BMW 320d M Sport Touring

The emphasis for BMW’s load carriers hasn’t always been on space, but the firm has generally made its Touring models entertaining to drive. 

They usually look the part, too, and the 3-Series is no exception. 

Like the Mercedes, it has age to contend with (it has been around for five years) but a range of revisions last year ensures it still looks fresh, especially in our test car’s M Sport guise.

In fact, if you’re after a racy estate you should look no further than the BMW. Its rakish tailgate and sloping roofline owe more to fashion than carrying capacity. Our test car’s optional 18-inch M Sport alloys (£195), deep bumpers and side skirts mean it’s the most overtly sporting car here, while the double-kidney grille and Hoffemeister kink in the window line remain true to BMW’s heritage. 

Inside you’ll find the same feeling of familiarity, as the cabin follows a similar layout to the rest of the manufacturer’s range. We have few complaints about where the switchgear is positioned, or even the quality of the plastics used. And after Audi’s MMI system, the iDrive controller is the next best set-up – using it becomes second nature after a short spell at the wheel.

The driving position is spot on and the M Sport seats offer a huge amount of adjustment, comfort and support. The high transmission tunnel, stubby gearlever and chunky sports steering wheel mean you’ll probably find yourself thinking that you’re driving a sports car, rather than an estate. 

Rear passengers are treated to more legroom than in the Audi or Mercedes and, while the boot is awkwardly shaped, the capacity is 30 litres greater than in the Volvo. Collapse the seats and it still can’t match the Audi or Mercedes, though, and the seatbacks don’t lay flat. 

Out on the road, it’s easy to forgive the BMW’s practical limitations, as its 2.0-litre diesel produces 181bhp and 380Nm of torque. Acceleration is impressive, and it sprinted from 0-60mph in a mere 7.9 seconds,  a figure only the larger-engined Mercedes could beat.

None of its rivals can hold a candle to the Touring through corners, though, where the balanced chassis, direct steering and well weighted brake pedal inspire real confidence. The heavy steering does grate in town, as you often crave a lighter set-up during low-speed manoeuvres. And while the firm suspension works well on smooth roads, it isn’t as relaxing as its rivals on uneven surfaces.

Thanks to BMW’s famed EfficientDynamics technology, its sparkling handling doesn’t come at the expense of economy. The Touring boasts the lowest emissions on test (128g/km), while we recorded a respectable 34.6mpg. The former figure, in particular, makes it a compelling choice for business users. 

So, while the BMW doesn’t lead the way for space, there’s no doubting its premium appeal, dynamic ability or surprisingly low running costs. But will that be enough to win this test? 

Details

Chart position: 2
WHY: The BMW sets the standard for driving fun, thanks to its poised rear-wheel-drive chassis. German firm’s EfficientDynamics kit also promises decent fuel returns and tax-friendly running.