2002 BMW 3 Series Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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User reviews for 2002 BMW 3 Series
Write a reviewUser rating:
by david s
Jul 30, 2024
Car looks beautiful but it all stops there. Warning light comes on and repair will be greater than the value of the car! Salesman was very honest. This car is stacked against him. Sorry.Jul 30, 2024
by Anonymous
Mar 18, 2015
This car was one of my favorites to drive. It was fast and sounded impressive. I had the five speed, easy to drive, it handled well. I had a hard time parting with car.. I gave it to my dad in the end!Mar 18, 2015
by Brad W
Mar 07, 2015
Vehicle was trustworthy and very reliable; very little work needed during our ownership but when it was needed it was horribly overpriced. Vehicle is well made and has a nice look but is suited more to a high school or college student just too small for a family of 4Mar 07, 2015
User rating:
by david s
Jul 30, 2024
Car looks beautiful but it all stops there. Warning light comes on and repair will be greater than the value of the car! Salesman was very honest. This car is stacked against him. Sorry.Jul 30, 2024
by Anonymous
Mar 18, 2015
This car was one of my favorites to drive. It was fast and sounded impressive. I had the five speed, easy to drive, it handled well. I had a hard time parting with car.. I gave it to my dad in the end!Mar 18, 2015
by Brad W
Mar 07, 2015
Vehicle was trustworthy and very reliable; very little work needed during our ownership but when it was needed it was horribly overpriced. Vehicle is well made and has a nice look but is suited more to a high school or college student just too small for a family of 4Mar 07, 2015
by Michael B
Feb 14, 2015
Classy car that is fun to drive and expensive to maintain. Car is great on fuel economy. Use premium only and synthetic oil only. Vehicle is great for commuting to and from work or for weekend leisure. Sport package is included.Feb 14, 2015
by Anonymous
Apr 17, 2014
I love the heated seats for winter time & all wheel drive is a bonus when driving in the snow.
Sun/moon roof for the best weather options. The feel & look of the car are very comfortable & sleek. There is a large trunk to hold lots of luggage & supplies from shopping.Apr 17, 2014
by Anonymous
Mar 14, 2014
This car gets an overall "A" from me. This is my husband's and mine 2nd BMW of the 3 series and after driving this make and model I think we will stick with this series. This is a great overall vehicle: good looking, safe, reliable and a great driving machine. For such a small, sleek car, it can fit a lot of things thanks to the back seats that fold down. I think it's worth the cost and a slightly higher maintenance because overall it's similar in cost to other cars in it's class.Mar 14, 2014
by David Y
Feb 27, 2014
I used this car to commute 160 mile a day round trip for several years. I regularly got 35mpg (95% Highway miles). The car was powerful and responsive. I drove the car to about 150,000 miles with very few maintenance issues. Repairs were expensive compared to other cars but due to the fact there were not many I would not consider it an issue. the car was extremely comfortable and stylish. I drove it regularly in winter conditions and was extremely impressed with the way the traction control worked in the snow. This was contrary to what I had previously heard about BMW's in the snow. Unfortunately I was involved in a fairly serious accident in my car on the way to work one morning, both cars were totaled. Amazingly no one was seriously hurt, I walked away from the accident and actually made it to work that day (Late) but with nothing more than a few scratches on my face from the airbag. I can not say enough about this car's performance, reliability and most of all safety.Feb 27, 2014
by Dan H
Jan 05, 2014
There's just something about getting behind the wheel of this car; you instantly feel in command of the road. This car inspires confidence in multiple driving scenarios, with it's all wheel drive system, it continues to handle well in both rainy and snowy conditions.Jan 05, 2014
by Anonymous
Aug 18, 2013
All in all I can't complain. This car is great. Good handling...excellent handling! The power in the high end of rpm is good. It runs a little hard when it is hot outside and loses power but In the cold purrs like a kitten. Handling is even better when lowered and added suspension.Aug 18, 2013
