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

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I bought it because of the way it looks and drives. If it says "flash git with too much money" I don't care.

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

    Fiance loves it; although I rarely let her drive it because I want to! Its in Space Grey which is just about the best colour IMO. Looks awsome polished.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Without hesitation. One of the best, if not the best car I have owned/driven. I get an average of 52 mpg with mixed motorway and town driving over a 25 mile route to work. On the motorway, 60 mpg is easy to achieve - sometimes seen 65 mpg. On a run to Scotland on big A roads at 60 mph it returned 70 mpg!

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Same again please. Might be tempted by a bigger/more powerfull engine.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £12,700

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2012

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes - price was very reasonable compared to other dealers and a lot cheaper than main dealer.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Had a 116i previously and wanted something a bit bigger and with a bit more ooomph.

    What was the dealer like?

    Stockton Heath Car Sales, Warrington - Dealer was very helpful and would negotiate on trade in value of my old car to my satidfaction. Didn't flinch when I asked him to get it serviced (it was due) by a BMW dealer before I bought it and change a scuffed tyre.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Brilliant! Throw it at corners when you know you are going too fast and it just grips, grips and grips more. Brakes are phenominal. Ride is firm but I like that. I didn't buy an M Sport to pootle round town. Power is enough when you need it. On the motorway its effortless. Very quiet inside at all times.

    What's it like to park?

    Easy. Good visibility. Watch the front bumper though. It's low and I have scraped the underside a few times on kerbs in carparks.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Not a thing. Still drives like new. I bought it with 40k miles on it and have done 11k miles in 5 months and it's still perfect.

    What's most practical about your car?

    It's just a joy to drive. Makes me smile every time I'm in it. Cabin space is good and the boot is big enough. Folding rear seats would have been a good option but not a deal breaker unless you plan to put a bike in it.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Non really. The sound system is good though :-). I also prefer the fitted Alcantera seats to leather.