2025 BMW 330i xDrive: Keeping Sedans Fun and Relevant

Traditional passenger cars are becoming increasingly rare among mass-market and luxury brands alike. Not only that, but automakers now have this habit of streamlining their offerings for cost-saving purposes, much to the chagrin of enthusiasts. Eliminating manual gearboxes, cheaper models or wagon variants is one example—and that’s exactly what is happening in Canada with the latest-generation BMW 3 Series, which continues to be available over in Europe with more modest powertrain options, stick-shift transmissions and a Touring body style.

Still, we should feel grateful to have such a fantastic compact sedan, which has long been the German brand's best-selling product. Despite a few miserable years in terms of quality and reliability, the 3 Series has always stood out with its distinctive design and above-average driving dynamics.

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Exclusively sold in a four-door body style, the 3 Series boasts a sportier look than most competitors—one that makes it instantly recognizable. For 2025, tweaks to the front grille, bumpers and lights give the car an even sharper appearance no matter which trim level you select. Of course, the M340 xDrive looks more muscular than the base model, but it’s not as classy as a Mercedes-Benz C 300. The M badges, sadly overused by BMW, have no place here.

Stylish and Sophisticated

The 2025 BMW 3 Series we tested sported a Portimao Blue exterior over a Cognac-coloured and perforated leather interior, a unique and splendid combination that is a welcome change from the traditional gray-black-white. Nicely equipped, with no unnecessary options, it nevertheless carried a base price $4,000 higher than that of an Audi A4.

That being said, BMW has created a modern, beautifully finished environment. Changes for 2025 include a redesigned steering wheel and dual displays with outstanding graphics courtesy of the latest version (8.5) of the BMW iDrive infotainment system. There’s a new home screen and QuickSelect rapid-access tech, but trust us, you’ll need time and practice to become familiar with all the information and menus that most of the car's long list of functions go through.

As is the case with the BMW 4 Series coupe, the driving position is impeccable thanks to comfortable and supportive seats that can be adjusted to suit every whim, a well-designed steering wheel and superb visibility enhanced by the highly effective rear-view cameras.

Admittedly, you won’t find a ton of space in the rear, as even a Honda Civic is more accommodating. However, four adults can easily sit in the 3 Series. Also, they will have no problem stowing their gear in the fairly capacious trunk.

Fun-Enhancing Hybrid Tech

Now equipped with a 48V mild hybrid system as standard, the 330i xDrive unleashes 255 horsepower. More importantly, peak torque is a generous 295 lb-ft, delivered instantaneously from as low as 1,600 rpm. This lively performance makes all the difference when accelerating off the line or passing other vehicles, resulting in more fun behind the wheel.

On top of that, extremely precise steering and wonderful suspension tuning also contribute to fantastic road manners. The base 3 Series unquestionably proves more dynamic and enjoyable than a Mercedes-Benz C 300 and matches the Audi A4.

BMW’s sedan stands out with great stability, exemplary handling and a sense of involvement behind the wheel that’s hard to beat. Unsurprisingly, it offers various drive modes designed to either crank performance up a notch or maximize fuel economy.

As you can imagine, the 19-inch wheels fitted as standard can sometimes produce a stiff ride on rough or uneven pavement, but the suspension does an excellent job of mitigating the impact. As an alternative, you can opt for smaller, 18-inch wheels, thus minimizing the risk of blowing out a tire in a pothole while improving comfort, but that will come at the expense of slightly compromised handling. 

Is It a Good Buy?

While buying a BMW 3 Series is not necessarily a pragmatic decision, it all depends on how you plan to use it. Too many buyers turn to the higher-performance models including the super-powerful M3s, solely in the name of performance and the image these models reflect. However, when it comes to daily use, especially on Canadian roads that are often less than in top shape, the 330i xDrive model may prove to be the most interesting.

Whichever 3 Series you choose, it's also important to limit the number of boxes you check on the options menu. The unfortunate reality is that the sports sedan market is declining, which accelerates depreciation. As prices continue to rise, resale values only decrease further—unless, of course, you limit yourself in the choice of options, which ultimately make no difference in the pleasure you'll get from driving this sedan.

So there you have it. The 2025 BMW 3 Series is a type of car that's all too rare these days. Even without a manual gearbox or wagon variant, it’s one that keeps sedans fun and relevant in the massive shadows of those mostly boring SUVs.