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The 2012 BMW 3 Series is a medium Car. When it was new, prices in New Zealand typically ranged from $62,700 for the ES variant and topping out at $193,200 for the M3 variant.
There are 11 variants of the 3 Series available in New Zealand and this generation went on sale in early-2009.
The 2012 3 Series was offered with a 3 year, unlimited km warranty.
Engine options for the BMW 3 Series include 2.0L in-line 4-cylinder (115kW/200Nm), 2.0L in-line 4-cylinder turbo (130kW/350Nm), 2.0L in-line 4-cylinder turbo (135kW/270Nm), 2.0L in-line 4-cylinder turbo (135kW/380Nm), 2.0L in-line 4-cylinder turbo (180kW/350Nm), 2.5L in-line 6-cylinder (160kW/250Nm), 3.0L in-line 6-cylinder turbo (145kW/400Nm), 3.0L in-line 6-cylinder turbo (180kW/520Nm), 3.0L in-line 6-cylinder turbo (225kW/400Nm), 3.0L in-line 6-cylinder turbo (210kW/580Nm) and 4.0L v8 (309kW/400Nm). Available with 6-speed manual manual, 6-speed automatic with manual mode, 8-speed automatic with manual mode, 7-speed manual dual clutch sequential trans (dct) or 7-speed automatic with manual mode transmissions. All variants feature rear-wheel drive.

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Engine specs, power, and efficiency
Drive Feel: Steering, Suspension, Ride Quality
Strength, stability, and off-road performance
Design, size, and presence on the road
Comfort, tech, and convenience inside
Infotainment, connectivity, and smart features
Protection, prevention, and alerts
Coverage, maintenance, and peace of mind
The BMW 3 Series comes in a variety of variants with the cheapest being ES and the most expensive being M3.
Quickly see how the BMW 3 Series stacks up against its competition.
Select any benchmark to see more details.
2023
$89,900
2025
$139,400
2024
$193,200
2023
$268,900
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 4,520 mm |
| Overall Width | 1,817 mm |
| Overall Height | 1,421 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,760 mm |
| Load Capacity | 520 mm |
Dimensions in this table show the minimum and maximum values of all variants for this vehicle.
Our BMW 3 Series Exterior and Dimensions Page has every measurement you need to know exactly how this vehicle will fit your driving, garage, or work needs.
2012 BMW 3 Series
The cheapest BMW 3 Series is the ES variant that starts from $62,700.
See all BMW 3 Series PricingThe most expensive BMW 3 Series is the M3 variant that starts from $193,200.
See all BMW 3 Series PricingThe best towing capacity of a BMW 3 Series is 1800 kg offered by the following variants: Modern Line, Luxury Line, SE, Edition Sport and Sport Line.
See all BMW 3 Series towing capacityThe largest BMW 3 Series is the base variant which measures 1811mm wide, 4624mm in length and sits 1441mm tall.
The most powerful BMW 3 Series is the M3 variant which has 309kW of power and 400nm of torque.
The BMW 3 Series is manufactured in different countries, depending on the variant, then shipped to New Zealand. The BMW 3 Series may be manufactured in Germany or South Africa.
The heaviest BMW 3 Series is the M3 variant which has a gross vehicle weight of 2280 kg.
The BMW 3 Series may use different fuel/energy types based on the variant which includes Premium Unleaded or Diesel.
† Displayed prices exclude on-road costs such as delivery charges, registration fees, number plates, insurance and applicable road taxes. These prices are subject to change without notice and may not reflect current market pricing or dealer offers.