[jackimole17]

Hi. I'm new to bimmerpost and thinking about purchasing my first ever BMW. Mostly interested in either a 3 or a 4GC. It seems like getting a BMW that's about 3 years old CPO, off-lease is the best value. There are some great bargains out there. A few 2017 330i xdrives I'm looking at are in the $21k - $23k range which is probably well under 50% of their cost when new.

I'm married with 2 young boys, both under 3 yo. We have a 2017 Highlander that serves us well as the family hauler but I want something sporty and fun to drive as our second car.

I'd like your thoughts on what route I should go. The f30 3 series has that classic bmw look that I love and there are some great deals on them at the moment. The f36 4 series GC is sleek as hell but will cost a bit more and there seems to be a lot less of them on the market. Is one better than the other for my situation where I need to haul around two kids from time to time (carseats and all)?

Or... should I hold out another 1-2 years and get a CPO G20. Shelling out $50k+ for a new one really isnt in the cards for me. I'm looking to spend maybe $25k max. But if I wait another year or two I may be willing to spend a bit more.

Thanks!

[Wires]

I'm thinking if you are willing to wait 2 years for the G20 to drop in used price, then you really don't want a BMW, which sort of answers your question.

You can perpetually wait for the new best thing under that paradigm.

[Gen13 F36]

If this is your first BMW, just go F36 4 GC now.

As in the G20... I want them to sort out stuff first...electronic if there is any problems

Anyway after awhile you can jump into a used LCI G20.

[BuefordTjustice]

If I were you, I wouldn't even think about touching the 4 cylinder. You have a truck, get the straight 6 bmw is known for. Much better power and sound.

[davidr3]

Jump into an F30 if you're looking to mod your cars + it's a good looking 4 door.
F36 is definitely sleek no doubt about it, but as you said there's less on the market + more expensive + less people out there with them over all. G20 wouldn't be worth waiting for at 1-2 years to be honest unless you aren't in a rush to hop into a car.

[jackimole17]

Originally Posted by BuefordTjustice

If I were you, I wouldn't even think about touching the 4 cylinder. You have a truck, get the straight 6 bmw is known for. Much better power and sound.

Thanks for the replies. I should clarify that we intend to keep the Highlander as the family car for years to come. The car I'm looking to upgrade is a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The thing sucks in every way. Bought it in 2013 when I needed a car and money was tight. I'm in a much better position now. Definately the inline 6 is tempting but coming from a weak and rather crappy car I think the turbo 4 n20 engine along with all the other BMW driving dynamics and luxury interior elements would be a big jump for me. I plan to test out both engines regardless.

I think it's either going to be an f30 or f36 for me. See some car reviews where they complain about the f30 and its its steering feedback but i feel like they are just looking for something to complain about in an otherwise excellent car. Plus I just watched an awesome review from Thomas from Throttle House on youtube and he totally geeked out out about f30!

[Gen13 F36]

Originally Posted by jackimole17

Thanks for the replies. I should clarify that we intend to keep the Highlander as the family car for years to come. The car I'm looking to upgrade is a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The thing sucks in every way. Bought it in 2013 when I needed a car and money was tight. I'm in a much better position now. Definately the inline 6 is tempting but coming from a weak and rather crappy car I think the turbo 4 n20 engine along with all the other BMW driving dynamics and luxury interior elements would be a big jump for me. I plan to test out both engines regardless.

I think it's either going to be an f30 or f36 for me. See some car reviews where they complain about the f30 and its its steering feedback but i feel like they are just looking for something to complain about in an otherwise excellent car. Plus I just watched an awesome review from Thomas from Throttle House on youtube and he totally geeked out out about f30!

For the 4 cyclinder... B46/48 is newer on 2016 3 series and 2017 4 series GC. For N20 try going for 2015 build date. Coming from a Sonata, it would be a big jump.

I choose the 4GC. But you have 2 kids about car seat for under 3yrs old. I installed a back facing car seat on my GC before for I need to pick up my niece. But 2 seat.

[PK2348]

Originally Posted by jackimole17

luxury interior elements

U serious?

[Gen13 F36]

Originally Posted by PK2348

U serious?

He's comparing it to his Hyundai Sonata.

[jackimole17]

Originally Posted by Gen13 F36

For the 4 cyclinder... B46/48 is newer on 2016 3 series and 2017 4 series GC. For N20 try going for 2015 build date. Coming from a Sonata, it would be a big jump.

I choose the 4GC. But you have 2 kids about car seat for under 3yrs old. I installed a back facing car seat on my GC before for I need to pick up my niece. But 2 seat.

Right.... I got my engines mixed up. I'd be looking for the b46. Mostly looking at 2017 330i and 430i. From what I've read on this site seems like the newer b46 is likely to be more reliable.

As for the luxury comment.. yeah I realize I'm talking about a 3 year old car in the low to mid $20k range so not expecting anything crazy but coming from an older sonata, anything with a good infotainment system and power seats is pretty luxurious to me!

[syd34]

As a first time BMW owner, I too went through a similar thought process. I contemplated whether to get the G20 or an F36 (since the F30 was out of production last year).

I really had my heart set on the B58 engine. Since the G20 was just launched at the time when I was purchasing, the lease payments for a 330i would have been more than what I could get the 440i GC for. And honestly, I am thrilled with the 440i GC.

I too have two young kids and absolutely love the trunk space. Car seats are easy to install and you will truly appreciate the added practicality of the larger opening cargo area. I understand the GC may be tougher to find. However, even with the F30, I am certain you will be very happy.

Sure, you can wait for the G20 if that is what you prefer but as a first time BMW owner, the F30/F36 is plenty of car for anyone new to the brand.

Good luck on whichever direction you decide!

