With over 20 million models bought since its debut 5 a long time in the past, the 3 Sequence is BMW’s most profitable mannequin, persistently setting the benchmark for sports activities sedans with its flawless mixture of efficiency, consolation, luxurious, expertise, and high quality. Moreover, it additionally stays surprisingly reasonably priced.
The 330i, for instance, begins at $47,500—a worth remarkably near the common transaction worth (ATP) for all new vehicles in America ($48,907). In fact, upgrading to the 330i xDrive ($49,500) or the 340i ($61,700) and including choices such because the Driving Help Skilled Package deal ($1,700) and Premium Package deal ($1,550-$1,950) may push the worth to $55,000-$65,000. Even then, that’s corresponding to the ATP of luxurious vehicles ($58,247).
However what in regards to the competitors? How do different compact luxurious sedans measure up in opposition to the G20’s worth/worth proposition? This text goals to reply that.
European Rivals
The G20’s fundamental rivals are the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Audi A5, with MSRPs of $48,450 and $49,700, respectively. Whereas the worth distinction is minimal, the three Sequence stays our high suggestion. In spite of everything, Automobile and Driver locations the G20 3 Sequence on the high of its checklist for luxurious sedans beneath $50,000, forward of the A5. Whereas Edmunds charges it as the perfect luxurious compact sedan, forward of the C-Class.
Admittedly, extra reasonably priced European options have additionally existed, such because the Alfa Romeo Giulia (Motor Pattern’s 2018 Automobile of the Yr) and the Volvo S60, however each have reached the top of their lifecycle.
Asian Rivals
The Lexus IS ($41,830) and ES ($43,435) are each cheaper than the three Sequence and maybe provide higher high quality and dependability. That is validated by J.D. Energy’s 2025 Preliminary High quality Examine, which named Lexus the highest-rated model and the IS the highest-rated compact premium automotive.
In the meantime, there’s additionally the Acura Integra ($33,000) and the Genesis G70 ($42,500). Notably, the G70 received Motor Pattern’s 2019 Automobile of the Yr title, albeit it lacks the identify recognition that the three Sequence enjoys.
American Rivals
The three Sequence’ most important American rival is probably the Tesla Mannequin 3 ($42,490). The latter stands out for its extremely superior digital interface and a powerful electrical powertrain that gives a 363-mile vary and a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. Whereas high quality and reliability do stay a priority, the Mannequin 3 comprehensively outsells the three Sequence with 189,903 deliveries final yr (in comparison with the G20’s 31,330 models).
What about Cadillac? Effectively, with an MSRP of $35,600, the Cadillac CT4 undercuts the three Sequence by over $10,000. The truth is, price-wise, Cadillac’s competitor to the three Sequence is the CT5 ($48,600), which is positioned in opposition to the 5 Sequence. Nonetheless, this discounted worth doesn’t mirror higher worth for cash—if something, it simply tells you ways weak the Cadillac model has turn into.
Conclusion
A lot of the 3 Sequence’ rivals have a decrease MSRP, however not all of them present higher worth. For a digitally centered and sustainable possibility, the Mannequin 3 is the clear alternative. The Lexus IS, in the meantime, ensures segment-leading high quality and reliability. Lastly, the C-Class and the A5 are the closest to the three Sequence by way of the general package deal.
Our choose will all the time be the G20. Even on the finish of its lifecycle, it stays a really spectacular car. The M340i, particularly, is arguably the perfect every day driver a few of us right here at BMWBLOG have ever gotten our fingers on.
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