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3 Series Saloon
A good range of adjustment for both the driver’s seat and steering wheel means people of all shapes and sizes can find a suitable position, but the manual seat mechanism is awkward. The standard dashboard layout features simple stereo and heater controls, while the optional sat-nav brings BMW's iDrive central controller.
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Running Costs
The 3 Series has a higher starting price than the rival Audi and is similarly priced to the equivalent Mercedes. It's hugely desirable, however, so holds its value extremely well. The 2.0 diesel’s low running costs will make it the most popular choice - it returns nearly 60mpg and falls into the lowly 18% bracket for company car tax.
3 Series Coupe
A huge range of adjustment for the seat and steering wheel makes it easy for all drivers to make themselves comfortable, while the driving position is excellent. As with the 3 Series saloon, the dash is simple and clearly laid out, but if you go for the optional satellite-navigation system, you have to put up with BMW's fiddly iDrive controller.
Running Costs
The 3 Series Coupe won't cost much more to run than the saloon, which means sensible running costs across the board. Even the 335i returns nearly 30mpg and falls three categories short of the maximum company car tax banding, while the diesels are impressively clean and frugal. We expect residual values will be excellent, too.
3 Series
A good range of adjustment of both the driver’s seat and steering wheel means people of all shapes and sizes can find a suitable position, but the manual mechanism is awkward. The standard dash layout features simple stereo and heater controls, while the optional sat-nav has BMW's iDrive system. This is now more user-friendly because it features shortcut buttons.
Running Costs
The 3 Series has a higher starting price than its rival Audi and Jaguar models. It’s hugely desirable, however, so it holds its value extremely well. The 2.0 diesel’s low running costs will make it the most popular choice - it returns nearly 60mpg and falls into the lowly 18% bracket for company car tax.
3 Series Convertible
The folding metal roof does wonders for visibility in the 3 Series convertible. Compared with a traditional cloth roof you can see more of what's behind. It's hard to fault the adjustability of the driving position or the control layout, too. However, iDrive - BMW's awkward central controller is an unwelcome extra if you choose the sat-nav option.
Running Costs
Prices aren't cheap and you won't get much of a discount, even if you buy online. However, strong residuals mean you'll get plenty back when you sell. Running costs are competitive, too. The engines are frugal despite their power, and low emissions keep company car tax bills down.