For many, the 3-Series is the definitive small sports saloon. It’s blend of balanced handling, high quality and strong performance have seen sales rocket past traditional family motors, such as the Ford Mondeo.

Styling/Image

Unlike recent BMW designs, the latest 3-Series is understated and elegant. Trademark styling features include a low bonnet, double kidney grille and distinctive kink in the C-pillar, while M-Sport specification adds a neat bodykit. There’s also a choice of saloon, coupe, convertible or estate bodystyles, meaning buyers will be spoilt for choice. Drop-tops now feature a folding metal roof, which adds weight put boosts refinement.

Interior/Practicality

Three trim levels are available – ES, SE and M Sport. All are well equipped, with alloy wheels, air-conditioning, a trip computer and iPod connection. The quality of the cabin is top class, only just lagging behind Audi in terms of fit, finish and materials. However, occupants in the rear will find conditions cramped, while the narrow tailgate opening of the saloon means loading large items can be tricky.

Engine/Performance

Few car companies can boast an engine range as good as BMW’s. The petrol engine line-up includes zesty four cylinder units, creamy-smooth straight sixes and the screaming V8 found in the rapid M3. Diesel fans are equally well catered for. Entry-level 318d and 320d provide a perfect blend of performance, refinement and economy, while the twin-turbo charged 335d serves-up genuine super saloon pace. The firm’s Efficient Dynamics technology means that every motor offers decent returns at the pumps.

Driving experience

Put simply, a BMW 3-Series will handle more sweetly than any of its class rivals. The rear-driven chassis is wonderfully balanced and involving, making the German first choice for keen drivers. The focused M Sport suspension option sharpens the driving experience thanks to stiffened springs and uprated dampers, but it also damages the standard car’s ride comfort. Sadly, the cabin of the 3-Series isn’t always the quietest, as tyre noise can be an issue on some road surfaces.

Ownership Costs

With the 3-Series, BMW has managed to combine a premium ownership experience with low running costs. Pick one of the small diesel engines and you can expect to see returns of nearly 60mpg when you fill-up at the pumps. The German firm has also attempted to take the sting out of servicing. Pay a one-off fee and maintenance is covered for a period of either three or five years. And strong residuals mean you shouldn’t lose out when it comes time to sell.

Safety/Environment

Yet again, BMW’s Efficient Dynamics come to the fore, helping to make the 3-Series the greenest car in the sector. For instance, the entry-level 318d will average 60.1mpg and emit just 123g/km of CO2, yet still accelerate from standstill to 60mph in 9.3 seconds and onto a top speed of 130mph. The only fly in the ointment is the blisteringly fast M3, which struggles to exceed 20mpg and pumps out 295g/km CO2.

Our Choice: BMW 320d SE 4-door