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

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Reasonably stylish yet practical for a family car, that drivers appreciate the quality and performance.

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

    My wife loves driving it as well, although finds it low to get in and out of, particularly while she was pregnant.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Id buy it again, given the same circumstances at the time, although might be tempted to go for more power or petrol version. I might also go for an SE version instead of the M Sport, as the suspension is rock hard, although the handling is excellent.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Probably a BMW 5-Series Touring, simply because we will need more space with 2 growing boys now.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £11,800

    When did you buy the car?

    January 2011

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Very tidy car, not the cheapest but the car was excellent.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Great to drive, fairly spacious, refined for a diesel, powerful yet economical.

    What was the dealer like?

    One man band, based from home, good to deal with.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Responsive, torquey, powerful, quick, smooth, quiet at speed, reasonably economical, however bone hard suspension. Notchy gear change, occasional clutch judder but apparently a common issue.

    What's it like to park?

    Pretty easy, rear sensors help, mind the alloys on the kerb.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Generally very reliable, DPF warnings but actually was a thermostat not allowing the engine to run hot enough to burn the soot off, resolved in first year, 4 years later still no problem. Tailgate button failed, fairly common on Tourings.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Reasonable space, practical for 2 adults and 2 young kids. solid, reliable, good drive.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Heated seats.