How to get a great deal on BMW’S superb compact exec
FROM £6,500 Compact exec makes sense as a fun-to-drive family car second-hand
BMW launched the original 3 Series way back in 1975. In those days it was an expensive car made in relatively small numbers, and the first-generation version came in two-door saloon form only; there was no estate, coupé, convertible or a four-door saloon.
In the intervening four decades the model has become a big seller in the UK; such is its popularity that it now outsells the Ford Mondeo.
So while the 3 Series may no longer be exclusive, it’s more desirable than ever thanks to BMW’S attention to detail when it comes to engineering and build quality. Yet plentiful supply is also matched by steady demand, so while there are lots of 3 Series to go round, their prices remain high.
History
THE sixth-generation BMW 3 Series saloon was launched in the UK in February 2012. Codenamed F30 by
BMW, it came in 328i, 335i and 320d specs. A 330d model appeared in July, alongside a hybrid (the Activehybrid3), and from this point a 320i was also introduced with xdrive four-wheel drive.
The 316i and rear-wheel-drive 320i Efficientdynamics joined the range in November 2012, both powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine. A Touring appeared in September 2012, along with 316d and 318d engines. A DAB radio was standard from January 2013, when the 325d arrived.
A facelift in July 2015 brought styling tweaks, LED headlights, new engines and an upgraded cabin to the range. A year later the 330e plug-in hybrid replaced the Activehybrid3 variant.
Which one?
THERE are no engines or transmissions that we’d suggest you steer clear of, because they’re all great to use. The more powerful motors are especially desirable and they’re only thirsty if you
use the available performance. What tends to be expensive is the servicing, although independent specialists can help cut maintenance costs here.
Standard equipment on all cars includes six airbags and ESP, along with alloy wheels, Bluetooth and climate control. SE trim adds dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors and automatic lights and wipers, while Sport cars come with sports seats and a sports steering wheel. Modern trim features part-leather upholstery, plus Luxury and M Sport get full leather and larger alloys, with the latter adding a bodykit and sports suspension.
Alternatives
THE closest rival is the rear-wheel-drive Mercedes C-class. It’s not as much fun as the BMW, but it’s superbly built, reliable and comes with a cast-iron image, although prices tend to be high.
The Audi A4 is sold in front or fourwheel-drive forms, with AWD cars being
especially well suited to towing. The Jaguar XE is a newer rival to consider, but used prices are coming down. The semi-premium Volkswagen Passat is also worth a look, as is the Mazda 6.
Verdict
THERE are cheaper family cars and some offer more practicality, but if you’re looking for a car that majors on image, build quality and a brilliant driving experience, the BMW 3 Series might well be the choice for you.
Efficient engines mean you get power without crippling fuel bills, and if you buy a model with xdrive, you’ll have driving security all year round. In 2014 the 3 Series won our Best Compact Executive Car title for the sixth time in a row, because “it combines invigorating driving dynamics with low running costs, a decent dose of practicality and bags of upmarket kerb appeal”. While the BMW might seem costly, spend time with one and you’ll see why it’s actually fine value.