BMW 3 Series review
The latest BMW 3 Series is the best yet - it's better built, more efficient and just as great to drive
The BMW 3 Series has dominated the compact executive sector since it was first introduced back in 1975. This all-new, sixth-generation model has a lot to live up to, then - especially since recent improvements to the Audi A4 and Mercedes C-Class have weakened its grip on the class crown – but the result is a car that’s raised the bar even further. It’s bigger, better built and more refined than ever before, plus it comes packed with kit and is available with a wide range of punchy and efficient petrol and diesel engines. In fact, it was crowned Best Compact Executive model at our New Car Awards 2012. As you’d expect, it’s offered as a sleek saloon and a practical Touring estate model. But as of 2013, it’s also available as an even more spacious 3 Series GT model, which BMW says offers the “dynamic, sporting” qualities of the saloon, with the “practicality and versatility” of the Touring. The manufacturer’s intelligent new xDrive four-wheel-drive system is now available in the UK for the first time, and gives BMW a direct rival to the popular Audi quattro models. The new 3 Series Coupe has already been revealed in concept form and will be badged 4 Series when it arrives in showrooms by the end of 2013, with a 4 Series Convertible and more practical four-door Gran Coupe following.
Our choice: 320d ED SE
Styling
The latest 3 Series is virtually indistinguishable from the car it replaces from the side, thanks to the same low nose, relatively upright windscreen and trademark kink in the C-pillars. However, from the front, you’ll find distinctive new headlamps with LED running lights, while at the back it looks much more like the larger 5 Series. There are six trim levels to choose from – ES, SE, M Sport, Luxury, Modern and Sport – with all cars getting 17-inch alloy wheels, air-con, cruise control, keyless start and a choice of either wood or metal-effect trim inserts as standard. SE cars come with dual-zone climate control, parking sensors and automatic headlights and wipers, while M Sport trim adds 18-inch wheels, a leather interior and an M Sport steering wheel, suspension and body kit. Sport models are marked out by racy black trim that outlines the windows and lower grille and a garish red finish to the interior. The cabin is slickly styled, with a clearly laid-out dashboard that’s orientated towards the driver. All the materials have a classy look and feel, and build quality is first-rate. Thanks to a good mix of high quality materials and slender multifunction steering wheel, it feels just as upmarket as the Audi’s only more modern. The latest version of BMW’s excellent iDrive cabin controller – mounted next to the gearlever – is more user friendly than the A4’s standard centre console info screen. The excellent driving position and extended wheelbase allow the driver and passengers to get comfortable.
Driving
The previous-generation 3 Series set the standard for driving dynamics, so it’s no surprise that BMW's engineers have worked hard to make the latest car just as engaging. As you’d expect, the steering is direct and well weighted, there’s plenty of grip and the rear-wheel-drive chassis feels beautifully balanced. Noise levels are lower than before, too, and can now easily match the refined Audi A4. All models get Drive Performance Control, which allows you to select from Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes – each setting lets you fine tune the steering, throttle and ESP settings to suit road conditions. Optional Adaptive Drive damping and Sport steering deliver an even sharper drive, while the comfort setting serves up a softer ride. The engine line-up is made up of a four and six-cylinder engines, with the flagship 335i managing 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds while returning an official fuel consumption figure of 35.8mpg. However, our pick of the range is the excellent 181bhp 2.0-litre diesel in the 320d, which is capable of sprinting from 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds while returning an average mpg figure of more than 60. Every car comes with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a slick eight-speed automatic is available as an option. The 320i xDrive model, which features the firm’s advanced, electronically controlled permanent four-wheel-drive system, offers more reassuring wet weather handling.
Reliability
Every 3 Series feels solidly built and BMW’s reputation for reliability is impressive. The brand finished 14th out of 30 in the 2012 Driver Power survey, one place ahead of Audi. The old car finished 46th in the Top 100, with a brilliant sixth place in the handling category, ninth for braking and 13th for performance. Although, owners were less complimentary in other categories – the harsh ride and lack of practicality were picked out as the BMW’s biggest problems. The BMW 3 Series has a full five-star crash test rating from Euro NCAP. All versions come fitted with six airbags, electronic stability control and tyre pressure monitoring. Also included is BMW Assist, which automatically calls the emergency services if the car is involved in a serious accident. The lengthy options list includes blind spot monitoring and lane keep assist systems, but they are expensive.
Practicality
BMW has answered criticism of the previous-generation 3 Series’ cramped cabin, by making the new car bigger in almost every area. The wheelbase has been stretched by 50mm, which has paid dividends inside. It now rivals the Audi A4 for space, with rear seat passengers getting decent head and legroom. There’s also plenty of storage, thanks to deep door pockets, a large glovebox and plenty of cupholders. The boot has also been made bigger, and it’s now capable of carrying a decent 480 litres of luggage. It’s a good shape and it matches the A4 for size, although the BMW does have a higher loading lip, which makes loading more difficult. Unfortunately, you’ll have pay around £650 extra if you want the flexibility of 40:20:40-split folding rear seats, plus luggage nets behind the front seats and across the boot – although the folding rear bench can be bought on its own for £390.
