Other BMW 3-Series (2005 - 2013) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Solid and dependable but with a sport edge.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Hopefully the same as what I think?????

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes. Really good quality car, with powerful engine and great handling.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Another of the same or an Audi A4 Estate.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £10,600

    When did you buy the car?

    September 2011

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Reasonable deal. The price was OK, with a new MOT. The car had fairly high mileage for it's age but was in good condition.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted a quality estate car with a decent performance with reasonable economy.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very professional outfit mainly selling ex company and ex lease cars.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Excellent. Handling is solid and sure footed always. Powerful 3L diesel is fantastic. Buckets of torque with only a little turbo lag. Sport mode deals with that. Steering lacks a bit of feel.

    What's it like to park?

    Not bad, rear visibility is a bit lacking like most modern cars but the rear parking sensors help. Really tight turning circle makes parking pretty easy.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    The Front suspension has had to be fully rebuilt after being worn out. This seems to be fairly common on this model after about 100k miles and is pretty expensive to do. Otherwise only tyres have needed replacement.

    What's most practical about your car?

    BIG boot space.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Car not loaded with options. Leather seats are nice and the Cruise control takes the stress out of driving long distances.