For Compared to an M Sport model, the Sport Plus has some £3000-worth of extra equipment (18-inch alloy wheels, chrome-trimmed grille and tailpipes, and leather-trimed interior) for just a few hundred pounds.

Against The only real problem with the 320i is that the 320d exists, and the diesel engine has more low-down pull, as well as much better economy.

BMW 3 Series Touring

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

Like any 3 Series, this is a fine package, but we can't help being even more tempted by the 320d, which isn't that much more expensive, especially on contract hire.

What Car? readers say

3.839506


Key facts

0–60mph
8.4 secs
Top speed
140 mph
Average mpg
44.1
Tank range
613 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole BMW 3 Series Touring range

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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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