With over 20 million models offered since its debut 5 a long time 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. Apart from, it additionally stays surprisingly reasonably priced.
The 330i, for instance, begins at $47,500—a value remarkably near the common transaction value (ATP) for all new automobiles 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 Bundle ($1,700) and Premium Bundle ($1,550-$1,950) may push the value to $55,000-$65,000. Even then, that’s akin to the ATP of luxurious automobiles ($58,247).
However what in regards to the competitors? How do different compact luxurious sedans measure up in opposition to the G20’s value/worth proposition? This text goals to reply that.
European Rivals
The G20’s important 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 suggestion. In spite of everything, Automotive and Driver locations the G20 3 Sequence on the prime of its checklist for luxurious sedans below $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 Automotive of the Yr) and the Volvo S60, however each have reached the tip 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 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 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 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? Properly, with an MSRP of $35,600, the Cadillac CT4 undercuts the three Sequence by over $10,000. Actually, 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 value doesn’t replicate higher worth for cash—if something, it simply tells you the way weak the Cadillac model has develop into.
Conclusion
A lot of the 3 Sequence’ opponents have a decrease MSRP, however not all of them present higher worth. For a digitally centered 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 when it comes to the general bundle.
Our decide 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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