For The 318i returns almost 50mpg and has low company car tax liability, while M Sport cars have a muscular bodykit, larger alloys, lowered suspension, sports front seats and aluminium trim.

Against Presumably, you're choosing the 318i on financial grounds, so picking this dearest trim seems a bit daft. Plus, this engine has nothing like the grunt or economy of the diesel engines.

BMW 3 Series Saloon

What Car? says

5 out of 5 stars

As with any 3 Series, this is a fine car in its own right, but if were spending this much money, we'd forego a little kit and spend it on one of the diesel versions.

Reader review rating

3.451613
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Key facts

0–60mph
9.1 secs
Top speed
130 mph
Average mpg
47.9
Tank range
632 miles
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Features

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Size

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Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

It's hard to go wrong with the 3 Series, but the diesels are the best bet. Even the cheapest of these performs strongly, but the 320d really hits the sweet spot for price, economy and emissions. It's all the car most of us will ever need.

That's not to say it's all the car we'll ever want. The more powerful 330d and 335d are quicker still and more desirable, with extraordinary muscle and surprising economy. They're every bit as swift as the big six-cylinder petrol models, which will cost more to run.

Thanks to BMW’s Efficient Dynamics fuel-saving measures, though, even the petrol versions are cleaner and greener than most rivals.

Basic ES versions come with a reasonable rather than generous level of kit. The SE adds more toys, but on balance the ES is better value. M Sport models have a sportier feel, with lowered suspension, larger alloys and brushed aluminium trim.

Inclusive servicing packages are available, which makes budgeting easier.

Reader test team says:

BMW 3 Series Saloon 318i M Sport (127bhp) 4dr

A very good car to drive on a decent run, around…

Clive Woollard

2 out of 5 stars

BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d M Sport 4dr

This is a fab car which I have enjoyed owning and…

Graeme Hancocks

4 out of 5 stars

BMW 3 Series Saloon 320i 4dr

A good car completely spoiled by Run-Flat tyres.…

Alistair Beveridge

1 out of 5 stars

BMW 3 Series Saloon 320i 4dr

I've had this company car for approx 30 months and…

Rob O'Hare

4 out of 5 stars
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