04 Jul 05
The 325i Touring is the one for driving enthusiasts, however, at least until the 3.0-litre models are launched; in this model, the straight-six Valvetronic engine delivers 218bhp and 184lb ft, giving 0-60mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 151mph. Like the 320d, it comes with six-speed manual transmission as standard (six-speed auto optional), and prices start from £26,340. Its main selling point, though, is the fantastic noise it makes under acceleration - building up from a low grumble to a full-on howl as the revs rise, it manages to pack in a fair amount of sports car feedback into its reasonably practical bodyshell. As with the more real-life 320d, there's little perceptible difference in driving dynamics to that of the saloon versions, despite the differences in body rigidity from the one-box through cabin and different centre of gravity; the suspension has been specifically modified, and it also incorporates electronic trailer stabilising control for extra safety when towing.
Specification for the UK includes, in ES versions, six airbags, air conditioning, a CD player, front fog lamps, four electric windows, rear seat ISOFIX child seat mounting points, dynamic stability control (and DSC+ in six-cylinder versions, with Brake Standby, Rain Brake Support, Hill Start Assist, Fading Compensation and Soft Stop, all self-explanatory aids), plus 16-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tyres, freeing up the spare wheel well for the underfloor storage compartment. SE models come with different alloy wheel designs, 17-inch alloys on six-cylinder models, automatic air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, rear parking sensors and extra interior lighting. At £25,570, a 320d SE Touring is not exactly cheap, but it's close to a similarly-equipped 155bhp Ford Mondeo 2.2 TDCi estate, which puts the value into some perspective.
The still-excellent Mondeo might not have the same kudos, but it's not exactly slow or sluggish, and it's far, far roomier, both for passengers and luggage. Estates like the Touring, though, are just as much about prestige; effectively, they're hatchbacks for people that couldn't otherwise bring themselves to be seen in a common five-door but who can't live with a separate boot. Upsize, even if it means going for a secondhand car (my friend has just bought a Volvo 850), buy an MPV or swallow snobbery if you have to have more carrying capacity. But as smart compact executive-sector wagons go, the 3-Series is a better compromise than most, and could meet the needs of a small family quite adequately - if not the demands of owners of large musical instruments or TV time-travellers.
