Faults:

Nothing so far!

General Comments:

For nine years old, this 3 series feels as good as new. It's a common sight on the road, but look closely at it and it is actually a really nice looking car - very sharp saloon that still closely resembles 3 series of the past, yet very modern.

Inside the car has leather and is very comfortable with all the toys you could want. Very smooth ride, yet the suspension is firm enough for sporty driving.

2.0 diesel with the auto box provides both performance and economy. Feels very powerful and overtaking is fun! But take it easy and you can easily see well over 50 MPG on average. The average 68 MPG claim is a bit unrealistic, but the car is generally economical.

Quite expensive to buy initially but they do return with quality and reliability if looked after. I know I will have this car a long time.

Faults:

Other than servicing and essentials, virtually nothing. The car was purchased by a reputable BMW dealer for used cars and had full history, so I expect nothing less. Brake pads probably need attention at next service. Wear and tear at the mileage.

General Comments:

Finally getting round to buy a car I always wanted, this BMW 320d M Sport in light blue got my attention right away. It is one of the few modern cars that still have an old school handbrake, not those irritating electronic ones you find on most modern cars of this type. You might find this an unusual point, but believe it or not it was an important factor in buying my next car. I just do not like the modern electronic E-brakes, so I was surprised to find they still make the 3 Series with the old lever. I hope BMW never changes this - they are known as drivers cars for a reason!

Speaking of driving, this car is amazing. Compared to my dull (but reliable and decent car) old 2006 Ford Mondeo, it is light years ahead. Yes it is more expensive to buy and run, but it is worth it. The driving position is perfect for me at around average height and weight, controls are laid out logically, apart from the twiddly menu screen, but you could say that about a lot of modern cars. A friend of mine who has a 2005 BMW 7 Series says it has much improved since then however.

M Sport gets leather and all the toys. Would not expect anything less from a modern car. Black in colour. Suits it just fine, though since I was buying buying used, I did not have a choice. I'd prefer the look of beige leather if I am being picky. Interior is spacious. On the outside I love the look of the car, very conservative styling that again, I hope BMW never changes the look of the classic saloon.

Diesel engine with the semi-auto is a belter, fast and you will get 60 MPG. Cannot say fairer than that with about 7 seconds to 60 mph, and around 140 mph top speed. Of course, I do not drive like an idiot, and prefer to cruise around, but when overtaking, there is never a problem. I keep it in drive and rarely have to use sport mode.

Overall this is pretty much the perfect all round car. Expensive to buy initially (even used), and I am not a BMW fanboy, but really like these, and I am aware they are expensive when they do go wrong, but you should not buy such a car and expect to run it on the cheap. I plan to keep it a long time and hopefully if I look after it there will be no problems. Highly recommended if you are after a modern car with all the toys that still appreciates an old school fun driving style. There are still manual versions as well if you do not like the semi-auto.