For The 318i returns getting on for 45mpg and has low company car tax liability. Upgrading to SE from ES adds dual-zone climate control, cruise control and reversing sensors.

Against This engine has nothing like as much grunt as the diesel engines, and can't match their economy, either.

BMW 3 Series Touring

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

This may be the cheapest 3 Series, but you'd never know to drive it. Good as it is, though, we'd urge you to try and dig a little deeper for a diesel-engined version.

What Car? readers say

3.839506


Key facts

0–60mph
9.5 secs
Top speed
130 mph
Average mpg
44.8
Tank range
623 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole BMW 3 Series Touring range

Cheaper

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The full BMW 3 Series review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

Any BMW 3 Series Touring makes a good buy, but some are better than others. If you regularly travel with a full load of passengers and luggage, then the diesels are the best bet.

Our favourite is the 320d, which has plenty of pull but still delivers almost 60mpg on the combined cycle. Low emissions make it a good choice for business drivers, too, as benefit-in-kind tax bills will be low.

The bigger diesels offer even more muscle, but at a price. Most of the petrol models are refined and swift, although the 318i won’t be as happy as the others with a heavily loaded boot. The larger engines will hit you with high fuel costs, although to be fair most 3 Series are more economical than similarly priced rivals.

Inclusive servicing packages are available, which will help make budgeting easier, and will improve resale values, since they can be transferred to subsequent owners.

Reader test team says:

BMW 3 Series Touring 318d SE 5dr

Great to drive and not too sluggish either for a 318d. Good seat position. Rear room is better than I expected On the whole I am really pleased with…

Bill Thornton

4 out of 5 stars

BMW 3 Series Touring 320i SE 5dr

This is the first BMW that I have had, and it will be the last. the failure of all four ignition coils over a period of 6 months ( the first at 18…

Stuart Gerrish

3 out of 5 stars

BMW 3 Series Touring 320i SE 5dr

I have owned this 'facelift' model since new from January 2009. No major problems so far. Until... My I-Drive had what appeared to be a minor…

Gary Shamsi

4 out of 5 stars

BMW 3 Series Touring 318d M Sport Business Edition 5dr

This is my first BMW and I have to say I’m a little disappointed. This is a company vehicle and replaces a Mazda 6 and was selected primarily for tax…

Andrew Bathie

3 out of 5 stars
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