Model tested: BMW 320d M Sport Saloon
Price: £27,275
Date Tested:January 2007
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 84%
The BMW 3-series has established itself as the best seller in the compact executive class; we drove the M Sport diesel saloon model to find out why.

1. Looks
This is a strikingly handsome car that hits the right balance between bland and over-fussy, with lines that give a real sense of movement. Instantly recognisable signature design features include the twin headlights, rear hockey-stick shaped light clusters and shark's fin aerial.
9/10

2. Looks inside
The M Sport features a very cool black headlining, leather upholstery (a £995 extra) and M Sport branding. Simple and elegant, the interior exudes style; even the cupholders are classy.
9/10

3. Practicality
Space for occupants and luggage is good; the boot holds 460 litres. We drove with five in the car and found it more than adequate, while there are discreet cupholders front and back.
9/10

4. Ride and Handling
This is a driver's car with excellent handling and responsiveness to give a great driver experience. The ride can be unforgiving though; there were a few complaints from rear seat passengers.
8/10

5. Performance
The four-cylinder 163bhp 320d M Sport can cover 0-62mph in just 8.3 seconds and it tops out at 140mph. It's also a very involving car to drive, although cruise control is fitted as standard.
8/10

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6. Running Costs
The 320d averages nearly 50mpg, has group 14 insurance, holds its value and costs £135 a year to tax. Also, buyers can choose between three-year/36,000-mile or five-year/60,000-mile service options.
9/10

7. Reliability
As a fairly new model, it's hard to comment on 3-Series reliability, but BMW has a reputation for producing reliable cars and is ranked eighth in our Reliability Index.
8/10

8. Safety
Dynamic Stability Control (ESP) and six airbags are standard, while the run-flat tyres enable you to travel up to 150 miles at 50mph after a puncture. The 3-Series carries a five-star EuroNCAP rating.
8/10

9. Equipment
Air conditioning, CD player, foglights, onboard control, keyless entry and Start/Stop button control all come as standard.
8/10

10. X-Factor
The 3-Series is the vehicle that many buyers aspire to; it's easy to see why, with a package that involves great driving, performance, economy, safety and practicality.
8/10