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2023 BMW 3 SERIES VS. BMW 5 SERIES: WHICH OF THE TWO SEDANS TO CHOOSE?

2023 BMW 3 SERIES VS. BMW 5 SERIES: WHICH OF THE TWO SEDANS TO CHOOSE?

It's an irrefutable fact that although SUVs at BMW are currently in fashion, and even in Quebec, the Bavarian manufacturer is a master at designing luxury sedans. In fact, among premium sedans with the longest careers in the industry, there are two from the automaker: the BMW 3 Series, in production since 1975, and its bigger sibling, the BMW 5 Seriesproduced since 1972. Over the course of their respective generations, the two luxury sedans from Munich have continued to improve in terms of comfort, technology and luxury, but also in terms of performance. Indeed, each of them gets its own sporty variant signed by the manufacturer's Motorsport department. Whether it’s the 3 Series or 5 Series, they share many similarities, making it difficult to choose between the two cars at the time of purchase. So: 3 Series or 5 Series for your next BMW sedan? BMW West-Island, your BMW dealer of choice from Montreal to Laval helps you helps you make the choice that best suits your lifestyle below.
 
Learn more about the new BMW 5 series' specs and the 100% electric, BMW i5' specs
 

Undeniable BMW DNA, but individual personalities.

The first round of this 3 Series vs. 5 Series match: the exterior styling, which will be your first exposure to each vehicle. One thing is clear: both sedans are authentic bimmers in their respective lines. With their typical BMW headlight design, iconic double kidney grille, extended plunging bonnet, and rearward passenger compartment ending in a short trunk when viewed from the side, the 3 Series or 5 Seriescan't deny their BMW genes, and that's just as well! However, each of them has its own character: the lighting signature of the headlights is more complex for the 3 Series, while more streamlined and L-shaped on its bigger sibling. The taillights are also more tapered on the former, while those of the 5 Series are more massive but still very dynamic. On the side, the 3 Series is also slenderer, while the 5 Series is naturally more imposing in its body volumes. So, your choice will have to be guided by your own preferences! If you want a sedan with slimmer and sportier lines, the 2023 BMW 3 Series will be your best option. If, on the other hand, you would like a more charismatic BMW sedan that will make a statement on the roads between the West Island and the North Shore of Montreal, then the 2023 BMW 5 Series is your best bet.
vue latérale avant d'une BMW Série 3 2023 on a country roadBMW Serie 3
vue latérale avant d'une BMW Série 5 2023 sur un tarmacBMW Serie 5

Same range structure, but more power for the 5 Series.

You know it as well as we do, a premium sedan is judged more on its mechanical aspects than on the design, especially if it's German. In our BMW 3 Series vs. BMW 5 Seriescomparison, our two protagonists are no exception, even in Montreal! Here is a summary of the 2023 BMW 3 Series and 2023 5 Series technical specifications, in table form for greater clarity!

3 Series vs. 5 Series Technical Data Comparison

2023 BMW 3 Series 2023 BMW 5 Series
Version Specifications Version Specifications
330e Plug-in hybrid powertrain

(2.0L 4-cylinder + electric motor with 12.0-kWh battery), 288 hp, 310 lb-ft

RWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 54,900
530i xDrive Turbo 2.0L 4-cylinder, 248 hp, 258 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 66,000
330i xDrive Turbo 2.0L 4-cylinder, 255 hp, 295 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 55,000
530e xDrive Plug-in hybrid

(2.0L 4-cylinder + electric motor with 12.0-kWh battery), 288 hp, 310 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 69,000
330e xDrive Plug-in hybrid powertrain

(2.0L 4-cylinder + electric motor with 12.0-kWh battery), 288 hp, 310 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 58,900
540i xDrive 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder, 335 hp, 332 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 76,000
M340i xDrive 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder, 382 hp, 369 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 68,000
M550i xDrive Turbo 4.4L V8, 523 hp, 553 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 89,900
M3 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder, 473 hp, 406 lb-ft

