The 3 Series is a classic company car in Belgium, and it shows on the used market: lots of well-equipped saloons and Touring estates, often with high mileage. It suits drivers who cover a lot of ground, enjoy rear-wheel drive and want a practical estate without moving to an SUV.
Two recent generations dominate. The F30 (saloon) and F31 (Touring), from 2012 to 2019, are mostly 318d and 320d, with some 320i, 330i and the 330e plug-in hybrid. The G20 and G21 (since 2019) have a more modern cabin, very often an automatic gearbox, diesels still on offer and a more refined 330e. xDrive all-wheel drive is available on several versions.
What to check before buying
- The full service history: a former lease car often has its invoices at the dealer.
- A Car-Pass less than two months old with its QR code, and interior wear compared with the mileage.
- The Euro 6 standard on a diesel, required in the Brussels LEZ. Antwerp and Ghent have their own rules.
- On a 330e, the battery health when the Car-Pass shows it, and a test in electric mode.
Looking for an older 3 Series, like an E46 or E30? That is another world, the youngtimer one, with its own plate and tax rules.