Brand new models have similar fuel efficiency, with Parkers suggesting the 2025 petrol model can achieve up to 44.1mpg. According to data from RAC Fuel Watch, the UK’s national average petrol price stands at 135.55p per litre.
A quick breakdown of the two figures indicates that owners are burning through around 14p per mile of petrol for every mile they travel. This figure is the same for both older and newer 3 Series models, highlighting that buying the latest model won’t necessarily boost efficiency.
However, those opting for an alternative fuel type could make savings with plug-in and diesel models available. Many owners of the BMW 330e plug-in hybrid have reported enjoying around 50 mpg or higher on the roads.
When topped up with petrol, this would bring average ratios down to 12p per mile, ensuring road users get more for their money. Parkers has previously suggested that brand new diesel 3 Series models can achieve up to 62.8 miles per gallon.
With average diesel fees across the country sitting at 143.38p per litre, owners would be paying as little as 10p per mile to get behind the wheel. WhatCar? has previously explained that BMW 3 Series models would have “excellent fuel economy”.
They explained: “The BMW 330e is officially capable of excellent fuel economy, but you'll need to charge it up regularly to achieve that. A full charge should take about two and a quarter hours using an 11kW home EV charger.
“The 320i petrol is reasonably economical for a car of its type. Officially, it can average 43.5mpg, which is slightly less than the 45.6mpg the mild hybrid Mercedes C200 can manage.”
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