Faults:

The passenger side cup holder broke.

The holders for the window shades broke off when my younger brother messed with it.

General Comments:

I had to replace the passenger side taillight recently after sliding out on a 90 degree turn on a dirt road. Just for the record, that turn was the only piece of the road with gravel on it.

This car handles like a dream and accelerates hard, especially with the manual engaged. The stock sound is more than adequate for the average person.

My favorite hing to do before a test day is to role down the windows and sun roof, switch into manual, and tear up the road.

Faults:

Secondary air pump seized after 5 months. The secondary air pump is an auxiliary emissions control device that comes on for a couple of minutes after the car has just been started to lower emissions. Dealer stated it was a common occurrence in Canadian 5-series autos. Supposedly due to moisture seeping into pump leading to seizing of the fan motor. This pump is located behind the front bumper on the right side of the car. The part was not in stock therefore it was replaced on a second visit (two weeks later).

On a very cold day (-25 degrees Celsius), the CD changer cut out and would not start working again until the ambient temperature was higher (CD changer is located in the trunk). (minor issue and manual does mention a limited range of temperature for operation of the CD changer (-15 to 60 degrees Celsius), has not recurred now that I don't use the CD changer if the temperature is below -10 degrees Celsius.

Occasional squeaks of the driver door seals when going over bumps, but supposedly can be remedied by dealer with replacement seals. I will be having this looked into with the next servicing.

General Comments:

Overall, this car has outstanding driving dynamics especially with the M-Sport package. The throttle response, steering feel and response and linear powerful braking allows for an unparalleled driving experience.

Smooth beautiful sounding in-line six cylinder engine which delivers power beyond what its rated horsepower would suggest with good mileage too. Highway range for a tank of gas (70L) is up to 800km.

Seats both front and back are incredible in support and comfort. One of the most comfortable rear middle seats out of the many cars I have tested (better than the new 5-series too).

Faults:

Speedometer inaccurate - Reads 5 miles/hr too high and dealer can't fix.

Sometimes car won't start then after turning key off and on again starts fine. Dealer says can't find anything wrong.

General Comments:

This car has been the best handling car I have ever owned, even better than my Corvette.

Stops on a dime and acceleration is fantastic.

Outstanding quality control as should be expected from BMW.

Dealer has been a disappointment though. Can't seem to fix anything. Lucky not much to fix.

If you want a car that holds four comfortably, but handles like the best sports cars this is it.

Faults:

Nothing so far, but it's still too early to tell!

General Comments:

This is an excellent car!

Considering the price you pay, you get a great overall package. While the car only has 184 horsepower, it feels like it has 200! The lack of low end torque can be a problem while cruising around town, however. In addition, I had to wait an extremely long time, at least three months, for my car to arrive. This was made up for by the kindness I received at the dealership.

All and all, this car seriously merits your consideration.