BMW 3 Series 2019 review
Overview
The 2019 BMW 3 Series marked the arrival of the seventh-generation G20 saloon in the UK, and it immediately reasserted the model as the benchmark compact executive saloon. Where rivals chased comfort or technology alone, the G20 blended the two with the sharp handling that made the 3 Series famous, wrapped in a cleaner, more grown-up design and a cabin that finally felt a class above its predecessor. For UK buyers it hit the sweet spot of the range: big enough for family duty, compact enough for British roads, and frugal enough for long motorway runs.
The volume engine, and the one this page focuses on, is the 320d. Its 2.0-litre turbo diesel produces 190 PS with 400 Nm of torque, giving strong mid-range pull for overtaking and relaxed cruising, while returning a claimed 53.3 to 55.4 mpg in manual M Sport form. A six-speed manual was standard on this variant, with the superb eight-speed Steptronic automatic the choice most buyers made, and xDrive four-wheel drive available for those who wanted extra traction. The 330i petrol, with 258 PS, offered a livelier alternative for lower-mileage drivers, but the 320d remained the default for company car drivers and high-mileage private buyers.
M Sport trim is the version most used buyers look for, and with good reason. It adds the sportier body styling, M Sport suspension, sport seats and Vernasca leather, plus the Live Cockpit Professional system with its large digital displays. UK launch trims were SE, Sport and M Sport, and M Sport struck the best balance of looks, equipment and desirability, which is why it dominates the used market today. Standard safety was strong too, with autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning across the range.
As a used buy in 2026, the 2019 320d makes a compelling case: a five-star Euro NCAP result from 2019, a 480-litre boot, rear-wheel-drive balance, and diesel economy that still embarrasses many newer hybrids on a long run. Running costs are premium-car costs, and the original three-year warranty has long expired, so a full BMW or specialist service history and a check for outstanding recall work are essential before buying. Choose carefully and the G20 320d remains one of the most complete all-round saloons on the used market.
UK price from: £36,425
Specifications
| Engine | 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel (B47) |
| Power | 190 PS (187 bhp) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm at 1,750 rpm |
| 0-62 mph | 7.1 seconds (manual); 6.8 seconds (automatic) |
| Top speed | 149 mph |
| Combined economy | 53.3-55.4 mpg (manual M Sport) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km (this variant; WLTP figures run higher) |
| Boot space | 480 litres |
| Length | 4,709 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,851 mm |
| Fuel tank | 59 litres |
| Insurance group | 29 (29E on some listings) |
| Euro NCAP rating | 5 stars (2019 test; adult 97%, child 87%) |
Features
- 2.0-litre 320d turbo diesel with 190 PS and 400 Nm of torque
- M Sport suspension, aerodynamic body styling and sport seats
- Vernasca leather upholstery with heated front seats
- BMW Live Cockpit Professional with 10.25-inch central display and digital instruments
- LED headlights, LED tail lights and LED front fog lights
- Front and rear Park Distance Control with cruise control and speed limiter
- Three-zone climate control, ambient lighting and 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats
- Autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and BMW Emergency Call
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (pair, pattern part) | £55 | Typical UK retail estimate, not catalogue-verified; price varies by brand and supplier. |
| Front brake discs (pair, pattern part) | £110 | Typical UK retail estimate, not catalogue-verified; check disc size against the exact car. |
| Oil filter | £12 | Typical UK retail estimate, not catalogue-verified; always replace at every oil service. |
| Air filter | £22 | Typical UK retail estimate, not catalogue-verified. |
| Cabin pollen filter | £25 | Typical UK retail estimate, not catalogue-verified. |
| Wiper blades (pair, front) | £28 | Typical UK retail estimate, not catalogue-verified; lengths vary by fitment. |
Pros
- Class-leading handling with genuine everyday comfort
- Strong, refined diesel performance with 53-plus mpg potential
- High-quality cabin with excellent driving position and digital displays
- Five-star Euro NCAP safety result with 97 percent adult occupant protection
- Huge used-market choice, with M Sport the most desirable trim
Cons
- Firm M Sport ride can feel harsh on poor UK road surfaces
- Original three-year warranty has expired, so repair bills are on the owner
- Rear legroom and the 480-litre boot are adequate rather than generous
- Diesel CO2 and tax position worsened under WLTP-based rules after launch