RWD, 6-speed manual

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 89,500
   
M3 Competition 3.0L turbo inline 6-cylinder, 503 hp, 479 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 96,400
M5 Competition Turbo 4.4L V8, 617 hp, 553 lb-ft

AWD, 8-speed automatic

Price (MSRP): starting at $ 128,800
You can see this clearly in the table above: you will have more choice in the 2023 3 Series range. For example, you will be able to choose between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive for the 2021 BMW 3 Series Hybrid (the 330e). Similarly, you can choose between two versions of the M3 (the "regular" one with 473 horsepower, and the Competition with 503 horsepower), both of which offer a unique driving experience as both variants only have a rear-wheel drive system! However, what the 2023 5 Series range 'loses' in choice, it gains hands down in terms of capabilities. Indeed, all its variants are all-wheel drive, and only one transmission is available (an 8-speed automatic). Power outputs are also much higher for the 5 Series engines. For example, the M550i offers 523 horsepower, which is far superior to its equivalent in the 3 Series (M340i: 382 horsepower). The same goes for the Motorsport version: the M5 Competition delivers 617 horsepower! However, as the 3 Series is shorter than the 5 Series, it will handle better than the latter. Therefore, it all depends on what you want! If you want the ultimate in BMW Canadaperformance, choose the 5 Series with its powerful and noble engines and all-wheel drive. If you want a more spirited driving experience, choose the more compact 3 Series and its drive system, which can be a rear-wheel drive depending on the variant you choose!

Flawless, highly luxurious and ultra-technological interiors.

Finally, the best for last: the interiors! On this last point, the two sedans are equal in terms of ambient design; you and your passengers will benefit from a relaxing atmosphere, conducive to travel! The same goes for the materials and finish: very sound! So, what makes them different? The available room inside, especially behind the second row of seats. Indeed, while the trunk volume is about 374 litres for the 3 Series, it reaches some 530 litres in the 5 Series. This proves that the latter is clearly intended for longer distances than its smaller sibling! On the other hand, in terms of equipment, the two BMW sedans will simply offer you the best. Leather upholstery, electric glass roof, head-up display, quad-zone automatic climate control, or Bowers & Wilkins sound system: depending on the model and version, you will have everything you could wish for to travel comfortably, whatever your final destination!
vue de l'habitacle d'une BMW Serie 3 2023Habitacle - BMW Serie 3
vue de l'habitacle d'une BMW Serie 5 2023Habitacle - BMW Serie 5

Conclusion: 3 Series for the feel and handling, and 5 Series for long distance and performance.

So here, everything about the BMW 3 Series vs BMW 5 Seriescomparison has been said! And as you can see from the title here, there is no better choice among both vehicles. It all depends on what you want! If you're looking for practicality, and to be comfortable in the city while having maneuverability on the road, opt for the 3 Series. For the ultimate in performance and efficiency, with more cargo space for on-road use, go for the 5 Series.

Still undecided? Come directly to BMW West-Island, your BMW dealer of choice in the Montreal sector of the same name!

We'll answer all your questions, and help you choose the BMW sedan that's right for you! You will also be able to learn about our promotions, as well as our current BMW leasing and financingprograms. See you soon!

Overview of this 3 Series vs. 5 Series comparison

 
2021 BMW 3 Series 2021 BMW 5 Series
Typical BMW design in both cases, but…
...a more slender and tapered features ...a more imposing design that makes a statement on the road
High performance engines for all models, but…
...less power, but a choice of drive systems and gearboxes (auto or manual), and a smaller size for better handling. ...mechanical nobility, superior efficiency and performance, but above all great driving comfort, because of its larger size.
Ergonomic, luxurious, highly technological and tremendously comfortable interior in both cases. However...
...a smaller interior space, especially in the trunk. ...more room for luggage to travel longer distances.
Verdict
For those who value handling and driving experience above all else, with the performances to match. Intended for those:
  • For whom interior space is important, and who primarily drive long distances.
  • Seeking greater efficiency and performance.
vue latérale arrière d'une BMW Série 5 2023 sur la route
 
 

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