For The Touring version of the 3 Series drives every bit as well as the saloon, with sharp handling, informative steering and a strong range of engines.
Against There are plenty of bigger estate cars for similar money or less. The low-speed ride is firm.
What Car? says
Not the biggest estate, but if you like the saloon and need a little more space, the 3 Series Touring is ideal. The 320d is our favourite, but we'd avoid the larger-engined petrol models.
Reader review rating
There are 32 BMW 3 Series versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
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 happier 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 320d SE (161bhp) 5dr
Great to drive, great to look at and great on fuel…
BMW 3 Series Touring 320i SE (148bhp) 5dr
Too much noise coming from engine, low space for…
BMW 3 Series Touring 320d (175bhp) M Sport 5dr
I've read a number of the reviews on the latest…
BMW 3 Series Touring 320d SE 5dr
Run automatic version for 3 months and 3000 miles…
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