The sixth generation 3-Series wears all-new styling on a platform that is wider and longer than before. US models consist of the four-cylinder equipped 320i and 328i and six-cylinder equipped 335i. Both models are rear-wheel-drive with a standard 6-speed manual transmission and optional 8-speed automatic. The 3-Series is also available with all-wheel-drive and the range also includes gas/electric hybrid model, the ActiveHybrid 3. Shoppers of the 3-Series will need to take note of the vast number of configuration options which can quickly add thousands of dollars to the sticker price. Base models are equipped without common luxury features like power seats or leather upholstery. These items must be added as individual options or as part of larger option packages. In addition, the new 3-Series offers a choice of three lines: Modern, Luxury, and Sport. Each of these lines has subtly different appearance options such as unique grilles or color combinations. Selecting these appearance packages adds significant cost to the sticker price.

The ActiveHybrid 3 joins the lineup. The hybrid system pairs a 300-bhp inline-6 cylinder with an eight-speed transmission containing an electric motor. A 320i model equips a lower horsepower version of the 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder.