BMW 3 Series vs Holden Commodore
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW 3 Series and Holden Commodore hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW 3 Series packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Holden Commodore.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The BMW 3 Series stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Holden Commodore. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW 3 Series uses a Petrol producing 190kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.8 seconds.
The Holden Commodore lines up making 210kW and 350Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic driving the rear wheels.
The Holden Commodore has the clear power advantage at 210kW vs 190kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW 3 Series measures 4,713mm long on a 2,851mm wheelbase, 251mm shorter than the Holden Commodore at 4,964mm (2,915mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Holden Commodore generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 480L in the BMW 3 Series and 495L in the Holden Commodore, giving the Holden Commodore a 15L advantage.
For towing, the Holden Commodore leads with a 2,100kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.4m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,853/year for the BMW 3 Series and $2,565/year for the Holden Commodore. That is a $712 annual difference in favour of the BMW 3 Series.
Estimated annual total: $1,853 (BMW 3 Series) vs $2,565 (Holden Commodore). The BMW 3 Series saves you roughly $712 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW 3 Series) vs 3 years / 100,000km (Holden Commodore). The BMW 3 Series has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW 3 Series if: You want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Holden Commodore if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Holden's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Holden Commodore takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The BMW 3 Series will save you roughly $712 a year in fuel. The BMW 3 Series adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW 3 Series and Holden Commodore?
The BMW 3 Series is the cheapest at $94,700 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The BMW 3 Series uses the least fuel at 6.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW 3 Series and Holden Commodore all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Holden Commodore has the largest boot at 495L.
Which can tow the most?
The Holden Commodore has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,100kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The BMW 3 Series has the longest warranty at 5 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Holden Commodore makes the most power at 210kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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