BMW 3-Series Touring (95-99) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Popular version of the 3-Series offered a welcome hike in practicality thanks to the extra luggage space. But a lot of them were bought because of the image - more country life than British Touring Car racer. Not as cheap to run as a Mondeo or Vectra - but choosing a 3-Series is more about style and status. It does not disappoint in any key areas, and its desirable image is holding up well despite being replaced. It's a real driving machine that's still in demand, so prices remain high.
3.5 out of 5

Other BMW reviews

4.5 out of 5

Performance

The Touring gets the same wide range of engines as the saloon. The smaller engines - such as the 316 and 318 - lack the power for towing or carrying heavy loads, so go for a larger engine if this is a concern. 140bhp four cylinder (the 318i) is best of the small engines whilst the six cylinder units (320 upwards) are fabulous. 2.5 tds impresses - it's refined and quick for its age and a shrewd used buy. 328 makes a good cruiser.

4 out of 5

Handling

When even the estate in a range gives the driver something to smile about, you know that it's a special model. The rear-wheel-drive 3-Series is one of these with a chassis that really invites you to drive it hard, although on models without traction control you'll need to watch it in the wet as it has tail-happy characteristics (especially the more powerful models). Ride is quite firm, but fine for the motorway.