BMW 3 Series Touring 2005 - Present

BMW would normally launch their Touring model as the final model in the range, so it's introduction prior to the coupe and Convertible is an interesting comment on the cars that are currently popular among the buying public. Previous models have suffered criticism for a lack of space in the boot and on the back seats, this area has been addressed but will still fall a little short on the expectations of people looking for traditional estate sized boot. Don't go into a competition with your Volvo owning neighbour to see who can fit the most golf balls in the back because you'll lose. However the traditional strengths of BMW, namely great engines and superb handling are both present and correct.

The 3-Series Touring is fitted with run flat tyres, which gives the sidewalls extra strength, and therefore less room to cushion the car from the road. Inkeeping with the attention to detail that BMW have shown throughout their range the suspension is set up to take the hard tyres in to account and offer a softer suspension set up so that the harder ride doesn't make it's way into the cabin. The interior of the car is nicely finished with supportive comfortable seats. Previous models offered too little legroom in the back and as a means of countering this; the new Touring has a 35mm longer wheelbase. These three and a half centimetres had given a little more room, but as you'd expect, people who were cramped in the back before will still find it hard to stretch out.

The 50/50 weight distribution is faithfully maintained in the expansion to estate form although it does feel a little more tail heavy on the road when compared to the saloon. This has little of no effect on the driving experience in however and the 3 Touring is a pleasure to drive on a twisting, flowing road and perfectly at home on motorways. Advanced traction and stability controls provide ample reassurance for those wary of rear-wheel drive. Audi's quattro equipped cars and the Jag X-Type may have the traction edge in the wet, but otherwise the Bavarian master has the upper hand over it's rivals.

From launch the Touring is offered with either the 2.5 straight-six in the 325i or the 320d with a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder diesel. Both benefit from a six-speed manual gearbox. This should be enough for any buyer, but in autumn 2005 the line-up welcomed the addition of a four-cylinder 320i and six-cylinder 330i and 330d models. These later models are pure indulgence and will require restraint on the part of the driver when driving with any cargo, either living or furniture. A 325d and 335d version were also added in 2006. the 335d is the model to go for if you have deep enough pockets as it offers the best performance and economy, getting from standing to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and top out at 155mph, while still returning 41mpg.

The Touring model is the 3-Series mix of glamour and practicality, it errs on the side of glamour more than a practical work vehicle and offers the trademark BMW great drive every time you take it out.

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