Best used BMW to buy

BMW, first of all, is a car elite, high-speed (6.1-10.5 to 60 mph), with a universal spacious body, generously equipped with devices that facilitate driving and improve traffic safety. TThe main consumer of cars of this class - the U.S., where, as well as many European brands' competitors, produced the X5. However, the quality, structural and stylistic solutions remain recognizably Bavarian.

"X5" still remains one of the most "packed" cars. Power of motors is up to 360 hp, 5- or 6-speed "mechanics" or adaptive "automat", permanent full drive. In addition, most cars sold in the U.S. are equipped with adjustable air suspension, ABS with two subsystems of dynamic braking control (SHS and DBC), the stabilization system (Dynamic Stability Control, DSC), and automatic Downhill Speed Control (HDS). The equipment of the cabin also corresponds to the equipment. All cars are equipped with an immobilizer ignition key with a built-in microchip, climate control with charcoal filter, onboard computer with a large multimedia screen, eight airbags, leather, and natural wood.

After restyling in 2004, the car has changed not so much its appearance, as the character. Fourth-wheel drive xDrive, borrowed from novelty BMW X3, has become "intellectual" - a multi disc clutch with electronic management has appeared instead of free cross-axis differential (distribution of torque in the ratio: 38 % - on front axis, 62 % - on rear). Now the momentum between axles is redistributed not by braking of slipping wheels but with the help of a clutch. The same clutch helps the car to fit into turns, in time changing the character of steerability from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive and vice versa.

The system xDrive has improved the behavior of the automobile on muddy and snowy roads, but it is impossible to name it as a serious "cross-country driver": mainly because of small clearance (185 mm), short-throw suspension, and automatic transmission (on most copies).

BMW came up with a new name for the classification of its crossovers - SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle), having replaced in generally accepted abbreviation SUV the word "utilitarian" with "active". The first Bavarian Parkettes in 1999, became the BMW X5, and four years later, he was joined by the BMW X3: both are some of the most driving cars in their classes, as mentioned more than once in the tests Auto review. I confirm: after I moved to X3 from a passionate Mazda 6, I get nothing less pleasure from driving.

BMW X5 in our conditions, shows not the best survivability (there are enough problems with complex electrics, and also with steering, and first of all with aluminum suspension), but the X3 has deserved reputation of one of the most reliable BMW.

The X3 with a manual is a rarity in our market. So we have the eight-speed automatic machine ZF 8HP (reinforced for a 3.0 diesel engine). It is a paradox: it works with powerful motors, but it does not bear aggressive style. The main weakness is the aluminum body of the satellites block. Locking rings of pinion fingers grind it very quickly, sawdust is spread all over the system. Problems can start after 40000 miles, then worsen rapidly. You can slow down the process by frequent oil changes and regular radiator flushing.

Four-wheel drive xDrive transmission is spoiled by a transfer case exposed to a fast corrosion from inside - the moisture is sucked in through the breather. And with frequent standing in traffic jams, it suffers from oil starvation. By 35,000 to 500,000 miles, it often needs a rebuild with bearing replacement.

The front and rear side seats have adjustable headrests that can be locked in place. They are tall enough to protect an adult even when lowered. The front seat headrests can be tilted forward to keep passengers safe in the event of a rear-end collision. The center headrest in the rear seat is too low for adult safety and cannot be adjusted.

Electronic safety systems, traction control, anti-lock braking system, and emergency brake assist come standard. A blind-spot monitoring system and the lane-keeping system can be purchased as an option.

X6 is the best used BMW to buy.  BMW X6 is a medium-sized luxury SUV based on the X5, with similar stuffing and a coupe-like roofline. But unlike the X5, which can be ordered with a third row of seats, the X6's truncated roofline means that its maximum capacity is five people. The same design peculiarity means there's less luggage room than in the X5.

In the U.S. market, the BMW X6 is available in three basic packages - two with all-wheel drive and one with only rear axle drive. Similar to the previous model, the xDrive35i is a six-cylinder all-wheel-drive variant with a 300-hp three-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic. BMW offers the rear-wheel-drive version of the X6 for the first time, and it is called sDrive35i.

The top variant, at least at the moment, is the xDrive50i with a V8. In this version, this 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 engine produces 445 hp of power and 650 Nm of torque, which is 45 hp and 40 Nm more than the previous X6. Specialists from BMW say it will reduce the acceleration time to 60 mph by half a second. Those Americans who would like to get a more powerful version M of the new X6 will be disappointed in the 2015 model year. There are also no announcements regarding the U.S. release of diesel or hybrid versions of the new model.

