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BMW 3 Series (From Bromsgrove Advertiser)
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BMW 3 Series
Overall
rating: 5 stars
We already loved the BMW 3 Series, and the latest facelift (on the saloon and Touring estate models) has done nothing to change our minds. The sharp-edged styling won't be to everyone's taste - although we think it looks better than before - but beneath it lies the most complete compact executive that we've yet seen. The interior shares many design cues with the 5 Series and 7 Series, as well as high-quality materials and clean, modern design. Range-topping versions come with BMW's familiar iDrive controller for various stereo and satnav functions - and it's much improved on this model - but cheaper versions make do with (still easier to understand) buttons. Plenty of adjustment makes for a very comfortable driving position, and there's plenty of room in the back for passengers and luggage, even if the Three falls a little shy of the Audi A4 in both respects.
Driving dynamics are still the Three's greatest asset - on both the saloon and Touring models - and sensibly the company hasn't tinkered with them as part of the facelift. BMW's trademark 50:50 weight distribution and rear-wheel drive ensure than even the most basic versions corner and steer with a precision that rivals just can't match. A well-damped ride and excellent noise insulation mean that high-speed motorway cruising is accomplished just as easily, although one of the few complaints is that the ride can occasionally seem a little too firm. Even with run-flat tyres, the refinement levels stay high, though.
The current base 318i actually has a 2.0-litre engine, but it spins smoothly and gives decent performance if you work it hard. Six-cylinder power is still available in the 325i, 330i and 335i, with all providing strong acceleration and effortless high-speed cruising. The 330d gives astonishing performance, but the quiet, responsive and ultra-frugal 320d diesel is where the smart money goes - certainly for anyone covering higher mileages.
What's to like
1. Superb handling
2. Motorway refinement
3. Brilliant 320d diesel engine
What's not to like
1. Very expensive options
2. Aggressive image
3. Ride can occasionally be too firm
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BMW 3 Series
BMW 3 Series
BMW 3 Series
BMW 3 Series
See also
Environment
rating: 4 stars
Thanks to BMW's Efficient Dynamics technology (including Stop/Start on some models), the 3 Series is at the top of its class. The 318d puts out just 123g/km, with the 320d not far behind on 128. Both return around 60mpg, which is extremely impressive.
Styling
rating: 4 stars
BMW's design language isn't to everyone's tastes, but the 3 Series looks even sharper after its latest facelift, and it's far more conservative than cars like the 6 and 7 Series.
Handling
rating: 5 stars
In a word - brilliant. Find yourself on a favourite back road and there are few cars at any price that come close to matching the Three's dynamic prowess. Its rear-wheel drive chassis is by far the best in its class, and the Touring is every bit as good to drive as the saloon through the bends.
Comfort
rating: 4 stars
Generally, the BMW manages to combine a decent ride with its sporty handling. But, just occasionally, the ride does take on something of a firm edge. However, overall, it's a small price to pay for its great drive.
Quality
rating: 4 stars
The Three is built to an impressively high standard, although the cabin can't quite match the Audi A4's for ambience or perceived quality.
Performance
rating: 4 stars
All engines provide class-competitive amounts of thrust, although you need to work the 318i's engine hard to get the best from it. The 320d gives the best blend of performance and economy, but the more powerful 330d, 335d and the petrol 335i provide real fireworks.
Roominess
rating: 4 stars
Compared to some previous versions of the 3 Series, this latest model is much better for passengers and luggage. However, in both respects, it can't quite match the Audi A4, which is a bigger car all-round. The Touring gives useful extra practicality over the saloon, but the wheelarches intrude into the boot space.
Costs
rating: 4 stars
BMW dealers are still among the priciest when it comes to servicing, but typically long gaps between the variable service intervals and excellent fuel economy courtesy of the Efficient Dynamics technology help keep the Three's costs down. Brilliant residuals mean it makes sense for both private users and company leasing.
Value
rating: 3 stars
Equipment levels are far better than they used to be, but the Audi A4 makes it look rather expensive.
Stereo
rating: 4 stars
The standard stereo is no more than segment-average. The sat-nav unit works well and the iDrive that controls the unit on some models, and the graphics on the dashboard screen, are much improved on this facelifted model.
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