For This is a smooth and free-revving engine, and M Sport cars have a muscular bodykit, larger alloys, lowered suspension, sports front seats and brushed aluminium trim.
Against Our preferred 320d is not that much dearer - in fact, the 320d ES is cheaper than this model - and the diesel engine has more low-down pull, as well as better economy.
If we were spending this much money on a 3 Series, we'd give the sporty styling a miss and invest in a 320d instead.
Any 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.
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