BMW insurance groups explained: 1 Series, 3 Series, X models and more

BMWs are known for performance, comfort and sleek design. But they’re not always known for cheap insurance.

That said, some BMW models sit in lower insurance groups than you might think, especially if you go for smaller engines or entry-level trims. If you're a cost-conscious driver or new to the UK, this guide will help you find the right balance between premium feel and affordable insurance.

Here’s how popular BMW models stack up.

BMW insurance groups: A quick overview

Like all UK cars, BMWs are sorted into insurance groups from 1 (cheapest) to 50 (most expensive). These groups are based on:

• Repair costs and parts
• Car value and performance
• Security and safety features

In general, you’ll find BMWs on the higher end of the scale. But if you’re set on a BMW, there are still smart options for lower insurance.

BMW 1 Series insurance group

The 1 Series is BMW’s most compact hatchback - ideal for city drivers who want BMW style without the premium price tag.

• 118i SE 1.5L Petrol: Group 15-18
• 118d Sport 2.0L Diesel: Group 19-21‍
• M Sport or M135i trims: Group 28-36

Top tip: Stick to SE or Sport trims with smaller engines for more affordable insurance.

The lower the number, the cheaper your insurance is likely to be. Find out more about car insurance groups here.

BMW 3 Series insurance group

The 3 Series is one of BMW’s most popular models. On the higher side of insurance groups, but it can be a smart choice for motorway driving and family life. 

• 316i/318i SE (1.6L–2.0L Petrol): Group 21-25
• 320d EfficientDynamics: Group 24-27
• 330i or M Sport trims: Group 30-42

Again, avoid higher trims or performance engines if you're trying to keep the cost of insurance down.

BMW X1 and X3 insurance group

If you’re after a compact SUV, the BMW X1 and X3 are popular with drivers who want extra space with premium finishes.

• BMW X1 1.5L SE: Group 18-22
• BMW X3 2.0L xDrive: Group 23-30
• Sport and M Sport trims: Group 31-40+

BMW X5 insurance group

The BMW X5 is a large luxury SUV. Great for families… but it does sit in a high insurance group.

• X5 xDrive30d SE 3.0L Diesel: Group 42-45
• X5 M Sport trims: Group 45-50

Not the cheapest to insure. These are best suited to experienced drivers with a strong history.

BMW electric and hybrid insurance groups

BMW also has a growing range of electric and hybrid models:

• BMW i3 (electric): Group 21-27
• BMW i4 (electric saloon): Group 35-40‍
• BMW iX3 (SUV): Group 43-46‍
• BMW i5 / i7 (luxury EVs): Group 47-50

Electric BMWs still fall into higher groups due to repair costs and the amount of tech involved. But they may be cheaper to run overall.

Which BMW is cheapest to insure?

If you're focused on lowering your insurance cost with a BMW, go for:

• BMW 1 Series 118i SE (1.5L) - Group 15-18
• BMW X1 1.5L SE - Group 18-22
• BMW i3 (Electric) - Group 21-27

Avoid M Sport or high-performance trims, and stick with smaller petrol engines or entry-level electric options.

Summary: BMW insurance groups at a glance

Here’s a quick rundown of where each BMW model typically falls:

• BMW 1 Series: Group 15-36
• BMW 3 Series: Group 21-42
• BMW X1: Group 18-22
• BMW X3: Group 23-40+
• BMW X5: Group 42-50
• BMW i3: Group 21-27‍
• BMW i4/i5/iX3: Group 35-50

New to the UK? Our car insurance is made for you

At Marshmallow, we don’t believe in quoting higher prices to drivers who are new here just because they have less driving experience in the UK. That’s why we use your full driving history from back home to help give you a fairer quote.

Get a quote with Marshmallow today and see how much you could save