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

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Likes a well engineered and stylish car but also a good shrewd buy.

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

    Love it, to the untrained eye it looks expensive and flash. Edition fit wheels set it off along with Darkline rear lights.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes.... but a 3.0d variant, purely for the power.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    3.0d MSport Touring.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £16,000

    When did you buy the car?

    July 2012

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes, good price and service. Car ex demo one lady owner full spec at good price.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Approved used ex demo, very low miles, full spec including BMW Motorsport wheels and towbar.

    What was the dealer like?

    Really good, took my old 318d to Warrington and it died on the forecourt due to electrical glitch. Car was 140k 54 reg with aftermarket towbar. Dealer took good care of us, wife was duty on call and they got us home to Ayrshire.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Great to drive, not terrifyingly quick but reassuringly swift and punchy on twist roads. Auto very good too, needs sport mode for quick take off but unfussy and responsive. Balanced, poised and controlled but is very firm. Thoroughly pleasant to drive.

    What's it like to park?

    Mirrors very deceptive, paranoia built in and big 18s don't help. Parking sensor useful but reversing light terrible. Steering automatically lighter at parking speed.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nothing so far..... N47s have bad reputation about timing chains but car hasn't skipped a beat to date.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Split tailgate, seats and cargo net. Great for trips to the cash and carry and generally much more practical than my old saloon.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    BMW Motorsport wheels, not that common and stunning. IDrive and leather is nice too.