BMW 3 Series Saloon full 9 point review
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Performance
The 316d and 318i aren’t quick, but there are no weak links in the engine range. The other four-cylinder choices are the gutsier 320i, the 318d and two versions of the 320d. The six-cylinder petrol choices are the 325i and the turbocharged 335i, which goes like a rocket. The three 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesels are the 325d, 330d and 335d, all of which are strong. Transmission options are a six-speed manual, six-speed auto or, one the 335i, a twin-clutch seven-speed semi-automatic transmission.
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Ride & Handling
The 3 Series is the sharpest car to drive in its class. Sublime body control and tenacious grip give it poise through corners, while the steering is accurate and communicative. The firm-but-fair suspension makes you aware of low-speed bumps and coarse surfaces, but it's never uncomfortable.
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Refinement
The 3 Series is a quiet car and makes a great long-distance cruiser. You can tell which fuel the diesel uses, but engine noise is always well isolated and you barely hear it once you're settled on the motorway. Road- and suspension noise are subdued over even the worst road surfaces. Some wind noise can be heard at high speeds, though.
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Buying & Owning
Prices for the 3 Series are more or less on a par with its rivals', although it’s a little pricier than the Audi A4. Resale values aren’t anything special, but most will be run as company cars, and here the BMW’s impressively low CO2 emissions come into their own. The Efficient Dynamics model, for instance, falls into the 13% bracket for company car tax
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Quality & Reliability
This car oozes class. Everything has a solidly constructed, built-to-last feel, while the cabin materials are top quality. Numerous trim combinations allow buyers to tailor the interior to their own tastes. Mechanical reliability won't be a concern, either.
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Safety & Security
The 3 Series scores well for safety, with twin front, side and curtain airbags, run-flat tyres, electronic brakeforce distribution and stability control as standard across the range. It was also awarded a maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests, while deadlocks make life difficult for thieves.
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Behind The Wheel
A good range of adjustment for both the driver’s seat and steering wheel means people of all shapes and sizes can find a suitable position, but the manual seat mechanism is awkward. The standard dashboard layout features simple stereo and heater controls, while the optional sat-nav brings BMW's iDrive central controller.
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Space & Practicality
There's enough legroom for the longest limbs in both the front and back seats. Those over six-feet tall might brush their heads against the ceiling in the rear, however. The boot is big, but not as large as those of some competitors, and it's not as well shaped as an Audi A4's.
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Equipment
Entry ES models come with alloy wheels, a CD player, four electric windows and air-conditioning, but you have to upgrade to SE to get dual-zone climate control and reversing sensors. Range-topping M Sport cars feature a muscular bodykit, larger alloy wheels, lowered suspension, sports front seats and brushed aluminium interior trim.
3 Series rivals
3 Series used car reviews
BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d ES 4dr
With a superb blend of fine economy, a superb drive and plenty of standard kit, this is our favourite version of the 3 Series - and our 2010 Compact Executive of the Year
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