BMW 3 Series 320d EfficientDynamics 4dr Car Review - March 2012

The 320d handles very well thanks to its brilliant chassis and the steering is crisp and precise. The 320d's engine is powerful, smooth and quiet, with the cabin well insulated from outside sounds. Like all 3 Series, the suspension is a little firm although not uncomfortably so.

The 320d Efficient Dynamics has a 163 bhp engine delivering 280 lb-ft of torque at 1750-2750 rpm. This helps the car reach 0-62 mph in just 8.0 seconds whilst a top speed of 143 mph is offered.

The 320d is a good looking car and comes with a good amount of kit. Power steering, stability control, cruise control, climate control, rear parking sensors, alloy wheels, MP3 connectivity, Bluetooth and stereo are all fitted as standard, with optional extras including leather seats for £1,265 and satellite navigation for £1,550.

The ‘Efficient Dynamics’ technology that keeps the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions low includes an automatic stop-start system, brake energy regeneration, on-demand control of engine ancillary components and tyres with less rolling resistance along with improved aerodynamics.

BMW produce very reliable cars indeed and perform consistently well in the J D Power survey. The 320d should prove to be a reliable car.

Safety is top rate too with standard equipment including six airbags, dynamic stability control inclusive of anti-lock braking system (ABS), cornering brake control, dynamic brake control and dynamic traction control.

The 320d has loads of room in the front and back, with plenty of leg room on offer and this makes it both pracitcal and comfortable. The boot is sizeable too with 460 litres of storage space on offer when the seats are up. The option to take down the split-folding rear seats to extend the space is also available.

Additional safety systems can be added through the Active Security Package which offers lane change and lane departure systems to help drivers keep on track. Regardless of whether this is added or not the car will be protected from theft due to an alarm which is fitted as standard.

This Efficient Dynamics model is unbeatable engine in terms of value for money. The 320d offers both performance and incredibly low CO2 emissions, making it a great option. The fuel economy is great and even as a private buyer, this saloon will not disappoint although the limited practicality and versatility could be a slight prboblem for families.

Costing £28,080 and offering combined fuel economy of 68.9 mpg and CO2 emissions of 109 g/km this model is very affordable for a BMW and that makes it a great option.