2009 BMW 3-Series Wagon
- 2008 BMW 3-Series Wagon
Based on analysis of 19 3-Series-Wagon reviews and test drives.
BMW 3-Series Wagon - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 BMW 3-Series Wagon ranks 1 out of 7 Luxury Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives of the BMW 3-Series Wagon, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The BMW 3-Series wagon is praised for its combination of comfort and luxury, as well as excellent handling capabilities. What's more, its cargo hold makes it practical for everyday use.
The BMW 328i and 328i xDrive wagons adopt subtle, yet much welcomed, stylistic changes to their exterior and interior designs for 2009, and remain the benchmark for their class. According to Edmunds, "The 3 Series' long-running double act is truly extraordinary: It speaks the language of driving enthusiasts, yet its upscale image and comfortable interior give it unrivaled mass appeal." Indeed, the 3-Series wagon is admired for its practical, yet luxurious, cabin and outstanding road performance.
While shopping for a luxury wagon, be sure to check out the Audi A4 Avant. Like the 3-Series Wagon, critics take issue with its complicated multi-media interface system, but its sleek exterior design and first-rate safety scores more than make up for that fault. Plus, all-wheel drive is standard on all of its trims.
The 3-Series wagon is available in two trims: the 328i and all-wheel drive 328i xDrive. Coupe and Convertible body styles are also offered.
- "Now in its fifth generation, BMW's 3 Series carries on as one of the world's premier driving machines." -- Kelley Blue Book
- "With dynamic capabilities second to none, the 3-Series remains the benchmark for sporty compacts. A full complement of body styles and available all-wheel drive add to the appeal. Base prices are reasonable for this class, though BMW charges extra for popular amenities many competitors include as standard equipment. Feature for feature it may end up costing more than some rivals, but the 3-Series is a 2008 Best Buy for its resolute focus on balanced performance." -- Consumer Guide
- "The same dynamic goodness that makes the 3-series sedan the envy of most automakers, but with a more practical cargo area." -- Car and Driver
- "Buy the 3 Series Wagon if you want a sporty, premium compact wagon that's fun to drive and has style." -- Forbes
3-Series-Wagon Performance - 8.9 (Very Good)
Test drivers admire the 3-Series wagon's smooth engine and superb handling dynamics. According to Kelley Blue Book, "[The] BMW 3 Series emphasizes precise handling by augmenting its well-tuned suspension with the comprehensive Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system." In fact, it handles so well that the Detroit News compares it to a "sport sedan." continue
3-Series-Wagon Exterior - NA
The 3-Series wagon receives a slight makeover for the 2009 model year, leaving Edmunds to compare its new look to the 3-Series convertible. continue
3-Series-Wagon Interior - 7.8 (Good)
Critics are pleased with the 3-Series wagon's comfortable front seats and interior fit and finish, but complain of cramped quarters in the rear, as well as ill placed and complicated controls. "BMW's odd turn-signal actuation drew some complaints, and in some cases, the steering wheel cut off the driver's view of the turn-signal indicator lamps," reports Consumer Guide. Reviewers also note problems with the 3-Series' iDrive multi-media interface. continue
3-Series-Wagon Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The BMW 3-Series wagon performs well in both federal government and insurance industry crash tests. What's more, it features a wide array of standard safety equipment -- including front and side airbags. The 328i xDrive adds an all-wheel drive system to the mix. continue
3-Series-Wagon Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2009 BMW 3-Series Wagon reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 3-Series wagon carries a four-year/50,000 mile limited warranty. continue
