Latest first drives BMW 3 Series saloon Dec 2011
Heralded as the driver's choice, the 3 Series has clocked up 12 million sales since first launched in 1975. So the sixth generation of BMW's large saloon has big boots to fill. We take a drive to see if it still has the edge over rivals.
New 3 Series platform is longer and stiffer than before, helping to improve ride quality
What’s new?
This BMW 3 Series may look similar to the old one, but beneath the surface it is all-new. The platform is stiffer and safer than before, and it has grown bigger. A longer wheelbase, extra length and wider wheel tracks all provide more space for passengers and luggage.
The engine range is new, too, with an emphasis on smaller-capacity four-cylinder units instead of BMW's traditional sixes. All engines are turbocharged, even the 335i range-topper. The diesels will sell best, and come in four power outputs from 116bhp to 184bhp.
There's also a revised trim structure. Base ES and mid-line SE variants remain, and the M Sport upgrade that has been so popular in the UK will go on sale later in 2012. BMW has also added three 'lines': Sport, Modern and Luxury.
These get bespoke colour and trim combinations, with unique front bumper inserts and a coloured dashboard strip on the inside. Each has its own coloured ignition key, too: black with red trim for Sport, black with silver trim for Luxury and ivory with aluminium trim for Modern.
The rear end of the 3 Series looks smarter, but still very familiar
BMW says prices of the new 3 Series, which goes on sale in February 2012, are up by around £200 on the current car. The range starts at £24,880 and stretches all the way up to £38,370. We sampled the 320d Modern for our first drive, which costs £29,080.
What’s it up against?
Proving that the junior executive saloon sector is highly competitive, Audi has recently felt the need to facelift the A4 with fresh detailing and a much greener engine range. Mercedes did the same thing earlier in 2011 with the C-class.
Other rivals are few. The Alfa Romeo 159 will soon be withdrawn from sale, the Lexus IS is ageing fast and the Volvo S60 doesn't quite have the image of the German trio.
Read all our large car reviews
Why should I buy one?
Cabin has a sporty feel with a new driver-focused dashboard
The strength of BMW's 3 Series has always been its involving driving dynamics. That hasn't changed with the new model, which is great to drive, while also fixing one major complaint with the old car: its ride quality. The engine range offers swift performance with impressive fuel efficiency and emissions.
It also has an upmarket image, restrained styling and a high-quality feel.
What’s its Achilles’ heel?
The new 3 Series is an expensive car, particularly in the most desirable upper-range trims. Buyers will have to get used to the idea of a £30,000 3 Series diesel, and if you want automatic transmission that'll be another £1,500.
The styling is also evolutionary to the point of being a bit dull, which may put off buyers who want to drive the latest-looking machinery.
And BMW will need to improve reliability, which has been a 3 Series problem in recent times.
Find out if the BMW is still the benchmark large car in our full 3 Series first drive. Non-members can trial Which? for just £1
