BMW 3-Series Saloon (2012-2019) verdict
The Parkers Verdict
Sharp-suited looks, dynamics honed to prioritise driving pleasure over outright comfort and a broad selection of powertrains to suit those looking to maximise efficiency or speed. Other compact executives are more spacious, some feel more luxurious, while others are even faster. But none of them is a BMW 3 Series Saloon.
It’s a car we can wholeheartedly recommend, with good if not Lexus rivalling reliability and enough modern equipment to get by. The only thing we really wish was more widespread is the Driving Assistant package for the Autonomous Emergency Braking system it brings.
There are plenty out there, so hold out for a well looked after example at a price that isn’t too silly. M3s will bring expensive bills, but the 335i and 340i have much of the fun for less financial risk. If you’re after something a bit more sensible, you can’t go too far wrong with a 320d.
