BMW 3 Series review

From £32,595

The current BMW 3 Series is a car at the top of its game. It's practical, packed with tech, quick and efficient... and a great driver's car.

  • BMW 3 Series
  • For: Superb handling, efficient engines, great interior
  • Against: Evolutionary styling, numb steering, expensive to buy
  • Verdict: Remains the compact executive to beat

BMW created the benchmark for the premium compact saloon back in 1975 – and the 3 Series is now into its seventh generation.

Launched in 2019, the latest 3 Series still looks familiar: welcome news for those who find the giant front grilles of many other BMWs a little unpalatable.

Its interior is beautifully finished with high-end materials and a new BMW Cockpit infotainment display, along with voice control that responds to “Hey BMW”. If you’ve used Siri or Alexa, you’ll feel right at home.

There’s a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, including a 330e plug-in hybrid with CO2 emissions of just 38g/km. The 374hp M340i, meanwhile, is a low-calorie version of the formidable M3 sports saloon.

Switching to the Touring (estate) adds greater space and practicality, along with around £2,500 to the price.

That said, a 320d Touring Sport could be all the car you’ll ever need, with elegant design, superb road manners, and efficient engine and a large boot. As the world turns to SUVs, you’re almost guaranteed a little exclusivity.

KEY INFO

  • Launched: 2018
  • Facelifted: TBC
  • Due for replacement: TBC
Specs
Model: BMW 3 Series
Prices from: £32,595
Engines: 2.0T 156/184/258, 3.0T, 2.0d 150/190, 3.0d, 2.0T PHEV
Fuel type:
Gearboxes: 6-speed manual, 8-speed auto
Bodystyles:
Trims: SE, Sport, M Sport, M340i/d
Euro NCAP:
(2019)
Power: 150-374 hp
0-62mph: 4.4-8.4 seconds
Fuel economy: 34.9-65.6 mpg
CO2: 30-185 g/km
Dimensions (l/w/h): 4,709/1,827/1,435 mm
Boot capacity: 480 litres
Warranty: 3 years / unlimited miles

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