by Anonymous
Jun 03, 2013
Easy to work on if needed. This My third Bmw. That should say it all. This car is all performance. Handling is beyond impressive. nice acceleration on the highway with quick response. Perfect Summer Car!!!! So open the sun roof and drive baby, Drive!Jun 03, 2013
by Anonymous
Mar 02, 2013
Built solid. Fit and finish are still great after 90,000 miles. No rattles at all. A pleasure to drive especially with the top down. Seats are supportive for around town but are tiring on long trips. Still looks great after 10 years.Mar 02, 2013
by Anonymous
Aug 15, 2012
I like this car because it drives and looks like its much newer than it is. It's one of my two favorite cars I have right now- the other is my Audi A4 cabriolet. The BMW is a great performing car and is solid in every way.Aug 15, 2012
by Paxton S
Nov 02, 2011
the BMW 325 XI is an amazing car. The sound of the exhaust as you
accelerate to a quick 60 in 7.8 seconds with stiff breaking. When it does
need repairs it is rather expensive but still worth it. Gas mileage is a pain,
but everything else about the car makes up for it. I love driving this car,
you would to if you tried cornering with it. Nov 02, 2011
by Mike S
Jan 03, 2011
325iT wagon is AWESOME! Great handling, MPG, reliability, heated seats are fantastic, design and engineering are superb, cheap parts and needs parts less often! Way more reliable than our Benz or any other german car we have owned. GET ONE!Jan 03, 2011
by Lars C
Jul 14, 2010
Handles like a dream, looks great and just wonderful to drive. Spacious and comfortable combined with quite good fuel economy for a car this size. The looks are quite a lot better than the sedan or compact in my opinion. Room on the back seat might be limited if like me you're a long legged driver.Jul 14, 2010
by Ken G
Apr 14, 2010
Build Quality: Sunroof jammed on me at about 40k and I had to replace the track, but that has been the only major repair. Even though I was the second owner and it was out of warranty BMW covered the cost of parts.
Car Comparisons: I was driving a highly modded Dodge SRT4 at the time and wanted something that would do better in light snowApr 14, 2010
by Raul P
Apr 11, 2010
Everything about this vehicle is just great. Accelerates like a champ, brakes at will,
and handles on a dime. Haven't had it long enough to comment on build quality, but
from what I've read its excellent. Appearance in my eyes is second to none, but
that's a kind of biased comment since I've always wanted this car. It's just a blast.
Will update more later.Apr 11, 2010
by Nareg M
Mar 12, 2010
Performance - good power (though more could be had from a V6. Great grip and steering feel. Only downside is the slow transmission.
Build Quality - No squaks or rattles. Solid build.
Appearance - Dare I say that my wagon just might look better than the sedan, particularly with the Sport Package wheels and trim.
Cost of Ownership - Gas mileage is around 20-21 combined...not that good.
Fun Factor - Absolutely. I was out of town for a couple days. When I came back, I opened the garage and a smile appeared on my face.Mar 12, 2010
by Aditya A
Dec 27, 2009
performance - acceleration, braking, handling is very
satisfied for 2.5litre naturally aspirated engine
build quality - it has a great bodywork
appearance - interior is very comfortable, exterior this car
is perfect
cost ownership - maintenance is quite expensive but gas
mileage is reasonable for 2.5litre cars
after all, this car is very fun to driveDec 27, 2009
by Blake E
Dec 13, 2009
Haven't had it long enough to tell you about the maintanence costs but have heard rumors. Car is built really well. It's a blast to drive. The 3.0's got a lot of giddy-up, which is nice. Bi-xenon headlights light up the road. A little dissapointed in the x all wheele drive system (prefer Audi's Quattro) but it gets the job done. Also premium only in this car gets expensive at the pump but it's all worth it for the performance. The sport package is nice too with the stiffer suspension, bucket seats and upgraded steering wheel. Of course the 3 series gets a little tight when you have passengers in the back too. It's just fun to drive at a reasonable price. Dec 13, 2009
by Craig H
Nov 20, 2009
