2026 CarExpert Choice winner: Best Luxury Mid-Size Car

The BMW 3 Series has been named Australia’s best mid-size luxury car in the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards, the second year in a row it has won the award.

It beat out two finalists: the Audi A5 and Lexus ES.

It's one of five BMWs to win a category in the second annual CarExpert Choice Awards, and its second consecutive win is further proof the 3 Series remains the benchmark in this segment even in its twilight years.

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The 3 Series is available as either a sedan or wagon, and with turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines. Sadly, you can't get a plug-in hybrid here anymore, though BMW will soon introduce the all-new electric i3.

Regardless of which 3 Series you choose, you get a vehicle with excellent dynamics, slick technology, and an upscale interior – all attributes important to buyers of mid-size luxury cars.

The flagship M340i with its turbocharged inline six-cylinder petrol engine is particularly delightful, but if it isn't hot enough for you, BMW also has a range of M3s to choose from. Even the base 330i, however, offers sparkling performance.

The 3 Series has been the car to beat in this segment for decades now. Others have come close, but for now the BMW stands tall.

2026 CarExpert – Choice Best Luxury Mid-Size Car

• Winner – BMW 3 Series
• Finalist – Audi A5
• Finalist – Lexus ES

To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here.

MORE: Explore the BMW 3 Series showroom