Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

BMW 3-series – design

Safe rather than experimental styling ensures the 3-series is smart and inoffensive, but perhaps not as seductive as a Giulia

Evo rating
RRP
from £41,310
  • Class-leading dynamics, tech and build quality
  • Lifeless steering; engine range is now more limited

While several recent BMW models have been lambasted for the size of their kidney grilles, there’s a definite case of BMW playing it safe with the 3-series – tampering with its best-selling model clearly being seen as a risk too far. It’s instantly recognisable as a BMW, and update since the G20’s launch have sharpened it up with new grilles and light units. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

Somehow, the 3-series doesn’t look outdated next to the latest C-class and A5, which are considerably newer under the skin. It’s more handsome still in M Sport spec, which brings more angular, aggressive bumpers and bigger wheels without being garish.

The Touring, meanwhile, is almost as sleek, with a cohesive profile and a neat rear-end treatment with a sloped rear window. That rear window can also be opened separately to the tailgate to throw small items in the boot, which is handy.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

£15k off Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio super SUV
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
News

£15k off Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio super SUV

If you have to have an SUV, a Stelvio QV is acceptable. Now it's being heavily discounted.
8 Jul 2025
New cars at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed – all the debuts from Aston to Zenvo
Festival of Speed 2025
News

New cars at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed – all the debuts from Aston to Zenvo

The Goodwood Festival of Speed was spectacular yet again. Here are the highlights from the British motoring event of the year
14 Jul 2025
Ferrari F80 2025 review – near-1200bhp tech tour de force tested on road and track
Ferrari F80 review
Reviews

Ferrari F80 2025 review – near-1200bhp tech tour de force tested on road and track

Maranello’s latest hybrid hypercar and successor to the LaFerrari blends mind-bending capabilities with deeply intuitive character
10 Jul 2025