For This, the most powerful diesel in the three, gives astonishing performance. M Sport cars have a suitably muscular bodykit, larger alloys, lowered suspension, sports front seats and aluminium trim.

Against It's hard to justify the extra it costs over the already very quick 330d, and any one of the smaller diesels will be cheaper to run.

BMW 3 Series Saloon

What Car? says

5 out of 5 stars

If you want the ultimate in diesel performance, here it is. But, for the rest of us who live in the real world, one of the smaller diesels will make much more sense.

Reader review rating

3.451613
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Key facts

0–60mph
6 secs
Top speed
155 mph
Average mpg
42.2
Tank range
557 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:

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

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4 out of 5 stars
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