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

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Erm, I can drive?!

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

    All love it and have been amazed at the power it creates; considering it's an oil burner.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, the latest model.

    What are you likely to buy next?

  • 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?

    £16,000

    When did you buy the car?

    July 2011

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I got what I thought was a great price after some haggling.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Fantastic; no grumbles at all.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The twin turbo powered 3ltr lump is quite simply stunning. Endless amounts of power and torque with very little lag. It pulls like a steam train and will leave practically every petrol powered hot hatch in its wake. It can get rather lairy and tail happy in the wet but the traction control can easily cope, turning it off adds to the experience!

    What's it like to park?

    Front and rear parking sensors coupled with the auto dipping mirrors make it a doddle, even my wife can park this car straight(ish).

  • Living with it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Yes, steering column was replaced under warranty, as was the turbo vacuum hoses. Fortunately I did not have to pay for this myself!

    What's most practical about your car?

    Easy to live with day to day, leather seats are great, boot is very spacious and the interior is plush.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    High bean assist is brilliant, the wife loves the heated seats!