BMW’s unique blend of driving engagement and premium luxury make its cars enjoyable for a variety of drivers. While the styling of current BMW models has drawn the ire of some buyers, there are plenty of older models that are great choices. The best used BMWs in 2023 are all new enough to have modern features, but without the polarizing looks. 

2019 BMW 2 Series

We love the 2 Series coupes here at MotorBiscuit, and that love doesn’t stop with the high-performing M2. Across the board, the 2019 BMW 2 Series is one of the best used BMWs around. Blending a high level of comfort with nimble handling and plenty of punch, the previous generation of BMW’s compact coupe is easy to love. 

According to U.S. News, the 2019 2 Series coupe and convertible earned a rating of 8.5 out of 10. It’s not hard for us to see why, and it’s not hard to envision this coupe becoming a future classic. Just keep in mind that the coupe and Gran Coupe are not the same vehicle, despite falling under the same nameplate.

2018 BMW 5 Series

The inimitable BMW 5 Series ties its smaller sibling as one of the best used BMWs available today. While the smaller 2 Series is good for sporty handling with a dash of comfort, the 2018 5 Series flips the ratio.

This midsize luxury sedan puts an emphasis on comfort with features like heated and ventilated seats, multi-zone climate control, and rich Vernasca leather. However, the turbocharged performance, sport automatic transmission, and rear-drive platform give it a tinge of athleticism despite its size. It also earns high safety ratings, and comes packed with connected tech.

2018 BMW 3 Series

There is clearly a theme here, and that is that BMW’s best used cars are all from its last generation platforms. The 3 Series is the Goldilocks combination of the previous two models. It has more space inside than the 2 Series, but is lighter and more engaged than the 5 Series. 

Some might call that compromise, but we prefer to think of it as providing an excellent balance. It’s just 0.2 points away from its two stablemates at an 8.3 out of 10, as it is a bit small for backseat riders. However, it is also lighter and more efficient than its 5 Series sibling, making it an ideal middle ground for daily practicality.

2018 BMW i3

This EV is easily one of the best used BMWs if efficiency is the overall goal. It’s a tiny hatchback, offering 114 miles of all-electric range. That may not be much when compared to modern EVs, but it is excellent both for the price. You can also find i3 models with a 0.6-liter two-cylinder range-extending engine that bumps range by 65 miles.

Despite its compact footprint, the i3 offers a generous passenger space, and 2018 models come with some modern tech features to keep up with today’s modern options.

2018 BMW 7 Series

Finally, the 2018 BMW 7 Series comes through with an 8.1 out of 10 for overall quality. Fortunately for anyone shopping used, flagship cars like the 7 Series crater in value after their first owner. That means great prices on an executive-level luxury sedan that still offers a high level of quality in 2023.

This 7 Series comes standard with 14-way power-adjustable seats, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. And models can be found with heated and ventilated seats, built-in massage, and more. That’s a ton of luxury for a surprisingly affordable price in today’s used car market.

The best used BMW models all come from the same generation

While modern BMWs have more performance and tech, funky looks and wonky tech keep them from being universally loved. Meanwhile, these used models from 2018 and 2019 rank as some of the best available today. Many can be had at surprisingly affordable prices, and all deliver well-rounded driving experiences.