BMW 3-series – ride and handling
Standard suspension delivers an excellent ride but less chassis poise, while the more focused M Sport chassis can be too stiff
The 3-series has been the default choice for those searching for an involving drive from their compact exec for decades, and with this latest incarnation BMW has managed to retain this position. It’s perhaps not quite as clear cut as it used to be, but despite making strides in comfort and refinement the 3-series is still an engaging car to drive, especially when compared with the majority of the competition.
However, there are many different permutations to consider and which model you choose and how you spec it will have a direct bearing on the way it drives. Entry-level Sport models have the basic chassis set up which features BMW’s lift-related damper technology which is aimed at controlling body movement under acceleration and braking. M Sport models feature the same damper technology but with stiffer settings while the optional adaptive dampers are switchable, offering a supple ride in Comfort mode and a significantly firmer one in Sport.
On the standard Sport suspension, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that the ride quality offered is the best of the bunch, especially on smaller wheels with normal tyres. But push hard and its limitations come to the fore; there’s a fair amount of body roll and the chassis can lose its composure, coming a little unstuck on dips and crests.
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The M Sport feels much tauter than the Sport and exhibits superior body control, cornering with an impressively flat demeanour. Grip is exceptional, both on turn-in and corner exit, but the steering frustrates with its inability to transmit any feel through the thick M Sport steering wheel. It’s precise and well weighted but feels very remote. Ride quality on smooth surfaces is passable but on broken up tarmac it becomes unsettled and a little jiggly, especially at lower speeds.
The best compromise comes at a cost, and that’s with the M Sport equipped with adaptive dampers. The setup is slightly softer than the Sport model in Comfort mode and a modicum firmer than the fixed M Sport dampers in Sport mode. The ride is good, if not quite as exceptional as in the Sport model thanks to larger 19-inch wheels, but the switchable dampers do offer the best compromise between a supple ride and handling prowess.
As you would expect, the range-topping M340i xDrive is the most capable of the bunch, with incredible point-to-point pace. Refinement is impressive overall, but tackle some of Britain's trickier roads and ride can become harsh and fidgety – steering is also severely lacking in feel, which knocks its outright driver appeal. This aside, the M340i is an impressive sports saloon for day-to-day use, and while its xDrive system offers the security you’d expect from four-wheel drive, it’s willing to play too. The balance between slip and traction is beautifully judged, giving you freedom to shift the car’s attitude with the throttle but pulling you straight on exit.
