BMW 3-Series Saloon (05-11) - Review

Review by David Ross on 23 April 2010

Last Updated: 16 February 2011

The fifth-generation BMW 3-Series combines a high-quality cabin and decent equipment levels with the best drive among 'executive' saloon alternatives. The striking four-door gets a power boost over the old model but, thanks to the Efficient Dynamics program, both fuel economy and emissions have actually been improved. It's not as good an all-rounder as the Audi A4, with less passenger space and a firmer ride, but it sets the class benchmark for driving pleasure. An Autumn 2008 facelift gave the 3-Series sharper styling and a refreshed interior and also brought a new diesel engine to the line-up in the shape of the 330d. However, the pick of the line-up - for performance and economy - is the excellent 320d EfficientDynamics which is great to drive and is claimed to return an amazing 69mpg.

4.5 out of 5

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4.5 out of 5

Safety

Run-flat tyres help the driver stay in control of the car if there's a punctures and the 3-Series can run for 150 miles at up to 50mph with a 'flat'. Six airbags are standard, including twin front and side airbags plus full-length head airbags while Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) which includes traction control is also included. Six-cylinder models are offered with DSC+, which adds additional features such as Brake Standby, which primes the brakes when it detects the driver suddenly lifting off the throttle and Hill Start Assist which holds manual versions on a gradient allowing the driver to pull away without rolling backwards.