The BMW 3-Series sets the bar in the closely fought compact executive sector. It's our class favourite
For : For: Engaging handling, premium image, low running costs
Against : Against: Firm ride, small cabin, high prices
Winning has become something of a habit for the 3-Series. Over the past five years, the desirable compact executive has been crowned with class honours in four of our five car of the year contests - most recently in 2010. If you look closely, It’s not hard to see why the BMW rules the roost in the company car park.
The premium image, impressive build quality and engaging handling are strong draws, while eco-friendly engineering tweaks seal the deal – what's more the 320d EfficientDynamics emits only 109g/km of co2 and returns 68.9mpg.

STYLING
The BMW 3-Series’s incredible popularity has done little to damage its premium appeal. With a design that has been carefully evolved over decades, the 3-Series design is understated rather than distinctive. However, a choice of saloon, estate, coupe and convertible bodystyles means there’s a model for everyone. Entry-level cars look a little plain, while M Sport versions are spiced-up courtesy of larger alloy wheels, lowered suspension and a subtle bodykit.



INTERIOR
With BMW’s strong reputation for quality it’s no surprise to find the 3-Series cabin feels classy and upmarket. The upright dashboard is beginning to look a little dated, but it’s well laid out and the switchgear operates with oiled precision. Only the range-topping M sport Plus models get standard leather trimmed seats – this luxurious addition is a pricy option on lesser variants. At least air-conditioning, alloy wheels and a multi-function steering wheel feature on all versions in the line-up.

DRIVING AND PERFORMANCE
As with other models in the BMW range the 3-series benefits from sharp driving dynamics. A traditional front engine and rear wheel drive layout serves-up perfectly balanced handling, while the steering its perfectly weighted and full of feedback. The pay off for the car’s agility and sharp responses is a firm ride, with sporty M Sport models being the worst offenders. Cars fitted with the small petrol engine need to be worked hard to keep up with faster traffic, while diesel powered 320d delivers strong punch and remarkable fuel economy. Fire breathing 414bhp M3 will complete the 0 to 60mph sprint in only 4.8 seconds!

MPG AND RUNNING COSTS
With the help of BMW’s efficiency boosting additions the 3-Series manages to be a remarkably cost effective option. Star of the show is the 320d EfficientDynamics, which returns a supermini rivalling 68.9mpg and emits only 109g/km of CO2. However, all the diesel-engined versions are incredibly frugal and cheap to tax – for private buyers and company users alike. Strong residual values make the 3-Series a star performer at trade-in time. The icing of the financial cake is BMW’s great value pre-paid service pack.

PRACTICALITY
Given that the BMW 3-Series is nearly six year old it’s no surprise to find it can’t match the class leaders for cabin space. Occupants in the rear get average leg and headroom, although taller passengers will feel a little cramped. Both the saloon and Touring estates serve-up a useful 460-litres of luggage capacity – the wagon increases the capacity to 1,385-litres with the rear bench folded flat. Convertible models have a decent-sized boot with roof up, but stowing the folding metal hard top reduces the load bay to a miserly 210-litres.

RELIABILITY AND BUILD QUALITY
A five-star EuroNCAP score is impressive for a car that’s been in showrooms in one form or another since 2005. A full complement of six airbags, plus standard ESP and dynamic brake lights – which flash quickly when the ABS is triggered – add to the car’s safety credentials. You’d expect a premium brand car to perform faultlessly on a day-to-day basis – and the 3-Series doesn’t disappoint. A top 26 finish in the 2010 Driver Power survey is strong result.