power-adjustable, so it isn’t too much of a stripped-down racecar. M Carbon front seats come standard, along with an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, carbon-fiber interior trim, and carbon-fiber paddle shifters. The M3 CS even has a unique lightweight center console for weight savings.

Additionally, the CS gets staggered wheels (19-inch front, 20-inch rear) in your choice of black or Gold Bronze. Run-flat tires are standard, but Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are a no-cost option.

The only options that cost extra? M Carbon ceramic brakes with red or gold calipers ($8,500) and two premium paint options: Signal Green and Frozen Solid White (both $4,500).

With the $995 destination fee, the 2024 BMW M3 CS comes to $119,695. On a 60-month loan with 5% financing and $0 down, the monthly payment comes to $2,259. See 2024 BMW M3 CS models for sale near you

2024 BMW M3 CS includes:

543-horsepower turbo 6-cylinder — The track-ready M3 CS is the most powerful version of the 3 Series.

Weight savings — The M3 CS is about 75 pounds lighter than the M3 Competition, thanks to the generous use of carbon fiber inside and out.

M Carbon seats — These lightweight seats have generous bolstering and stylish red trim and are still comfortable enough for the daily drive.

FAQ

  • What is the standard warranty for the 2024 BMW 3 Series?

    The 2024 BMW 3 Series is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. That’s about average for this segment. It also comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile complimentary maintenance plan.

  • How many miles per gallon does the 2024 BMW 3 Series get?

    According to the EPA, the BMW 330i is rated at 29 mpg combined mpg with RWD and 27 mpg combined with AWD. The sportier M340i returns 26 combined mpg with both RWD and AWD.

    The 2024 BMW M3 and M3 Competition with RWD get 19 mpg combined, while the M3 Competition xDrive gets 18 mpg combined.

    The plug-in hybrid 3 Series, the 330e, is rated by the EPA at 73 MPGe (68 MPGe with AWD), with an estimated electric range of 22 miles.

  • Which 2024 BMW 3 Series offers the most safety?

    The BMW 3 Series is safest when equipped with the Driving Assistance Professional Package, which adds full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, extended traffic jam assistant, evasion aid, and front cross-traffic alert.

Sign up for Autotrader newsletters

The best cars and best deals delivered to your inbox

Where You Can Buy

Loading dealers...

Leave a Comment