BMW 3 Series 2024 review
Saloon Petrol
Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The BMW 3 Series sets the standard that every compact executive saloon is judged against, and the 2024 version defends that crown. The 320i combines a refined 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with beautifully balanced rear-wheel drive, while the interior pairs fine materials with BMW's modern curved iDrive display.
UK price from: £38,995
Specifications
| Engine | 2.0L TwinPower turbo petrol |
| Power | 184 hp |
| 0-62 mph | 7.4 seconds |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Fuel economy | 42.8 mpg (combined) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Seats | 5 |
| Boot space | 480 litres |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
Features
- 2.0L TwinPower turbo petrol producing 184 hp
- 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox
- Curved display running iDrive 8
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Full LED headlights
- Driving Assistant safety pack
- 17-inch light-alloy wheels
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £85 | OEM |
| Oil filter | £18 | |
| Cabin/pollen filter | £25 | |
| Spark plugs (set of 4) | £48 | |
| 12V AGM battery | £180 | |
| Front wiper blades (pair) | £35 | Aero blades |
Pros
- Superb driving manners lead the class
- Upmarket cabin with solid build quality
- Desirable badge protects resale prices
- Respectable economy for a premium saloon
Cons
- Costly options inflate the price quickly
- Middle rear seat is a squeeze
- Run-flat tyres give a firm ride
- Maintenance bills exceed mainstream brands
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW 3 Series reliable?
The G20 3 Series scores above average for reliability in owner surveys. The B48 2.0 petrol engine is well proven — just keep up with scheduled servicing.
What is the real-world mpg of the 320i?
Expect 36–42 mpg in mixed driving. Motorway cruising at 70 mph will beat the official 42.8 mpg figure.
Should I buy the 320i or 320d?
The 320d suits high-mileage drivers with better economy and torque. For under 12,000 miles a year, the 320i petrol is cheaper to buy and simpler to own.
