The M3 scores highly for safety with front and side airbags for front seat occupants plus head airbags for all four passengers. The BMW 3-Series saloon scored well for occupant protection in official European crash tests achieving the maximum five stars for adult occupant safety. A sophisticated electronic stability control system, called DSC+ is standard and includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR).

Buyers who value looks over practicality will opt for the saloon, rather than the Coupe or Convertible. It’s the cheapest of the three and has the largest boot with 450 litres, although the Coupe is close behind with 430 litres of luggage space. The saloon is the only option to have five seats however. As for the Convertible – it makes do with a 350-litre boot which reduces to 210 litres when the roof is down.

The rear seats split and fold on all models while buyers can choose an optional ski hatch – an opening in the centre of the back seats which also features a cover for your skis. Rear parking sensors are standard.