BMW Driving Dynamics Control system for the X6 is part of the standard equipment. These technologies allow the driver to choose between Comfort, Eco Pro, Sport, and Sport Plus modes - he will be able to understand the difference in X6 behavior on the road and decide what suits his character best.

It is pleasant to admire the effective roof of the X6 from the aside, but when driving backward on a parking lot you begin to understand all depths of compromise of the given stylistic decision. The rear window, as well as the side windows in the luggage compartment, are proportionally smaller than in any other SUV, which means that they block a significant part of the visible space when you line up in the flow or trying to get into the parking space in reverse. Of course, some of these problems are solved by the X6's cameras, parking assist systems, and blind-spot obstacle alerts. However, there are plenty of SUVs on the market that are much easier to park, simply because they have large rear windows.

For all the uniqueness of the appearance of this car, make no mistake: it drives almost the same as a normal X5. The 445-horsepower V8 engine not only sounds great but also allows you to dash from the start with such speed as if it were something much lighter and more compact. The BMW X6 becomes an unstoppable monster when you step on the gas pedal and accelerate to a hundred in less than five seconds (according to BMW).

The BMW 2 Series handles corners and accelerates beautifully, which makes driving the car a pure pleasure. The 2 Series looks great inside, with comfortable front seats and plenty of features, including an intuitive infotainment system. The car has some flaws, such as cramped rear seats, but they don't spoil the overall experience.

The best used BMW 2 Series can accommodate four people in coupe and convertible bodies. Sedans have enough space for five. You can't complain about the front seats, they are comfortable and well held in the corners. In addition, they are easy to adjust.

Standard features include the iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display, 7-speaker, Bluetooth, and USB port connectivity. Features that can be added separately include a sunroof, wireless device charging, Wi-Fi hotspot, 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, a Harman Kardon audio system with 12 speakers, satellite radio, and navigation.

The BMW 2 Series may not have some of the features available from competitors, such as Android Auto and the touchscreen, but the iDrive infotainment system is still easy enough to use. The controller knob is comfortable and the menus are well organized, making it easy to find and change settings.

BMW has updated the 2-Series almost every year since the model debuted in 2014. There's a good chance to come across a used BMW 2-Series that fits your needs but costs less than a new one.

BMW added a body option with a convertible and all-wheel drive in 2015, and the M2 with a new engine joined the lineup in 2016. As for the older models' engines, they added horsepower in 2017 (along with new package options). A suite of advanced safety systems, including emergency automatic braking, became standard for 2019. A four-door Gran Coupe body and a new, improved M2 CS coupe model went on sale in 2020.

The BMW 3 Series is a superb car, boasting high-quality finishes, attention to detail, and a long list of high-tech features. Sure, it's not as attractive now, and it doesn't have the same kick in terms of handling as it used to. But the BMW 3 Series is fast, reliable, and stable - even in extreme conditions. In addition, this model is a true pleasure to drive.

Comfort, complete noise isolation, and interior design are impressive. There is a little more space on the rear seats, but it is still cramped there. And some of the control features are still intricate. The BMW 3 Series sedan is available with an incredibly powerful twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a less powerful 2.0-liter version of the four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower. A hybrid version of the 330e sedan is also available. Finally, a temperamental version of the M3, complete with a 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine and 425 horsepower. In addition, you can choose an all-wheel drive. A manual transmission is still available for some models.

The interior trim is top-notch, with plenty of soft-touch surfaces and numerous chrome details. You can choose either wood or aluminum as the dash trim material. Luxury Line models are finished in even more refined materials, including stained wood. The embossed leather seats have attractive decorative stitching. And there are soft, low-pile mats under the feet.

Most drivers will be able to sit comfortably behind the wheel. There is more than enough space for legs and head, besides, the left footrest is extremely well located. But the central tunnel in the floor slightly interferes with the shins. Drivers of taller height may feel a lack of space for knees. The telescopic steering wheel has good feedback, but it's not easy to adjust. The edge of the steering wheel can partially block the view of the instruments. Oddly, the shoulder belt attachment is not adjustable in height.

The car's straightforward styling, large windows, and narrow roof pillars of the BMW 3 Series provide excellent visibility. The power side mirrors are a nice addition that makes parking easier and protects the mirrors from damage.