BMW 3-Series Touring (2005 - 2012) 318i (143bhp) SE 5d Auto (2008/08) 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?
BMW is a premium brand so it probably says I've got more money than sense!
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
People say it looks very smart and everyone is impressed by the leather interior which was included within the "Editions" package. Couldn't specify wood with leather however which still disappoints me.
Would you buy this car again and why?
No. Hard ride. Economy figures are poor compared to published data - so much so that the figures are a con. It's only a few hundreds of pounds a year difference on my low mileage but there's a principle involved.
What are you likely to buy next?
Plan to keep it for a couple of years at least but will probably go for Mercedes C Class Estate or might look around for something a bit smaller.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
July 2008
Did you get a good deal and why?
Dealer tried hard to meet my budget and came up with a better deal than Mercedes.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Wanted premium estate with good economy and bought petrol version because it was £2700 cheaper than diesel and my annual mileage is only around 8000.
What was the dealer like?
Friendly and professional
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Quiet and comfortable and auto changes are smooth. Tyres thump over cats eyes and rough surfaces but handling is excellent. Useless in snow and ice.
What's it like to park?
With front and rear parking sensors it's very easy
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No, but ride is hard and mpg figures are poor compared to published figures, which are unachievable. It's supposed to achieve over 50mpg during extra urban and I never get better than 35 to 41 on any journey. So called professional sat nav is poor and not user friendly via idrive.
What's most practical about your car?
Touring version gives good flexibility with level load area and split fold rear seats.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Bluetooth works really well with both of my mobile phones. Heated seats are a favourite and cruise control is also a benefit when road conditions allow. Puddle lights built into door handles are a nice feature.
