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 Midsummer Coupé is its first fixed-roof hardtop since the Aero
Morgan Midsummer Coupé front
News

Morgan's Midsummer Coupé is its first fixed-roof hardtop since the Aero

Morgan’s returning to the fixed-roof coupe game, albeit on a limited-run basis for now
24 Jun 2026
McLaren W1 review – the Ferrari F80's wild, 1258bhp nemesis
McLaren W1
In-depth reviews

McLaren W1 review – the Ferrari F80's wild, 1258bhp nemesis

The P1’s successor has arrived, with 1258bhp and surprising manners
29 Jun 2026
Polestar cars banned from sale in the US. Will Lotus be next?
Polestar 5 side
News

Polestar cars banned from sale in the US. Will Lotus be next?

The United States of America has shut the door on Polestar, the Department of Commerce removing the company’s authorisation to sell cars from the 2027…
26 Jun 2026