Best value for money – BMW 3 Series E90 (2005 - 2012)

By Chad Lückhoff

We look at the BMW E90 3 Series and the variations of the model range, picking out the one that we think presents the best value for money.

The BMW E9X 3-series

The E90 version of the popular BMW 3 Series was the fifth incarnation of the model range from the German manufacturer. Largely regarded as one of the best iterations to come from BMW, the E90 3 Series presents excellent driving value, even after its replacement.

Introduced in South Africa in 2005 and replaced in 2012, the fifth generation 3 Series came in several body styles: E90 4-door sedan, E92 2-door coupe, E93 2-door convertible and E91 5-door touring (although the latter had limited local availability).

The model range followed on from the E46 3 Series, and in doing so, dropped the 316i and 318i monikers locally but introduced the turbocharged 335i in 2006 and the V8 M3 version in 2007. The new entry-level variant was the 320i, now in four-cylinder guise and equipped with Valvetronic and VANOS.

The E9x (E90, E92, E93) range was updated with a facelift in 2009 that saw minimal mechanical changes but a change in the engine for the 330d model and a power increase in the 320d model. Most changes were cosmetic but the interior received an updated iDrive system with an improved display.

In 2010, the model was revised again and several trim levels were offered; Sport, Lifestyle, and Exclusive. This year also saw the switch from the twin-turbocharged N54 engine to the single turbo N55 engine in the 335i model.

As is the norm with BMW offerings, the spec level can vary considerably depending on the original options list and specifications. There is no major variance in the basic spec level and all models will come with air conditioning, power steering, electric windows and central locking.

Model range:

(power and trim dependant on model year)

Petrol Engines:

320i

1995cc 4-cylinder

110 kW and 200 Nm

Available in manual or Steptronic auto.

323i

2497cc 6-cylinder

160 kW and 250 Nm

Available in manual and Steptronic auto.

325i

2497 / 2996cc 6-cylinder

160 kW and 250 Nm / 270 Nm

Available in manual and Steptronic auto.

330i

2996cc 6-cylinder

190 kW and 300 Nm

Available in manual and Steptronic auto.

335i

2979cc turbocharged 6-cylinder

225 kW and 400 Nm

Available in manual and M-DCT automatic.

M3

3998cc 8-cylinder

309 kW and 400 Nm

Available in manual and M-DCT automatic.

Diesel Engines:

320d

1995cc 4-cylinder

120 / 132 kW and 280 Nm

Available in manual and automatic.

330d

2993cc 6-cylinder

170 / 180 kW and 500 / 520 Nm

Available in manual and automatic.

AutoTrader's choice:

We would recommend looking at the 320d for a value for money proposition. It offers a blend of performance, comfort and economy in an easy-to-live-with package.

Be warned, many of these were used as company cars and may have higher than recommended mileage. These may present turbocharger problems so check when last the turbo was replaced or serviced. Known issues include brake servo failures, coolant leaks, serpentine belt pulleys, power steering issues and airbag errors.

serviced. Known issues include brake servo failures, power steering and airbags.