Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 BMW 3 Series
With an overall Carivo score of 7.5/10, the 2016 BMW 3 Series earns a Recommended rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.2/10, while Reliability at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.6/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 8.1/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
The 8.0/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a sedan you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology scores 8.2/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $33,744–$45,243, 22 MPG, seating 5, the BMW 3 Series sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Think of the 2016 BMW 3 Series as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in value and reliability are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2016 BMW 3 Series ranks #585 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 55% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $33,744 starting price is about 22% above the segment's median of $27,664.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which 3 Series Year Should You Buy?
Across the 3 Series model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2016 BMW 3 Series
Is the 2016 BMW 3 Series reliable?
We rate the 2016 BMW 3 Series's reliability 6.6/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2016 BMW 3 Series worth buying?
It scores 7.5/10 overall, ranking #585 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 55% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2016 BMW 3 Series cost?
The 2016 BMW 3 Series starts at $33,744 and ranges up to $45,243 across trims (MSRP when new). At 22 MPG, expect roughly $2,386/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which 3 Series years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest 3 Series years we've rated are 2014 (7.0/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.9/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — BMW 3 Series
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More BMW Reviews
Explore the full lineup of BMW models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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