2022 BMW 3-Series Pros Vs Cons. Should You Buy?

There was once a time when the BMW 3 Series came in four different body styles - a coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. These days, you can only get the sedan, as everything else has been systematically axed from the line-up. The coupe and convertible were converted into the BMW 4 Series about a decade ago, and the wagon departed after that due to the growing interest in SUVs instead of wagons.

The 3 Series sedan continues to be a formidable presence in the segment, offering drivers an exciting range of powertrains including turbocharged 330i, plug-in hybrid 330e, M340i and the performance-driven M3. With its outstanding handling coupled with luxurious interior design and generous passenger space, this model is still one of best sedans on the market today.

The BMW 3 Series may not be the top choice for those in search of an advanced technological experience. While it offers numerous driver aids, many competitors provide these as standard features. Additionally, its infotainment system demands a significant time investment to master - leaving other vehicles more well-equipped and ready out of the gate.

The 3 Series has its merits, and it might pique your interest. But what's new for 2022? And how does it stack up against the competition? We will answer those questions as well as tell you ten things we like about the 2022 BMW 3 Series and a few things we would like to see improved.

What's New for 2022?

There aren't any major changes to report for the 2022 BMW 3 Series. You will perhaps notice that there have been switches made to some of the equipment, stand-alone options, and packages. Also, each trim level now gets the digital instrumentation panel, thereby eliminating the former analog model that came on lower trim levels. Other than that, everything carries over from the 2021 line-up.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 BMW 3-Series – The Pros

1. Three Powerful Engine Options

The 2022 BMW 3 Series gives you the choice between three strong engines: the base 330i, 330e, and M340i. The 330i is a turbocharged engine that delivers 255 horsepower. And it only takes about 5.6 seconds to get from 0 to 60 miles per hour. The 330e is a plug-in hybrid variant of the 300i that offers you a combined 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. It gets 23 miles of pure electric range before the gas-powered engine kicks in to assist. And the higher powered M340i is a turbo V6 that serves up 382 hp. So, no matter which engine you go with, you're going to get a powerful performance characterized by swift acceleration.

2. Above-average Braking Capabilities

The 3 Series' brakes are the perfect cherry on top of an already impressive vehicle. You'll never experience any hesitation or instability when braking, thanks to their calibrated balance between firmness and soft responsiveness. Say goodbye to nosediving: these brakes provide smoother stops than many others in its class!

3. Enhanced Control From the M Sport Package

The M Sport package is an option you can get that has a sport-tuned suspension. This suspension exhibits better control than the standard suspension, keeping body control under wraps as you round through turns. The vehicle remains stable and planted, ensuring some driver confidence.

4. A Quiet Cabin

No matter how fast you are going, the cabin will remain pleasantly quiet. You can take the 3 Series up to speed on the highway and still hear your music and talk with your backseat passengers without outside noise bombarding your ears. The wind and road noise is kept to a minimum, and the engine gently purrs.

5. Comfy Seats All Around

No matter where you are seated inside of the cabin, the 3 Series offers some comfortable, well sculpted seats. The front seats are particularly delightful with their numerous adjustments and supportive structures. With the Premium package, you get power lumbar support and heated front seats for additional comfort. It is one of the packages we recommend equipping on whichever trim level you buy.

6. Spaciousness Abounds

The 3 Series is spacious for a luxury sedan. Getting in and out is simple due to the generous amount of head clearance in the doorways. The grab handles are smartly placed for aiding with entry and exit. Once you're in the vehicle, you'll feel as though your head and legs have enough room, even if you're over 6 feet tall.

7. The Optional Harman Kardon Sound System's Quality

Get the concert experience in your 3 Series with optional 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Enjoy crisp and powerful audio that fills every inch of cabin space - all without a hint of distortion as you turn up the volume.

8. Plenty of Cargo Space

Got a lot of cargo you need to haul? Many luxury sedans are tight on cargo space, but the 3 Series gives you a sizable trunk to get the job done. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seatback can easily be folded down for pass-through space when your bulkier cargo demands it. Smaller items can be placed in any number of small item storage areas throughout the cabin.

9. A Capable Family Hauler

The 3 Series is an ideal vehicle for families, boasting a simple LATCH system which makes the rear perfect for installing child car safety seats. With clear Isofix anchor markings beneath easily accessed flip-up lids and plenty of cabin room to spare, parents can quickly secure their little ones in safe comfort with minimal effort.

10. Fuel Economy That Exceeds Expectations

The 300i xDrive packs a punch, offering an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in combined driving and real-world tests revealing even better performance with 31 MPG. This exceeds expectations for the sedan segment, putting it ahead of many competitors!

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 BMW 3-Series – The Cons

1. A Rough Ride Quality From the M Sport's Suspension

Experience the uncompromising stability and responsiveness of an M Sport suspension, but be warned - it may provide a ride that's too rough for some drivers. For those looking for superior luxury with less vibration, opting for standard suspension could make all the difference when taking the wheel.

2. A Bizarre Climate Control System

The 3 Series' climate control system is a complex network of controls that can be tricky to understand. Even the most intuitive functions may require additional effort to operate, such as syncing the zones with its touchscreen-only feature. In auto mode, users must adjust fan speed manually in order for it work properly - an added step and challenge which might prove difficult for some drivers adhering strictly to habit!

3. The Confusing iDrive Infotainment System

Navigating the 3 Series' iDrive infotainment system is like taking a wrong turn in a maze. With its flat physical buttons, you'll have to battle your way through instead of relying on touch alone while keeping an eye firmly off the road - because that's just not possible with this model.

4. The Advanced Driver Aids Are Hit-or-miss

Upgrade to an immersive driving experience with the BMW 3 Series – choose from advanced driver aids like forward collision mitigation and add on packages for adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring system or lane keep assist. Enjoy a smooth ride while you leverage road safety features offered by one of the top-of-the line vehicles in its class!

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 BMW 3 Series vs. 2022 Audi A4

A major contender in the segment this year is the 2022 Audi A4. Its cabin is immaculate and looks way more expensive than what you're going to pay for it. Everything oozes quality. Its advanced driver aids are abundant and easy to use. The rear seat is quite spacious for this segment, and you get snappy acceleration from the A4 45 TFSI engine. On the downside, you might not feel terribly engaged while steering since there isn't much feedback coming through the wheel.

2022 BMW 3 Series vs. 2022 Genesis G70

The 2022 Genesis G70 offers a unique blend of power, luxury and value. Its V6 engine rivals that of the BMW 3 Series in acceleration while its interior boasts an upscale contemporary design - all backed by generous warranty coverage. With every trim level comes an array of standard infotainment features and creature comforts, making it impossible to go wrong with this model.

Conclusion

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offers a robust driving experience, with enough room for the whole family to enjoy. Its standard suspension can make any road trip enjoyable and its fuel economy is suitable for daily use. Three powerful engine options are available so that you can customize your ride further while numerous packages offer even more potential value - just be sure to weigh up its less-than-functional technology! The M Sport suspension may lead some drivers down the wrong track regarding firmness of ride but it’s possible to get great bang for your buck if chosen wisely – ultimately delivering superior comfort alongside unrivalled power and luxury.