BMW 3 Series

Fuel economy, running costs and specs by model year

The BMW 3 Series appears in this database in 5 model years, from 2016 to 2020, offered with diesel and gasoline and plug-in hybrid power. Combined economy ranges from 23 to 36 MPG across those years, with annual fuel costs of $2,550 to $3,450 at 15,000 miles.

Fuel economy by year

How it compares

Against the average compact cars in this dataset (about 29 MPG), the 3 Series sits roughly 1 MPG above that mark on average, making it a relatively efficient choice for its class.

Five-year fuel cost

Fuelling a 3 Series for five years at the EPA's 15,000-mile basis costs roughly $12,750 to $17,250, averaging about $15,000 across the versions here. That is the energy bill alone — it excludes insurance, maintenance and depreciation, which for most owners together exceed what goes into the tank.

The range within the range

Economy across the 3 Series varies by about 13 MPG between its most and least frugal versions, which run on diesel and gasoline and plug-in hybrid. Engine size, turbocharging, drivetrain and even wheel size explain most of that gap, so when you shop a used 3 Series check which version you are looking at before comparing its running cost to another car.

How it changed over time

Between 2016 and 2020 the 3 Series's average combined economy improved from about 29 to 29 MPG. Redesigns, new engines and added hybrid or electric versions are usually what move the number, so the year you choose can matter as much as the model.

Best year for fuel economy

The 2020 3 Series has the strongest average combined economy in this database at about 29 MPG, while the 2019 is the lowest at about 27 MPG. If running cost is your priority, that is the year to target on the used market; later years may add equipment or safety features instead.

2020 3 Series at a glance

Use the comparison tool to set the 3 Series against a rival, or go back to all BMW models.