Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW 3-series review - Still the best compact executive car? - Design

The latest generation of 3-series is the most comfortable yet, but some of its sporting character has been lost

Evo rating
RRP
from £25,580
  • Usual BMW blend of great chassis and high build quality
  • GT is ugly and dull to drive, xDrive models detract from the fun

Design

The BMW kidney grilles on the new 3-series are mounted low and give the 3-series an aggressive look. It’s easily as handsome and appealing as its supposedly more rakish 4-series siblings. A mild facelift in 2015 freshened up the shape, which had been on sale since 2012, with more defined LED headlamps.

Advertisement - Article continues below

As much as we like the look of the saloon, it’s the Touring that we think is the most handsome of the range. Even though its actually heavier, the proportions of the estate model make it look lighter and almost ready to pounce.

Our least favourite, both in terms of looks and the way it drives, is the hunch-backed GT.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Morgan’s first coupe in over a decade is coming but it’s going to be very rare, and expensive
Morgan coupe coachbuild teaser
News

Morgan’s first coupe in over a decade is coming but it’s going to be very rare, and expensive

Morgan is teasing its next coachbuilds and they’re going to have fixed-roof coupes
4 Jun 2026
How to rediscover the love for cars? Get out there and buy an affordable classic
Subaru Impreza RB5
Opinion

How to rediscover the love for cars? Get out there and buy an affordable classic

It took our Eras tests to top up Richard Meaden’s love for cars. It also stoked the urge to buy an S1 Elise
5 Jun 2026
Mazda continues testing of carbon capture system – a different way to save internal combustion
Mazda carbon capture
News

Mazda continues testing of carbon capture system – a different way to save internal combustion

Mazda’s continued testing of its new emissions reduction system. It’s showing promising results
9 Jun 2026