SINCE its launch in 1975, the BMW 3 Series has become one of the best-selling cars of all time.
Six incarnations of the iconic model have seen more than 15million compact executive motors roll off the production line for the German car maker. So does the latest G20 version represent a magnificent seven?
It is certainly the biggest 3 Series yet, with the increased dimensions allowing major improvements to passenger space and refinement.
Life in the cabin – particularly in the back, where the extra leg and headroom is particularly welcome – is vastly improved thanks to a stretched wheelbase, with exterior noise irritants kept firmly at bay, providing a relaxed atmosphere on long journeys.
Three adults can be accommodated easily at the back although the transmission tunnel does use up some of the middle passenger’s legroom. Entry and exit is simpler for the rear passengers now as the door aperture height has also been increased.
Up front, on the M Sport model, figure-hugging Vernasca leather heated sports seats are the order of the day, with powered adjustment allowing the driver to attain the perfect position behind the wheel.
There are plenty of cubby holes and drinks holders, while the boot can swallow 480 litres of luggage.
The interior is high-quality, boasting a ton of technology that is integrated seamlessly into the dashboard design featuring a 10in colour touchscreen and BMW’s new Intelligent Personal Assistant. This allows you to talk with the car to control the stereo system, set the sat nav or alter the temperature.
For dinosaurs like me, the iDrive controller is still there, allowing traditional buttons to be pressed and a rotary dial to be turned or you can use the touchscreen.
The M Sport model also gets BMW’s new Live Cockpit Professional, which includes a 12.3in digital dashboard display and the ability to customise the information shown to your heart’s content.
Other goodies include digital radio as well as BMW’s Connected+, giving access to apps and online services, while Apple CarPlay is standard. There is also Bluetooth for calls and music streaming, along with USB charging points.
Options adding to the cost of the £38,325 model I drove include a £1900 technology package with a natty head-up colour display, enhanced Bluetooth with wireless charging, gesture control and wi-fi hotspot preparation.
The exterior of the G20 is more evolution than revolution, so it is obviously a BMW with trademark LED headlights and the kidney grilles. It looks sleek, with snazzy alloy wheels and a hunkered-down profile that gives a clue to the superb handling and silky ride.
This is a saloon that is a pleasure to drive as it demonstrates the balance of a ballerina with informative steering pointing the way for a lithe 2.0-litre diesel engine that is aided by multi-stage turbocharging and a top-notch eight-speed auto transmission.
The use of lightweight materials helps fuel efficiency, with this oil burner achieving 52.3 to 54.3mpg under the new WLTP testing regime, while emissions are 113g/km.
The 55kg shaved off the weight compared to its predecessor also enables a great performance, with the rear-wheel-driven model sprinting to 62mph from a standing start in 6.8 seconds on its way to 149mph.
It all adds up to the complete package, blending performance with low running costs, top technology, comfort and a dynamic driving experience. So, yes, it is a magnificent seven for BMW.
Factfile:
- Model: BMW 320d M Sport Saloon
- Engine: 2.0-litre diesel
- Power: 190hp
- Top speed: 149mph
- 0-62mph: 6.8 seconds
- Average mpg: 52.3-54.3
- CO2 emissions: 113g/km
- Warranty: Three years/unlimited mileage
- Price: £38,325
