BMW 3 Series Saloon review

Driving
The Coupe is a classic BMW, with crisp, adjustable handling, a supple ride and strong high-speed body control, plus good brakes. We tested the optional Active Steering, but this contributed little to the driving experience, and we would suggest saving the money to spend on more worthwhile extras. The standard system is incisive and perfectly weighted, anyway. There's a wide range of engines offered with both models, including BMW's direct-injection, twin-turbo 3.0-litre petrol unit. The 335i is as flexible as any thoroughbred diesel we have tested, delivering a thumping 400Nm of torque, which peaks at an incredibly low 1,300rpm. And as it gathers pace - without a hint of turbo lag - the soundtrack that accompanies it is astonishing. It's an amazing unit. But the 335d diesel is also offered. With 286bhp, it has the same power output as a 1993 M3, but backs this up with a thumping 580Nm of torque. Straight-line pace is amazing and, while it may not sound as exciting as its stablemate, in everyday situations, the 335d is the faster of the two.

Marketplace
Pictures don't do justice to what is BMW's best-selling sports model. The two-door 3 has a taut and poised air. It's as though the sheet metal has been stretched tightly over the engine and wheels, across the rear-set cockpit and down the softly finished tail. But it wouldn't be a head-turner without suitable finishing touches, and BMW hasn't disappointed here. Sleek wing mirrors, bespoke headlamps with ring running illumination and LED tail-lamps add to the rakish looks. A range of four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines will be offered, from 320i and 320d to 335i and 335d range-toppers. Ample choice, then, to tackle the Mercedes CLK, Audi A5. Alfa Romeo Brera and Peugeot 407 Coupe.

Owning
Climb inside and the Coupe offers a personal touch - passing the driver and passenger their seatbelts once the doors have been pulled shut. It's a neat trick, even if it was pioneered by Mercedes long before. All occupants are guaranteed to be sitting comfortably, courtesy of a snug, driver-focused cockpit. It's civilised, well laid-out and assembled from top-quality materials. Needless to say, retained values reflect this by being excellent, and all engines supply a great balance of economy in relation to power output - particularly the 320i and 320d, which are as economical as small family hatchbacks. Prices are hefty, though, for both SE and M Sport variants.