It did away with traditional perceptions of the saloon car and immediately became the embodiment of driving pleasure. When launched in 1975, the BMW 3 Series set new standards in the medium class car segment. Dynamics and driving pleasure were resolutely combined with uncompromising quality and safety, creating a new category of vehicles offering sports performance.

From the very beginning, the athletic BMW 3 Series became a big hit all over the world. The distinctive design, solid workmanship and agile handling were received with the highest praise right from the word go. However, the most important factor in the continuing success of the new series was not to be found under the bonnet. It was the BMW 3 Series' drive technology that was setting the benchmark. Due to the performance, the sporty and sophisticated engine characteristics, the transmission of power to the rear wheels and the efficiency with which the driving pleasure that is acquired from this is produced, the BMW 3 Series still stands out from its competitors to this day.

BMW 3 Series: forerunner of state-of-the-art driving pleasure for 33 years.

With four cylinders the foundation stone was laid, but the BMW 3 Series was soon to become the first vehicle in its class to also feature 6-cylinder engines. Further innovations soon followed, and right up to the present fifth model generation the BMW 3 Series has consistently added groundbreaking innovations in drivetrain engineering to the medium class segment - revolutionary fuel injection and engine management systems, exceptionally high performing diesel power units as well as weight optimisation through the utilisation of aluminium and magnesium.

The enhancement of driving pleasure facilitated by new technologies was consistently combined with fuel economy unrivalled by competitors. In the model year 2008, it is the current BMW EfficientDynamics measures that secure the BMW 3 Series' position as segment leader in terms of fuel economy and emission levels. From being a pioneer in the year 1975, the BMW 3 Series has now become an unmatched leader in terms of state-of-the-art driving pleasure.