With over 20 million models bought since its debut 5 many years in the past, the 3 Sequence is BMW’s most profitable mannequin, constantly 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). After all, upgrading to the 330i xDrive ($49,500) or the 340i ($61,700) and including choices such because the Driving Help Skilled Bundle ($1,700) and Premium Bundle ($1,550-$1,950) might push the value to $55,000-$65,000. Even then, that’s corresponding to the ATP of luxurious vehicles ($58,247).
However what concerning the competitors? How do different compact luxurious sedans measure up towards the G20’s worth/worth proposition? This text goals to reply that.
European Opponents
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 value distinction is minimal, the three Sequence stays our prime advice. In spite of everything, Automotive and Driver locations the G20 3 Sequence on the prime of its record for luxurious sedans underneath $50,000, forward of the A5. Whereas Edmunds charges it as the most effective 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 Automotive of the 12 months) and the Volvo S60, however each have reached the tip of their lifecycle.
Asian Opponents
The Lexus IS ($41,830) and ES ($43,435) are each cheaper than the three Sequence and maybe supply 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 automobile.
In the meantime, there’s additionally the Acura Integra ($33,000) and the Genesis G70 ($42,500). Notably, the G70 gained Motor Pattern’s 2019 Automotive of the 12 months title, albeit it lacks the identify recognition that the three Sequence enjoys.
American Opponents
The three Sequence’ most vital American rival is maybe the Tesla Mannequin 3 ($42,490). The latter stands out for its extremely superior digital interface and a powerful electrical powertrain that provides 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. In actual fact, price-wise, Cadillac’s competitor to the three Sequence is the CT5 ($48,600), which is positioned towards the 5 Sequence. Nonetheless, this discounted worth doesn’t replicate 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 targeted and sustainable choice, 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 at all times be the G20. Even on the finish of its lifecycle, it stays a really spectacular automobile. The M340i, particularly, is arguably the most effective each day driver a few of us right here at BMWBLOG have ever gotten our palms on.
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