19 Jan 07
It was hard to see how BMW could better the E46, but the E90 hasn't disappointed. It remains a class-leader with its only real drawback being that it's selling so well that it has become the default-option company car, with a subsequently less upmarket image than it used to have.
The E90 range isn't complete yet. This time around, there's going to be a coupe-cabriolet with a metal folding roof in place of the canvas-topped Convertible, which goes on sale this spring (2007). This year will also bring the unveiling of the new-generation M3. Coupe models went on sale in late-2006, joining the saloon and Touring. However, now that BMW offers its 1-Series hatchback as an entry-point into its line-up, a 3-Series Compact is not expected.
The 3-Series has come a long way since the early small saloons; now bigger, more luxurious, far more powerful and much safer for its occupants if all goes horribly wrong, it's not the lightweight it used to be, but it remains one of the most rewarding cars of its type to drive and true to the original blueprint.
Four-door saloon; Touring estate; Coupe; Coupe-Convertible follows in early 2007.
All the diesels are excellent; 320i a good balance between performance and economy; 318i ES a good entry-level sporty specification.
330i is a great drive but the 330d just makes far more sense. Active Steering - variable-assistance and variable-ratio - is an unpopular option.
No real problems reported as yet; only minor electronic/electrical niggles such as dodgy tyre pressure monitoring. It goes without saying that any BMW this new should have all the correct paperwork and main-dealer stamps in its service book.
Earliest 318i saloons from £14,000; diesels from £16,000; Touring estates from £17,000. Some high-spec ex-demo cars around at BMW dealers.
