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Compare 2026 BMW 3 Series vs. 2026 BMW 5 Series

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2026 BMW 3 Series vs. 2026 BMW 5 Series Comparison

See how the 2026 BMW 3 Series and 2026 BMW 5 Series performed in our rigorous, independent road tests. Our experts evaluate hundreds of vehicles annually at our 327-acre testing facility, putting each model through over 50 data-driven assessments—including braking, emergency handling, fuel economy, and cabin noise. Review our side-by-side comparison of tested specifications, real-world fuel efficiency, and crash-test safety ratings to see which is the best for reliability, performance, and more.

Comparing 2 Models

Luxury small cars

2026 BMW 3 Series

$47,500 - $88,600

All Test Results

Luxury midsized cars

2026 BMW 5 Series

$60,500 - $125,300

All Test Results

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About

The 3 Series blends driving enjoyment, creature comforts, high-tech features, and good fuel economy. The 330i is fitted with a punchy 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder paired with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic. Handling is nimble, but the...

The 5 Series is a luxurious and refined sedan with high levels of cabin technology. Our tested 530i with all-wheel drive returned an impressive 29 mpg from the 255-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder. Rear-wheel drive is also available. The 540i xDrive...

Highs

Handling

Acceleration

Braking

Transmission

Front-seat comfort

Fit and finish

Smooth engine and transmission

Agile handling

Strong brakes

Impressive fuel economy

Comfortable front seats

High-quality cabin

Lows

Controls require some practice to master

Controls require a steep learning curve

Road Test Score

/ 100

Reliability

/ 100

Owner Satisfaction

/ 100

Overview

Body Styles

sedan

wagon, sedan

Trim Lines

330i, M3, M3 Competition, M340i

540i, M5, 550e, i5 eDrive40, 530i, i5 M60 xDrive

Base Price Range

$47,500 - $88,600

$60,500 - $125,300

Drive Wheels

AWD, RWD

Seating Capacity

2 Front, 3 Rear

Engines/Motors

3-liter 6 turbo (473 hp); 3-liter 6 turbo (523 hp); 2-liter 4 turbo (255 hp); 3-liter 6 turbo (503 hp); 3-liter 6 turbo (386 hp)

3-liter 6 plugin hybrid (483 hp); 2-liter 4 turbo (255 hp); 3-liter 6 turbo (375 hp); 4.4-liter V8 plugin hybrid (717 hp); 0-liter electric (335 hp); 0-liter electric (593 hp)

Transmissions Available

8-speed Automatic, 6-speed Manual

8-speed Automatic, 1-speed Direct