BMW 3-Series Saloon (2012 - 2019) 330d M Sport (Business Media) 4d Step Auto (2013/13) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Well, people are quite surprised when I let them out at junctions, is that going against the grain of the stereotypical BMW image?
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Generally like the car - at least that's what they say to my face!
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, but only with more comfortable seats, otherwise the larger 5 series.
What are you likely to buy next?
Pass, I'm still enjoying this one.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£405
When did you buy the car?
June 2013
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes, personal lease through SVL, £405 p/m on 6 + 35 month deal. Much cheaper than £700 quote on bmw website. List price £39k.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Performance vs economy figures (0-60 in 5.6s and 57mpg...although not at the same time!), and all the 5 star reviews of 3 series.
What was the dealer like?
SVL / Leaseplan order went smoothly and according to expected timescales (12 weeks build/delivery time). Car supplied by Knights, delivered on a truck with 7 miles on clock, Knights delivery driver was very good.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
In a word, excellent. It's fast, smooth, perfectly balanced, and has tonnes of grip (especially in the dry!). Traction control works well to keep car rooted in all conditions (it hasn't snowed yet though). The sports/comfort mode switch along with step auto box and adaptive dampers changes the set up so you get two cars in one - smooth family car when you've got the kids in the back, fast sports car when you're on your own. Great on motorway, great on A-roads. I decided against 19" optional alloys as run-flat tyres do give a slightly firmer ride. Two negative points that, for me, make this car not quite perfect: 1) sport seats are not very comfortable for tall, long legged drivers due to being narrow with high sides 2) the pedals are offset too far to the right exaggerating the seat issue.
What's it like to park?
Front and rear parking sensors with visual radar display make parking a breeze. However, need to watch out for even standard kerbs as front spoiler is low.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Yes, creaking noise from steering wheel. Minor but annoying issue that required overnight at dealer.
What's most practical about your car?
Has to be the efficient but powerful and smooth diesel engine. Boot space is pretty decent too.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Xenon/LED lights - they look fantastic and transform the appearance of the car. I can't believe BMW let these cars on the road without them - a must have option! Adaptive dampers and 8-speed semi-auto box also fantastic.
