With over 20 million units that have been sold since their debut five decades ago, the 3 series series is the most successful model from BMW and sets the benchmark for sports limousines with its flawless combination of performance, comfort, luxury, technology and quality. In addition, it remains surprisingly affordable.
For example, the 330i starts at $ 47,500 – a price that comes noticeably close to the average transaction price (ATP) for all new cars in America ($ 48,907). Of course, the upgrade could increase the price to $ 55,000 to $ 65,000 to $ 55,000 to $ 65,000. Even then, this is comparable to the ATP of luxury cars (58,247 US dollars).
But what about the competition? How do other compact luxury limousines measure against the price/value promise of the G20? This article aims to answer this.
European competitors
The main competitors of the G20 are the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Audi A5 with MSRPs of $ 48,450 or $ 49,700. While the price difference is minimal, the 3 series series remains our top recommendation. Finally, Car and driver Places the G20 3 Series at the top of the list for luxurious limousines below $ 50,000 in front of the A5. Whereabouts Edmunds rated as the best luxurious compact sedan in front of the C-Class.
Admittedly, there were also cheaper European alternatives such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia (Motor trends 2018 car of the year) and the Volvo S60, but both have reached the end of their life cycle.
Asian competitor
The Lexus is (41,830 US dollars) and ($ 43,435) are both cheaper than the 3 and may offer better quality and reliability. This is validated by JD Power 2025, which Lexus describes as the best rated brand and is the top-rated compact premium car.
In the meantime there is also the Acura Integra (33,000 US dollars) and the Genesis G70 ($ 42,500). Remarkably, the G70 has won Motor trends 2019 car of the year title, although there is no lack that the 3 series enjoys.
American competitors
The most important American rival of the 3 Series is perhaps the Tesla model 3 (42,490 US dollars). The latter is characterized by its highly progressive digital interface and an impressive electrical drive train, which offers a range of 363 miles and a time of 0 to 60 miles per hour of 4.9 seconds. While quality and reliability remain a problem, Model 3 outlines the 3 Series with 189,903 deliveries in the past year (compared to the 31,330 G20 units).
What about Cadillac? With a RRP of 35,600 US dollars, the Cadillac CT4 undermines the 3 SERI by over 10,000 US dollars. In fact, Cadillac’s competitor on the 3-series series of the CT5 ($ 48,600), which is positioned against the 5 Series. Nevertheless, this reduced price does not reflect a better price -performance ratio -if anything only how weak the brand Cadillac has become.
Diploma
Most competitors of the 3 Series have a lower RRP, but not all offer a better value. For a digitally focused and sustainable option, model 3 is the clear choice. The Lexus now guarantees the quality and reliability of the segmented leadership. Finally, the C-Class and the A5 are closest to the overall package.
Our choice will always be the G20. Even at the end of his life cycle, it remains a very impressive vehicle. The M340i in particular is probably the best daily driver that some of us have ever got into the hands of BMWblog.