Great car for a single person not great for a family car.Have owned since 2002 and have owned other 3 series Low cost of repair.The car loves to stretch its legs on the highway If you like the e-46 platform go for the m-3 The 325 is a great commuter with lots of power but not enough for my taste.Nov 20, 2009
by Anonymous
Aug 24, 2009
The car handles amazingly. It feels like it's wrapped around you, and you're in total control. I have a manual transmission, and this car is a blast to drive. Great gas mileage. I can go on a weekend road trip, and still drive around town for a week when I get home without having to fill the tank. Very few problems with this car in the 8 years I've owned it. It is so reliable. Highly recommend bmw's to friends! Aug 24, 2009
by Tony M
Aug 21, 2009
Like:
breaking and handling
acceleration is not to bad
body design
interior and exterior styling
gas milage is not to bad
extremely comfortable
great car to drive
extremely safe
Dislike:
maintenance (ex: oil change & parts)
Hands down BMW truly is the Ultimate Driving MachineAug 21, 2009
by Nkere K
Aug 17, 2009
The car performs good but, you can get use to the acceleration pretty quickly. As far as build quality it is as good as it gets...very reliable as long as you can maintain it. If you dont feel like you can maintain the car yourself, then expect to be paying a lot for the maintenance. The apperarance of the car is great...a definite head turner with only a few modifications and its great to drive if you've got the 5 speed.Aug 17, 2009
by Rabih H
Jul 19, 2009
A drivers car, great handling, perfectly well rounded. Although the "German engineering" was not as hoped for in a few minor aspects. A 330 would have been a better choice though as a 325 is slightly underpowered. Maybe the next one...Jul 19, 2009
by Christopher D
May 20, 2009
I have done some modification to my cars performance. It has had an engine remap, stainless cat back performance exhaust and a K&N air filter. The original output was 192bhp, was dynoed recently at 220.6bhp at 5875rpm since then. Since these modifications my car goes quicker and sounds fantastic, throaty and musical at full bore acceleration but still fairly quiet at cruising speeds. The best part about the car has to be the way it handles around bends, thanks to rear wheel drive and is very grippy, only breaking into oversteer around on wet roads, should I be too heavy footed but it is easily controllable for drifting, if I am concentrating!!
Build quality is very good too. So far I haven't had any problems with it so far (touch wood!) and is proving to be solid and reliable.
The particular model I have is actually a compact model (hatchback) and the only thing I don't like so much is that it is not an M-sport model and from some angles the styling looks a bit awkward, but I have plans to fit some 19inch AC schnitzer alloys and front & rear bumpers soon. My car has full grey leather sports seats and they are comfortable for long journeys on the motorway.
Fuel economy is pretty decent for a tuned 2.5ltr 6 cylinder engine. 27-33mpg is fairly common on typical journeys according to the trip computer. Though some parts can be expensive to buy, as is the case with a lot of beemers should things go wrong, though costs can be kept down should the car be serviced by BMW specialists.
May 20, 2009
by Sean M
Feb 01, 2009
I just really love this car! It is awesome! Not the fastest
car I have ever driven, but by far the best handling and
best for long journeys with great legroom and
adjustable thigh support! It is loaded with the sport,
premium, and cold weather packages, also xenon's. Feb 01, 2009
by Jeremiah G
Nov 14, 2008
The BMW convertible series is noteworthy for the uncharacteristically quiet ride on the road, even though it is a cloth top. While the vehicle is amply powered, it certainly is missing the thrill of turbo (at least in my case). Handling and control are top notch - the low ride suspension and wide wheel base give it great traction on the roundabouts. But the most outstanding aspect of this car is, of course, the luxurious interior and the color and profile of the body. It's an imminently comfortable ride - if you are in the front seat - and exceptionally fun to drive in the summer. The car has required no repair though maintenance is rather expensive, costing around $500 every 15,000 miles. The car is designed for high octane gasoline, and that can be pricey, though fuel economy is on par with a typical American sedan.
