Insurance Group: 22
MPG: 44.8
CO2: 146
0-62 Mph: 9.1 secs
BHP: 143 BHP
Range: 621 miles
PROS: The 3 Series offers fantastic driveability with great handling and top of the range efficiency thanks to the ‘Efficient Dynamics’ technology. The fuel economy and low CO2 emissions result in low running costs and also make it attractive as a company car option.
CONS: The suspension is a touch too firm and the exterior styling is a little bland.
The 318i ES has a 143 bhp engine which delivers 140 lb-ft of torque at 4250 rpm. 0-62 mph takes a fairly impressive 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 130mph is more than acceptable for a car of this type.
BMW have improved the suspension following criticism of its predecessor's harsh ride, however the ride is still too firm and many drivers will find it uncomfortable.
The rear-wheel drive setup makes for great handling with the 318i feeling responsive, agile and balanced. The engine is smooth and quiet, with the cabin insulated from outside sounds, although there is a little wind noise at high speeds.
The 3 Series is a good looking car, even though its ubiquity has made it a common sight on UK roads.
The iDrive system is more intuitive to use than before, and the interior is only let down by the number of generic looking buttons and controls that there are for the stereo.
The ES model comes with power steering, stability control, alloy wheels, MP3 connectivity, stereo and air conditioning as standard, with optional extras including leather seats for £1,265, climate control for £545, rear parking sensors for £365, Bluetooth for £250 and satellite navigation for £1,995.
The ‘Efficient Dynamics’ technology that keeps the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions low includes an automatic stop-start system, brake energy regeneration, on-demand control of engine ancillary components and tyres with less rolling resistance along with improved aerodynamics.
BMW have an impressive track record when it comes to reliability so buyers can rest assured that their car will be dependable.
Safety is top rate too with standard equipment including six airbags, dynamic stability control inclusive of anit-lock braking system (ABS), dynamic brake control and dynamic traction control. An optional extra is the Active Security Package (with lane change and lane departure-warning systems) with an alarm as standard.
Saloon cars are fairly impractical by modern standards but the 318i has loads of room in the front and back, with plenty of leg room. The boot is sizable too with 460 litres on offer.
The 318i ES costs £22,695 and has a combined economy of 44.8 mpg and CO2 emissions of 146g/km.
The ES model is the most pared down of the 3 Series models, so it might be worth upgrading to the further equipped M Sport trim which is only slightly more expensive. The 316d offers much better fuel efficiency than the 318i and lower CO2 emissions at a low price, which would be the best option for a company car.
A BMW is a good car to invest in due to the assured quality and service and the 3 Series currently has very good resale values.
A great car to drive and a great car to run – the 318i has fantastic handling and makes light work of windy country roads. There is plenty of room both in front and in the back, as well as a spacio...
The 318i M Sport comes equipped with a wealth of features, which is what marks it apart from the ES and SE models. The car handles beautifully and makes driving a pleasure, especially as it also...
The 320i has a powerful engine, smooth handling and firm suspension making it a pleasure to drive. The running costs are low due to the 'Efficient Dynamics' technology, which provides great fuel ec...
The BMW 3 Series is a very popular car, and for good reason. It offers great performance with smooth acceleration and highly responsive brakes and throttle, making it a very pleasing car to drive, ...
The 325i SE is a great, roomy car that is reasonably priced for a BMW and handles well, offering fantastic value for money with relatively low running costs. The 325d option does offer better econo...
You might want to read reviews for other Medium Exec cars that you can then compare to the BMW 3 Series. Here are some popular BMW 3 Series alternatives:
