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

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Not much any more - 3 series are pretty ubiquitous so not the bad image there once was. Hopefully people aren't judging me by the car I drive. If they do, well then that's their problem.

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

    Everybody really likes it - most of them far more than me. I can take or leave the looks, but others really rave about it being really nice and aggressive looking.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yep. Love pretty much everything about it.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    A BMW Coupe - M Sport

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £14,500

    When did you buy the car?

    October 2008

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Got a decent deal, but thing I could have haggled harder and got some more off. This was before everyone started losing their jobs, I reckon I'd have saved a grand on what I paid if I bought it today.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted something faster than my 1.4 ford fiesta, Not that difficult really. Needed to be reliable and not japanese.

    What was the dealer like?

    Small family run place in Pontefract - not BMW dealer. Great service, and very honest and helpful.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Amazing now that i've fitted some Michelin run flats - the previous bridgestones were shocking. Car handles great, and if you do push it too far the DSC/DTC (traction and stability control) are pretty good at getting you back on the straight and narrow.

    What's it like to park?

    Rear park sensors help, but can still be a pain - much bigger than my Fiesta so may take some getting used too.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nothing's gone wrong so far - car is smooth, responsive and a joy to drive. Hope nothing does go wrong as it will probably cost an arm and a kidney to fix.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Auto lights and wipers, and the hill start assist. The fact that my rear seats don't fold down is amazingly practical. Apparently a cost option on beemers! (Tongue firmly in cheek)

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    would find it difficult to choose between the I Dirive with voice control or the ipod USB connection. And the hill start assist is pretty good too.