[tturedraider]

Originally Posted by syd34

As a first time BMW owner, I too went through a similar thought process. I contemplated whether to get the G20 or an F36 (since the F30 was out of production last year).

I really had my heart set on the B58 engine. Since the G20 was just launched at the time when I was purchasing, the lease payments for a 330i would have been more than what I could get the 440i GC for. And honestly, I am thrilled with the 440i GC.

I too have two young kids and absolutely love the trunk space. Car seats are easy to install and you will truly appreciate the added practicality of the larger opening cargo area. I understand the GC may be tougher to find. However, even with the F30, I am certain you will be very happy.

Sure, you can wait for the G20 if that is what you prefer but as a first time BMW owner, the F30/F36 is plenty of car for anyone new to the brand.

Good luck on whichever direction you decide!

This post is right on. Better to go for the F36, but the F30 is great, too. The F36 hatch adds a lot of utility. As a first time BMW owner you’ll certainly be happy with either one. Good luck with your search.

[whatevs]

Dont think you can go wrong with either of those. I personally got the F30, and am happy with it!

[Imperial328i]

Ditch kids get ///M car

[Gen13 F36]

Originally Posted by Imperial328i

Ditch kids get ///M car

[atblis]

The G20 is a substantially different car. I had one as a loaner last week, and it took me a while to warm up to it, but I eventually did. If you're going Xdrive, the G20 might be the better option. The Xdrive F3Xs I've driven I thought were terrible. The G20 Xdrive I ended up liking. I am not working from a large sample size so take it FWIW...

The B46 is plenty of motor, and it does an admirable job of hustling the car along, enough so to have fun in the twisties. However, it is not a drag race monster, and you may find yourself embarrassed at a stoplight by a V6 Accord or Camry. Just something to consider if that matters to you.

[Torquey]

If you are able to like the design/shape... might I suggest an F34

Official 3-series Gran Turismo launch thread

It's basically a 3-series hatchback that is as long as a 5-series and rear leg room of a 7-series. Definitely heavier, taller and not as nimble as the F30/32.. but still fun with a ton of utility for a growing family. We have one and the kids love the room in the back and i love that no one is constantly kicking the back of my seat. Ours is a 2016 M-sport model, last year of the N55 for the GT. Got a really good CPO deal on it, otherwise I was looking for a 2017+ MY with the B58 engine. Since then I've added BMW's M Performance Power Kit and M-Performance Exaust... so the performance potential is there just like any other F3x. The F36 GC was on my list too... but the rear leg room difference was massive. Also this is the only non-SUV BMW that came with a panoramic sunroof I believe. There are also a few unique features like the speed activated active spoiler etc.

Of course you will come across too many polarizing opinions regarding the GT, most people leaning towards the "it's butt ugly" side . However for the people that own them, it's a great all around car.

[PhizzurpF]

I'd personally wait 1-1.5 years and then get a G20, unless you're wanting to lease. I love my f30, but I think it'll become dated rather quickly (2-3 yrs). Granted I don't have a 6 cylinder, so I maybe I'm being bias.

As someone else mentioned, and as a first time bmw owner, I strongly you suggest you consider a 6 cylinder. The n20/b48 are satisfying at first, but you'll get the itch, as we all do

[kpgray]

Welcome to the forum. The F30 is common and lower priced. The F36 is rarer and a specialty higher priced vehicle. Advantage of the F36:

• Sportier aerodynamic style
• The hatchback is auto open and huge, easier to load trunk
• The 4-Series has a wider track and sits lower with a lower center of gravity

As for the steering you mentioned, the original compliant was the BMW initial attempt at Electronic steering, it was such a departure from the famed BMW Ultimate Driving hydraulic to something that seemed detached. What I can tell you is the electronic steering is easier in parking lots, the later model BMW updated suspension and electronics for a better feel (still not the hydraulic, but still very good). If this is important to you, get the RWD as the xDrive is very detached. Do not wait for the G20, there is always a better, newer model, that is just a couple years away... get it and enjoy!

The focus here should be the options as this will make or break the BMW experience. Good optioned 330i is better than a base 430i. Recommend the LCI (Life Cycle Change) newer models (330/340 or 430/440) as BMW improved the already great vehicles with many updates, suspension, steering, and especially engines. I would suggest the must haves are:

• Sport or M-Sport for the Seats alone (includes 18" wheels)
• Premium package
• Technology Package (or at minimum Navigation)
• Lighting Package (standard on 340/440)
• Heated Seats and Steering wheel

Another model (mentioned earlier) is the 3GT, it is on a 5-series frame with a huge rear seat and the hatchback. Some think it looks long but it has a pretty cool rear spoiler that comes up when driving. Also, the F31 Wagon is a real looker and with the kids, it is a great hauler!

[Sayzar]

If it was me I would go with the F36 is rarer and not many have them. You can always get a G20 later after they drop in price, the f30 is nice but not as sleek as the f36 and if you add on some mods its a great looking car. Price will be a bit more and you have to keep in mind that you will lose head space as the f36 is designed as a coupe. I ve had mine 4 years and could not be happier. if you would like to see how one look moditify just shoot me a DM and ill be more than happy to dm you a some photos of mine.

you can't go wrong with either one both are great cars.

[whatevs]

Originally Posted by PhizzurpF

I'd personally wait 1-1.5 years and then get a G20, unless you're wanting to lease. I love my f30, but I think it'll become dated rather quickly (2-3 yrs). Granted I don't have a 6 cylinder, so I maybe I'm being bias.

As someone else mentioned, and as a first time bmw owner, I strongly you suggest you consider a 6 cylinder. The n20/b48 are satisfying at first, but you'll get the itch, as we all do

What he said - Love my 328 but wish I got the 340!

[jmg]

Originally Posted by Imperial328i

Ditch kids get ///M car

Keep the kids, get an M3.