BMW 3-Series Compact (01-04) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Compact is the entry-level baby-Beemer. All the badge-kudos and fancy engineering, in a smaller and funkier package. At least that's the theory. Thing is, it looks like its been in a rear-end shunt and isn't really that cheap.
5 out of 5

Other BMW reviews

3.5 out of 5

Running costs

Specify a small engine or a diesel and drive carefully and you'll get plenty of MPG. Residuals are good and servicing is variable with use. Taz about in a big petrol unit and you'll guzzle juice and scoff tyres.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,534 - £2,116 *

Diesel

£1,308 - £1,602 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

12,000-15,000 miles

Warranty

Mechanical 3 yrs/60,000 miles; bodywork 6 yrs

Road tax (12 months)

£170.00 - £270.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

3 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
    153
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
    227
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

3-Series scores quite well on the eco front. With an average of 187 g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are fairly standard for a medium-sized hatchback. The range is not particularly economical, averaging 38 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2