You really can’t go wrong with any modern compact sports sedan, though the 3-Series’ rivals have their work cut out for themselves to keep up.
The Mercedes C-Class matches the 3-Series at every level, though it’s generally more expensive and there’s no manual transmission for the sporty C63.
The Audi A4 is beginning to gray around its temples, but it still tells a great tech story and boasts a terrific ride.
Volvo’s S60 never tries to be as sporty as the 3-Series, and that’s just fine with us.
We like its sublime style.
The Genesis G70 is a credible sports sedan with a classy interior and a competitive pricetag, though finding a dealer may still be a challenge.
And don’t forget the Tesla Model 3, the definitive electric sedan that has proven itself to be a usable daily driver.
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 2021 BMW 3-Series#1 in Luxury Small Sedans Get Your Price |  2021 Mercedes-Benz C Class#3 in Coupes Get Your Price |  2021 Volvo S60#3 in Luxury Mid-Size Cars Get Your Price |  2021 Genesis G70#4 in Luxury Small Sedans Get Your Price |  2020 Tesla Model 3#4 in Luxury Mid-Size Cars Get Your Price |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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The flexible 2021 BMW 3-Series lineup offers something for everyone, so long as they’re not smitten with SUVs. |
Svelte, sporty, and somewhat understated, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class should be at the top of your compact luxury sedan shopping list. |
The 2021 Volvo S60 puts power in balance with grace. |
The 2021 Genesis G70 has the footwork of a contender; it’s a jab or two from landing a knockout punch on its German rivals. |
It’s not perfect, but the 2020 Tesla Model 3 has a devoted following and growing list of fans. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $41,250 | $41,600 | $38,950 | $36,000 | $35,000 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 16 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | |
| Engine | ||||
| Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Electric |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Compact Cars | Compact Cars | Compact Cars | Compact Cars | Mid-Size Cars |
| Style Name | ||||
| 330i Sedan | C 300 Sedan | T5 FWD Momentum | 2.0T RWD | Standard Range RWD |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2021 BMW 3-Series vs. 2021 Mercedes-Benz C Class | 2021 BMW 3-Series vs. 2021 Volvo S60 | 2021 BMW 3-Series vs. 2021 Genesis G70 | 2021 BMW 3-Series vs. 2020 Tesla Model 3 | |