Running Costs
The latest 3 Series is one of the most fuel-efficient compact executive models money can buy, thanks to a reduction in weight and BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology. All diesel models emit a maximum of 120g/km of CO2, but the 320d ED model is the most impressive – although it has a slightly higher price than the standard 320d it emits just 109g/km of CO2 and promises average fuel consumption of 68.9mpg. However, even the scorching 242bhp twin-turbo 328i petrol manages almost 45mpg and emits 149g/km of CO2. BMW also offers a range of great-value pre-paid servicing deals, which should help to keep the cost of mechanical maintenance to a minimum. Lastly, if you want to keep your bank manager happy, we’d recommend steering clear of the expensive options list.
For an alternative review of the latest BMW 3 Series Saloon visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk
Disqus - noscript
Ugly, over priced rep mobile. Noisy, rattly diesel engines. Better off with a Golf.
@petrolhead...what are you talking about??? Have you driven one? Do you own one? The new design is striking and a significant improvement over the previous version, with lots of curves, creases and detail. I have a new 320d Sport in Melbourne Red pearlescent paint, with upgraded alloys and full leather. You can't argue with 0-60 in 7.5 secs, 62mpg and £30/year road tax!!! Also, it drives and handles superbly, with a spacious and comfy interior. This is NOT like a Golf, but much better. Also, from new as a private buy, it is competitively priced due to subsidised PCP deals and high residuals. PS. I am not a long standing BMW fan, as I've just moved from a string of 3 Audi A4's, but I am converted!!!
My wife has one and its the best 3 series that she has owned (4 up to date) - but you would expect that as it is the latest. Too basic, as standard and the auto box can get very confused accelerating up a hill. Haven't found out what causes the stop/start, as it seems entirely inconsistent. It is very economic and goes very well, but I find that inconsistent too.
Too common
Petrolhead must have been sniffing petrol, and difinately has never driven one. BMW are THE world leaders in diesel refinement. Sure if you prefer a petrol driven car I can understand not wanting any diesel. Why do reps love them? Because they do more driving than you ever will.....so know a great car when they drive it. Golf? pretty good for what they are, but compared to ANY 3 series they are garbage - I have driven Golfs.
Mike, you can disable the stop/start by way of the screen menu, if it bothers you.
Well LarryGold and AverageJoe, you're both obviously taken in by all the hype... and I deeply suspect the rep mobile "badge". I used to own a E46 330 coupe, so I'm not anti BMW, I'm just honest and realistic. I'm sorry if the truth hurts. Both the Golf and the 3 series get good reviews (both are good cars) so you take your choice - but to say the 3 series is better is just complete nonsense (in what way is it better?). The 3 series is grossly over priced; it is the ugliest version yet - especially with its droopy front and, undeniably, it makes a terrible racket. I have compared the 3 series back to back with the Golf, and I spent my money on the best car - IE the Golf (when you're spending your own money, trust me, you do a lot of test drives and research until you're absolutely certain. I have test driven the petrol 3 series, but not the diesel. However, I have been a passenger in the diesel - both this current model and the last. You cannot possibly deny, that at the diesel sounds like a rattly ol' tin can... it does - there's simply no getting away from that... it's there for everyone to hear. It's possible to feel it in the cabin, and you can feel it on the gear knob! Taste is a personal thing, and if you guys like it then fair enough. With regard to calling the Golf garbage in comparison, well... that's just a very silly comment isn't it - particularly as it's at least as good as the 3 series in most areas, and better tan the 3 series in many. PS, I'd take those performance figures with a pinch of salt if I were you - I'm afraid you'd be lucky to get 0-62 in the low 8s if you're going down hill with the wind behind it... and have you really achieved 62mpg on a normal run?... I don't think so!! Once again, it's all hype.
Mike. The stop/start can also be disengaged using the button directly above the stop/start switch. Also it will de-activate if the car is in low temp conditions and hasnt yet reached running temps. We have just received the new 316d Touring and I was expecting a really basic underpowered model but a) its built and fitted to mid-range levels (eg tailgate powelift as std) and b) pulls well thanks to the new twin scroll turbo diesel. Only comment would be that the gap between 5th and 6th is a little wide ie 6th too long for normal A roads.
The feature most noticeable is the ride quality - superb ie firm but comfortable.
I'm sorry but BMW are know where near markeing the most refined diesel buy a long shot audi quieter vw quieter ford quieter Renault quieter great car to drive thou but thee diesels need more refinement and suspect when they bring out some new ones they will be .buy the way being a rep doesent mean you no a good car when you drive one matter of fact some of the worst drivers on the road are reps and to call a golf garbage is ridiculous and as for stop start a complete waste of time irritating utterly inconsistent marketing tripe you would probably save a litre of fuel in a year if you was lucky
wind noise like a cabrio!
My new 330D M Sport is a fantastic car to drive, with huge amounts of linear power; however, mine has been let down by squealing brakes since it was first delivered. Be warned, as this seems a recurring problem with this model. Nearly 1200 miles now and the brakes still squeal as I brake to a standstill. BMW UK know of no resolution to the problem, dealer can't help, finance company (Privately leased) seem to want to wriggle and point the finger back to BMW....
I don't like this new front design that the eyes (lamps) mix with the nose ( grill). I will stay with the old models