BMW 3-Series Coupe (2006 - 2013) 330d SE (2010) 2d Step Auto Owner Review

The best car I've ever had the privilege to drive and own, with only the suspension noteworthy on really twisty B-roads. For 99.9% of the miles I've covered its been absolutely perfect, a real joy - and 100% dependable. Not a single fault - only ever the suggestion of one when soot eventually clogged the air filter from sitting on the M25 car park, causing sluggish starting. It took over 50k miles for a slight vibration to start in the interior trim - I can be quite OCD about this. My other car, a Touareg, started a dashboard rattle in its first 25 miles - very poor. The fit and finish of the E92 is impeccable. The seats look elegant and unsupportive in an SE, but don't be fooled - in all those miles and with a historical back issue, it didn't once give me a sore back - despite not having a lumbar support. Nappa leather is nice and wears well but cream colours need care to look their best; heated seats would have been nice but not essential as the Nappa leather quickly warms. Rear drive can be interesting on cold and wet surfaces - consider winter tyres if you're reliant solely on the vehicle. Only now with its replacement am I in a position to say that there is considerable benefit to having an AWD variant, and that the adaptive suspension dampers compliments an otherwise comfortable setting that the SE comes as standard with. M Sport owners of the E92 complain of a ride so harsh it cracks the wheels, and I've seen it happen - no problems with the SE here though, its wonderfully compliant and sporty enough for most roads. Don't let the less sporty look of the bumpers etc put you off the SE over the M-sport without actually trying one out first. I learned to love its more elegant looks for the benefits it afforded whilst driving. BMW's 3 ltr diesel engine is an absolute gem - better in every respect for my money than a comparable petrol engine and much better value than an electric car in my personal view. I'd even go so far as to say the 6 speed auto in the E92 is more pleasant to live with over the newer 8 speed box as it sounds more progressive, although the latter is probably contributing to better fuel efficiency and acceleration. I'd state I'd buy another of this make and type tomorrow - but I already have....if that isn't testament to how good this car is, I don't know what is.