A wide variety of options; athletic driving feel; fuel efficiency; high-tech options; long list of appearance packages and trims; compact size and maneuverability; practicality and comfort. The BMW 3-Series is a family of sporty sedans, wagons, coupes, and convertibles--all sized at what would be considered a compact car in the U.S. 2013 BMW 3-Series Sedans and Sports Wagon models are built on a new-generation (F30) platform that made its debut with the 2012-model sedan--and is slightly longer, lower, and wider, while Coupe and Convertible 3-Series models remain built on the previous platform. Across its entire lineup, the 3-Series models stand out for being athletic, responsive and fun to drive--as well as more fuel-efficient than most other alternatives. Also, last year's redesign brought more back-seat space and cargo space to sedans, as well as a more sophisticated, isolated ride. M3 models, meanwhile, continue to be one of the most practical high-performance cars on the market.