Category: Compact Executive 
Price Range: £21,475 to £38,250
Superb refinement, superb quality, terrific detail design - now even better to drive
Not much; a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for, and it's a bit cramped too.
If you're happy with a BMW - and plenty are - a sensible and hugely satisfying buy.
The 3-Series is surprisingly competitive in terms of running costs, even compared with a Ford Mondeo, thanks to reasonable servicing costs and low depreciation. Insurance costs are fair for the class, while fuel economy of the 318i and 320d has been boosted for the 2002 model year. The diesels are frugal, especially the 318d, which consistently returns well over 40mpg in demanding driving conditions.
