Insurance Group: 29
MPG: 45.6
CO2: 163
0-62 Mph: 7.3 secs
BHP: 204 BHP
Range: 612 miles
PROS: Larger version of the 3 series with the estate shape, giving more space without having to compromise on driving quality and engine performance.
CONS: Similarly to many other 3 series cars, the ride can be quite firm especially at the slower speeds, and there are more competitively priced estate cars on the market.
Although there are plenty of people who would be impressed with the fuel economy of the car, the 325d M Sport also boasts a 0-60mph figure of only 7.2 seconds, and a top speed of a 149mph. This means there is plenty of power for those who plan to use it, and this is effectively transmitted to the wheels for a fun and responsive handling performance. The lowered and firm suspension will not be to everybody's taste, but those opting for the M Sport options will know what they're getting.
The driving position is very good, and the sports front seats add to the driving experience making this version of the 3 series touring to be a really good driver's car. Driving aids like traction control, ABS and EPS help drivers to stay safe on the road, and the rain sensing wipers are also a welcome addition to the overall experience.
The lowered suspension and the larger alloys which comes with the M Sport pack gives this version a particularly low position on the road, making the car look much better than the higher stance. The estate back end is not at all ungainly or ugly, and the car is still an attractive and professional looking business car that has the extra space provided by the Touring option.
One of the biggest disappointments with this car is that leather seats are only an optional extra, and being an option priced at over £2,000 it is not a cheap option either. However, much of the equipment is very good, and the rain sensing wipers are certainly an interesting feature to include as standard on the car.
The addition of the estate to the 3 series makes this an appealing prospect for those who have a family or will need to carry a lot of equipment while they are travelling on business. The fact that this is added at a very small cost to the overall driving experience is a very welcome result, and with the security features available as standard such as alarm and immobiliser, this is a very attractive package. It also boasts a three year warranty and roadside breakdown which will not be used with the high standards of German car manufacturing.
The 3 series has received some very good results in terms of driver and passenger safety, with the Euro NCAP tests giving the car five stars for adults and four for children, but it has been criticised for pedestrian safety. The driving aids that are featured in this model will certainly help the drivers to keep all the wheels on the road as they enjoy the driving experience.
With this particular model retailing at £33,805, this certainly isn't a cheap car to buy, and the fuel performance is not as impressive as some of the other models in the range. An average mpg of 48.7 isn't too bad for an estate car, but it isn't going to set any records either. The insurance costs are also above average, but it does boast a good resale price and holds its value well.
The car performance figures are quite similar to the 320d in the same levels of trim, and it is hard to recommend going for the 325d over that model. The saving of around £2,000 in price could easily be spent upgrading the lower model to include leather seats, or one of the many other attractive optional extras available.
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