BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$114,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$114,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

1994-Present

Years produced

1975-Present

MSRP

$114,500

MSRP

$45,950

Average price

$49,565

Average price

$21,889

Listings

5230

Listings

9234

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Impressive technology
  • Premium interior materials
  • Impressive electric range
Cons
  • Doesn’t qualify for federal tax rebate
  • Very expensive
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Snug interior
  • Front seat comfort on longer trips, hot days
  • Confusing, inconsistent names for technology

Reviews Summary

When it comes to good design, even better luxury, and stellar performance, it’s tough to beat the three-pointed star. The S-Class is a few years into its latest generation, but Mercedes trotted out a new powertrain for 2023. It’s not a full battery-electric vehicle, for that you’ll want the EQS, but for many consumers the plug-in hybrid can be a convenient stop-gap for those not ready to commit to leaving the gas station behind for good.

Reviews Summary

To enjoy driving a new 3 Series, you don’t need to upgrade to the M340i or the M3, though we certainly wouldn’t discourage you if those models are within your budget. Instead, try the standard 330i with the M Sport Package. It’s surprisingly satisfying. Plus, minor updates and refinements make the 2025 3 Series better than ever. However, the plug-in hybrid powertrain is gone, so for that, you’ll need to find a leftover 2024.

Verdict: The 2025 BMW 3 Series isn’t perfect, but it’s perfectly enjoyable to drive. Also, for a car nearing the end of its current generation, it offers remarkably advanced technology. A redesign is coming soon, but the current version remains one of our favorites.

No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.0L 429 hp I6

Engine

2.0L 255 hp I4

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

429 hp @ 6100 rpm

Horsepower

255 hp @ 4700 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

28

MPG Highway

28

MPG Highway

35
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$114,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$114,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
1994-Present
1975-Present
MSRP
$114,500
$45,950
Average price
$49,565
$21,889
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.7
4.5
Expert reviews

8.5 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Impressive technology
  • Premium interior materials
  • Impressive electric range
Cons
  • Doesn’t qualify for federal tax rebate
  • Very expensive
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Snug interior
  • Front seat comfort on longer trips, hot days
  • Confusing, inconsistent names for technology
Summary
When it comes to good design, even better luxury, and stellar performance, it’s tough to beat the three-pointed star. The S-Class is a few years into its latest generation, but Mercedes trotted out a new powertrain for 2023. It’s not a full battery-electric vehicle, for that you’ll want the EQS, but for many consumers the plug-in hybrid can be a convenient stop-gap for those not ready to commit to leaving the gas station behind for good.

To enjoy driving a new 3 Series, you don’t need to upgrade to the M340i or the M3, though we certainly wouldn’t discourage you if those models are within your budget. Instead, try the standard 330i with the M Sport Package. It’s surprisingly satisfying. Plus, minor updates and refinements make the 2025 3 Series better than ever. However, the plug-in hybrid powertrain is gone, so for that, you’ll need to find a leftover 2024.

Verdict: The 2025 BMW 3 Series isn’t perfect, but it’s perfectly enjoyable to drive. Also, for a car nearing the end of its current generation, it offers remarkably advanced technology. A redesign is coming soon, but the current version remains one of our favorites.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.0L 429 hp I6
2.0L 255 hp I4
Drive Train
AWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
429 hp @ 6100 rpm
255 hp @ 4700 rpm
MPG City
20
28
MPG Highway
28
35
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