Volkswagen Beetle vs BMW 3 Series

2018 Volkswagen Beetle
2018 Volkswagen Beetle
$20,220MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2018 Volkswagen Beetle
$20,220MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

1938-1979

Years produced

1975-Present

MSRP

$20,220

MSRP

$45,950

Listings

1387

Listings

9534

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

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

As Volkswagen prepares to 86 the Beetle in favor of its new retro retread, the electric I.D. Buzz, it has decided to use the little nod to nostalgia as one of the promotional platforms for its new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. With a new combustion cycle developed at VW, this larger engine offers the Beetle some extra economy for its final lap. But rather than letting the Beetle fade into iconic history, VW has a last blast to bestow in the form of a special “Coast” edition that comes with a unique trim treatment and paint job.

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

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 174 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 255 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

4

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

174 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

255 hp @ 4700 rpm

MPG City

26

MPG City

28

MPG Highway

33

MPG Highway

35
2018 Volkswagen Beetle
2018 Volkswagen Beetle
$20,220MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2018 Volkswagen Beetle
$20,220MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
1938-1979
1975-Present
MSRP
$20,220
$45,950
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.4

4.5

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

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
As Volkswagen prepares to 86 the Beetle in favor of its new retro retread, the electric I.D. Buzz, it has decided to use the little nod to nostalgia as one of the promotional platforms for its new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. With a new combustion cycle developed at VW, this larger engine offers the Beetle some extra economy for its final lap. But rather than letting the Beetle fade into iconic history, VW has a last blast to bestow in the form of a special “Coast” edition that comes with a unique trim treatment and paint job.

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

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 174 hp I4
2.0L 255 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
4
5
Horsepower
174 hp @ 5000 rpm
255 hp @ 4700 rpm
MPG City
26
28
MPG Highway
33
35
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