Used BMW cars buying guide
Used BMW cars are among the most desirable around. BMW is famous for making cars that are stylish and great to drive and there are lots of used BMWs to choose from, whether you want a compact, cost-effective hatchback, a family-friendly SUV, a classy convertible or a sporty two-seater.
BMW is a German brand, based in Munich, that has been making cars since 1927. Today it’s one of the biggest car companies in the world, selling more than two million new cars in 2023. Although it’s known for its sporty models, BMW produces many different types of car and offers a range of hybrid and pure-electric models.
Which used BMW cars are for sale?
The range of used BMW cars for sale covers most categories of car. The smallest is the i3 electric car, then there’s the 1 Series hatchback and the 2 Series coupe and convertible models. The 2 Series Active Tourer and Gran Tourer are compact five-seat and seven-seat MPVs.
The BMW 3 Series is a mid-size saloon or estate model, while the 4 Series is a two-door or five-door coupe, or a two-door convertible. The 5 Series is a large saloon or estate model, while the 6 Series and 8 Series are large coupe or convertible models.
BMW produces a lot of SUVs – they are the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7 and XM.
Are there any hybrid or electric BMW models?
Most BMW models are available with plug-in hybrid power, combining a petrol engine with electric motor. The notable exceptions are the 1 Series and various coupe and convertible models.
You’ll find a number of used BMW pure-electric models for sale – these are the i3, iX1, iX2, iX3, iX and XM.
What are the most popular BMW models?
BMW 1 Series
The BMW 1 Series is a hatchback model that’s compact and cost-effective, yet gives you the full BMW experience. The latest, five-door-only model was introduced in 2019, replacing a version sold new from 2011 to 2019 that was available as either a three- or a five-door model.
BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series is one of BMW’s most popular and longest-running models. It’s available as either a four-door saloon or five-door estate called 3 Series Touring. A huge range of engines and trims are available, many with an automatic gearbox included as standard.
BMW 5 Series
The BMW 5 Series is a large saloon and estate model (called 5 Series Touring) that gives you a huge amount of interior space and features for your money. It’s comfortable and enjoyable to drive and most versions have an automatic gearbox included as standard.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is a five-seat MPV that gives you a lot of interior space in a car that’s compact and easy to park. All versions are relaxing to drive and give good fuel economy. If you need more space, check out the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer, a longer, seven-seat version of the Active Tourer.
BMW i3
The BMW i3 is a compact, pure-electric hatchback that was sold new in the UK between 2013 and 2022. It's small enough to fit into all but the tiniest parking spaces, yet is well-equipped and good to drive. Official maximum battery range is up to 191 miles for the most recent versions.
Which BMW models are SUVs?
The BMW SUV models are the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, iX and XM. The models with an odd number in their name (and the iX and XM) have a conventional SUV look with a tall, squared-off body – the larger the number, the larger the car, although the XM is roughly the same size as the X7.
The BMW SUV models with an even number in their name – the X2, X4 and X6 – are essentially coupe versions of X1, X3 and X5, with the same raised height but with a lower roofline and sleeker styling behind the front doors.
There are four pure-electric BMW SUV models – the iX1, iX2, iX3 and iX.
An easier way to buy or sell a BMW car
You’ll find lots of used cars for sale at Cazoo, all available to buy through our trusted dealers.
Cazoo makes selling a car just as easy – simply visit our value my car page and enter a few details for an instant online valuation. If you accept the offer, our partners will get in touch to arrange payment and collection of your car at a time that suits you.