BMW has, over the years, managed to make the premium compact saloon segment synonymous with the 3-Series, which in itself is quite an achievement but, at the same time, puts pressure each time it launches a new version as expectations are high.
The previous generation had dropped the ball somewhat in the sporty stakes, but the all-new one has upped its game considerably.
In 330i guise, it is powered by a 248 HP turbocharged four-cylinder that’s mated to an eight-speed auto gearbox. In spite of the latter necessitating a learning curve in its operation, Consumer Reports came away impressed by the new 3-Series’ attributes.
The 330i is more of a driver’s car than its direct competitors, the Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4, which is what BMW is supposed to be after all. It does come at a price, though, that’s higher than that of its rivals with a few options thrown in – which, along with the fact that its ride is not as smooth as the other two might, or might not, put some buyers off…