BMW - 3 Series (2006)

Discovering the 2006 BMW 3 Series

The 2006 BMW 3 Series has long been celebrated for its blend of German precision and subtle luxury. When you hear BMW 3 Series price being discussed, it’s common to wonder what that figure actually means for a specific model year and condition. This overview delves into the current market, what you can expect when searching for a used BMW 3 Series price, and the factors that influence how much a 2006 example is worth today.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: 2.5‑L inline‑4 with turbocharging (approximately 210 hp)
• Transmission: 6‑speed manual or 5‑speed automatic (depending on trim)
• Fuel Type: Premium gasoline
• Performance: 0–60 mph in roughly 6.5 seconds (manual)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: ~4.70 m (184 in)
  • Breadth: ~1.78 m (70 in)
  • Height: ~1.46 m (57 in)
  • Wheelbase: 2.80 m (110.23 in)
• Interior: Leather upholstery, dual‑zone climate control, iDrive infotainment (depending on package)
• Safety: Anti‑roll bar, stability control, additional airbags in high‑end trims
• Fuel Economy: EPA estimates 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (manual)
• Trim Levels: FM, Ti, and the premium xDrive variants (all‑wheel‑drive)

BMW 3 Series Depreciation

Understanding BMW 3 Series depreciation is essential before making a purchase. On average, a new BMW 3 Series drops about 15‑20% of its value in the first year, then 10‑12% annually for the next three years. By the time a 2006 model reaches 10‑12 years of service, the cumulative reduction typically lands in the 50‑60% range from its original MSRP. Of course, condition, mileage, ownership history, and regional demand are major modifiers. A 2006 example with 8,000 # miles and meticulous maintenance will retain a stronger market position than one with > 120,000 # miles on the odometer.

What Is a 2006 BMW 3 Series Worth?

When asking “what is a 2006 BMW 3 Series worth?” you’ll typically find the price range split into three segments: low‑end, mid‑range, and high‑end. Below are rough benchmarks, but remember numbers will vary by market/condition:

• Low‑end (8–15 years, moderate miles): £5,000 – £8,000
• Mid‑range (6–8 years, under 80,000 # miles): £8,000 – £12,000
• High‑end (4–5 years, under 50,000 # miles, premium packages): £12,000 – £20,000

These are indicative; your local market may offer a slightly different spread. The price of a used BMW 3 Series can never be pinned to a single number because it reflects a complex mix of year‑to‑year depreciation, the specific configuration, alignment with aftermarket trends (such as the popularity of head‑up displays or upgraded R&D‑derived suspensions), and the overall supply of well‑maintained vehicles.

Comparison Context

Comparing a 2006 BMW 3 Series to its direct competitors provides a realistic perspective on market desire and pricing dynamics. Consider the Audi A4 and Mercedes‑C Class