General Comments:
The diesel engine is a delight and sounds more like a petrol.
I am getting approximately 45 mpg.
Passenger space is relatively limited and the ride choppy over some surfaces.
Boot space is pathetic and drop down rear seats aren't standard. They are a 3250 option. Very mean.
So too is the extra £95 charged for colour coded door handles. Nothing comes cheap with a BMW.
The standard interior on the SE model is still very functional and rather gloomy.
The trip computer is nice touch and provides lots of entertainment.
I wish the same could be said for the climate control which takes too long to clear mist from the windows. Why can't a car this price have an electrically heated front windscreen which comes as standard on a Mondeo!
11th Jan 2003, 08:22
I have one of these, and I get 45mpg round town and 55-58 on a run.
Boot and passenger space are as good as an A4 or C-class in my opinion. If you need space for the family, get a 5-Series.
I agree that BMW are not cheap - but I think they are good value for money when you consider all the little extras they have that Ford/Vauxhall/Puggy don't give you.
I find that the climate control clears the windows fine. It's just that when you switch it off they mist up badly within seconds. Ford's QuickClear windscreens are good at keeping the mist at bay - it's just a pity that you cannot see through the glass for all of the heating elements!
Overall, the 320d is an absolute corker - far better than any of it's competitors. Nothing else will give you the same performance and economy in the same package at any price level. If you're in the market for a motor like this - just go and buy one - you won't regret it.