During the winter, the rear wheel drive control is assisted by traction control and antilock breaks. Nevertheless, I have spun out in it, so handling on ice is as you would expect from a rear wheel vehicle. The electronics are up front are mildly unreliable. A few switches have stopped working correctly. The backseat is also exceedingly uncomfortable and not fit for passengers for trips lasting more than a few miles.Nov 14, 2008
by Craig J
Sep 19, 2008
It was a BMW! It was fast, 0-60mph in about 8 secs and a top speed of 156mph.The car was very reliable, the breaking was extremely good as was the top speed, but the accelleration could have been improved as it was a diesel.Build quality was very impressive as was the fun factor it was such a great vechile to drive and the looks were not that bad either. Sep 19, 2008
by Neil Y
Jul 26, 2008
Very impressed with my BMW.It handles superb with very good accaleration,top speed(150mph)and braking.The build quality is also superb with a very smooth ride and the sound from the 2.5 litre 6 cylinder engine is awsome.It con be quite bad on fuel but it more than makes up for it with everything else.Its by far the best car i have ever had.Its so much fun to drive and it looks great too.Jul 26, 2008
by Neil Y
Jul 25, 2008
very impressed with my bmw.it handles superb with very good acceleration,top speed(150mph)and braking.the build quality is aiso superb.it can be quite bad on fuel though but it more than makes up for it in everything else.its by far the best car i have ever had and its so much fun to drive.it looks great too.Jul 25, 2008
by Ryan B
Jul 23, 2008
This car is great, aesthetically and mechanically. The car has nice curves front to back with a mean look on the front end with the head lights. The inside leather is soft with plenty of room for all passengers. Driver controls are easy to navigate and light up well. Mechanically, never driven a car with easier steering, car has low center of gravity turns on a dime with it rear wheel drive. Acceleration is fantastic and braking distance is a lot better than I thought it was capable of. Overall gas consumption averages 28-33 mpg highway and 26mpg city. I would recommend this car to anyone. Cant imagine owning anything else short of a BMW in future. Great starter BMW.Jul 23, 2008
by Brian W
Jul 08, 2008
Its sleek, sporty, sexy and extremely fun to drive. A great mix of luxury and performance. With over 220 stock horsepower this vehicle already has the beginnings to make is a powerhouse. The sports suspension with the sports package makes handling more fun than I ever imagined. It gets good gas mileage (23/30).Jul 08, 2008
by Zach C
May 28, 2008
This car is amazing, perfect handling, fast acceleration, looks beautifulMay 28, 2008
by Brian F
Apr 29, 2008
This was my dream car growing up and through college. When I was finally able to buy one, I jumped on the chance. It's a great car, but the most impressive part is the engine. The amenities aren't as nice as many competitors cars -- Acura, Lexus, etc. -- but for pure driving this car creams them all. Apr 29, 2008
by Charlie P
Apr 13, 2008
After the S2000 got a little too cramped for my old man, he bought this car from his older brother in south Florida and drove it back up to PA. He got it for six grand below blue book value!!! It has not given us any trouble at all in the two years we've owned it, and we love it. It handles great, it's very comfortable and smooth, and it looks beautiful. I mean it's a Bimmer! Apr 13, 2008
by Reg F
Jan 18, 2008
Excellent Car - Sorry I ever Sold ItJan 18, 2008
by Nikolai D
Jan 03, 2008
Best of everything, a little bit of a sports car, a little bit of a luxury car, a great complete package. Great stability and handling on anything. Tons of fun to drive.Jan 03, 2008
What users have asked
Traction Control, Brake and EML lights
I'll be driving along in my 2002 BMW 325ci when all of a sudden, these three dash lights come on at the same time. If I pull over and turn the car off and restart, the lights go away for days at a time. The dealer couldn't recreate and can't determine the fix without the lights going on. A local repair shop specializing in BMWs reloaded software and said if it comes back, it is likely the control module. I took the attached photo with my phone while driving.
16012 views
suppose someone wants to buy my car cash and meet at their bank
How much do I owe CarGurus if someone wants to buy my car cash and meet at their bank
36 views
Engine stalling
I was driving on the road than the engine just cut out. Try to restart, engine idle for a few seconds and than dies. I bought this car brand new and it is the first time this happen to me. Car has over 360 000 km on clock.
12222 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2002 BMW 3 Series?Compare this car
2002 BMW 3 Series Pricing
Original MSRP
$27,745 to $43,045Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent