New BMW 3-series review, test drive

BMW’s brilliant new 3-series has just moved the game forward.

Published on Oct 19, 2012 05:29:00 PM

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The dash of the F30 looks like that of the new 5-series, which in turn looks like the one on the 7-series, and that’s great. BMW has tilted the dash in towards the driver, there are myriad surfaces for that ‘layered’ 3D effect and the 328i’s Sport trim includes a bright red stripe running across from one side to the other.

A widescreen infotainment display sits above the central console, the new iDrive system is even more intuitive and useful, and you can switch from Comfort to Sport in a second by using the ‘Drive Performance Control’ switch. Some buttons and knobs, however, are still too small and there are still a few shiny plastic bits present. Also, the tunnel for the gearbox that sits at the base of the central console is still massive – BMW engineers have pushed the engine and gearbox as far back as possible for that aforementioned perfect weight distribution.

The longer wheelbase, however, means there is much more legroom in the rear of the car, and because you are sat slightly higher, visibility is better as well. In addition, thigh support is fantastic, the backrest is very supportive and, unlike the earlier car, there’s plenty of room for your feet as well. Even more comfortable are the big front seats, which offer tremendous shoulder and lateral support with just the right amount of suppleness. The 3-series finally has four useable bottle-holders up front too, two ahead of the gear lever and two in the big door pockets. And isn’t it
nice to see a real handbrake?