“The top of the range M Sport model features a sporty bodykit, gorgeous sports leather seats and lowered sports suspension.”
It’s incredible to think that the BMW 3 Series has been on sale for almost 40 years and that six generations on, time has done little to dent its appeal.
In fact, we think the latest version is the best in the business, declaring it our winner of the 2014 Carbuyer Best Executive Car award, despite stiff competition from the likes of the Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS and the new Infiniti Q50.
The current BMW 3 Series is available in six trims, but opt for the M Sport and you miss out on the two entry-level engines, the 316i and the 316d, but there’s still a wide range of efficient petrol and diesel options.
On the petrol side there’s the choice of the 182bhp 320i, which averages 43.3mpg. The more powerful 242bhp 328i averages 44.1mpg, while the range-topping 302bhp 335i will return 35.8mpg.
In terms of diesels, you can choose between the 141bhp 318d, which averages a very respectable 65.7mpg, or the 182bhp 320d which still manages a fine 62.8mpg. The most powerful BMW 325d produces 215bhp while returning 57.6mpg.
There’s also the option of a 255bhp 330d (57.6mpg) and a 309bhp 335d (52.3mpg.) Four-wheel drive (badged xDrive) is standard on the 335d and optional on the 320i, 320d and 330d.
Standard spec is high on all M Sport models, but most will be attracted by its BMW M3-inspired looks thanks to its M Sport bodykit, lower sport suspension, sportier front and rear bumper and large 18 or 19-inch wheels. Inside there’s a leather interior with supportive sport seats, parking sensors and climate control.
Good points
As we’ve already mentioned, the BMW 3 Series is our favourite executive car – and for good reason, too.Its range of engines make it one of the most efficient models in its class. The interior is a comfortable place to spend time, the dash is clearly laid out and we think it feels like it’s well made.There’s also plenty of kit, but the biggest reason to order a BMW 3 Series over its rivals is due to the fact it's loads of fun to drive. Nothing else in its beats its agile handling and all the engines are smooth and powerful.
Bad points
If we are going to level criticism at the BMW 3 Series it would be that it still only offers average space for passengers and the boot could be bigger with a lower lip for ease of loading.Be careful with options too, they all add up to dramatically inflate the list price of your new car.
What you get
- Alloy wheels
- Alarm
- Rear parking sensors
- Tyre pressure sensors
- Passenger & Driver airbag
- Front side airbags
- Curtain airbags
- Front fog lights
- Auto climate control
- Full leather seats
- Leather steering wheel
- Height adjustable driver's seat
- Front electric windows
- Single CD player
- AUX stereo input
- Cruise control
- Stop/Start
- Sports suspension
- Sports seats
- Rear electric windows
- Bluetooth
Recommended optional extras
- Metallic paint
- Media package (inc. sat-nav)
- Eight-speed automatic gearbox
Our choice
The BMW 325d M Sport offers the best of all worlds. High-power BMW M3 looks, sportscar pace, great handling, plus the ability to average 58mpg – making it one of the best all-rounders on the market.
Keyword: BMW 3 Series M Sport review