The Mega Car Review Podcast
Choosing a car? We review all the top selling (and the not so top selling) cars, from the popular to the supercar and also discuss how much they cost and all the facts you need to know about comparable cars, running costs, insurance and much more.
Your hosts, Marv and Claudia will talk you through the types of each make and model, discuss the best features, engine types, running costs and highlight the nest and worst of each.
At the end of each episode they will also identify comparable cars and discuss how many are for sale and the prices you are likely to pay.
The Mega Car Review Podcast
The BMW's Beloved 3 Series - helping you buy the right 3 Series for you.
Discover the secrets behind the legendary BMW 3 Series—a car that has redefined the standards of performance and luxury since its 1975 debut. What makes this model a perennial favorite among car enthusiasts and commuters alike? Promise yourself a rewarding listening experience as we unravel the allure of both the classic saloon and the versatile touring models. We spotlight the eco-friendly 330e plug-in hybrid, a perfect harmony of efficiency and elegance for the environmentally conscious driver, and the exhilarating M340i designed to satisfy your need for speed with its exceptional power and handling.
Journey through the generations of the 3 Series, from the E46's charm tempered by rust concerns to the E90's strong petrol engines and diesel timing chain issues. We'll discuss the F30's blend of tech innovation with its quirky electronic handbrake. Despite these quirks, the BMW 3 Series remains a celebrated masterpiece for its precise balance and engaging driving experience. Whether you're considering a pre-owned model or the latest release, we'll provide insights into what features you can expect across different budgets. Join us as we celebrate the heritage of this automotive icon that continues to make every drive a joyous adventure, ideal for both daily commutes and epic road trips.
Welcome to the Mega Car Review Podcast from Confound Good, your go-to show for everything cars, Whether you're a gearhead or just shopping for your next set of wheels. Every week, your hosts, Marv and Claudia, dive into the latest automotive trends, give hands-on reviews and share the insights you need to make the smart decisions in the world of cars From the hottest models to market secrets. Marv and Claudia have you covered. Get ready for expert opinions, lively debates and all the details you won't hear anywhere else. Now let's join Marv and Claudia for another episode of the Mega Car Review Podcast.
Speaker 2:All right, let's dive into this legendary BMW 3 Series. Yeah, it sounds like you're about ready to take the plunge on one of these, and we're here to make sure you got all the info.
Speaker 3:Absolutely a classic for a reason.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:That kind of rare breed that you get the performance and the luxury all kind of wrapped up in one.
Speaker 2:We're talking about a car that's been around since 1975, almost 50 years on the road. What made that first 3 Series such a game changer and why is that important today?
Speaker 3:I think if you think back to the 70s cars, yeah. Weren't exactly known for their nimble handling, or driver engagement.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:But the 3 Series kind of changed that. Okay, it was a breath of changed that.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:It was a breath of fresh air, offered that sharp, precise steering.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:And a level of feedback that made drivers feel connected to the road and I think that focus on the driving experience, on making a car that's fun to drive.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:Has been a core part of its DNA ever since.
Speaker 2:It's not just a car, it's a legacy.
Speaker 1:Mm-hmm.
Speaker 2:But heritage alone doesn't cut it, especially in this world of luxury cars.
Speaker 1:For sure.
Speaker 2:So what does the 3 Series offer today? Right To hold its own against those rivals like the Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class.
Speaker 3:Yeah, I mean. Evolution is key, and BMW has never been content to rest on its laurels. The 3 Series has always been a showcase for their latest tech, whether it's cutting edge engine design, advanced safety features or even just those little driver-focused touches that make a difference.
Speaker 2:So it's a car that refuses to grow old.
Speaker 3:That's it, yeah.
Speaker 2:Our listener has been doing their homework because they specifically mention the saloon and touring models, right? What are the big differences there? That someone should keep in mind if they're weighing those options.
Speaker 3:So it boils down to practicality versus panache. Okay, so the saloon, your classic four-door sedan that's ideal for people who are prioritizing those sleek aesthetics.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:Don't necessarily need a ton of cargo space.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Perfect for like navigating a city. Sure, but maybe not if you're hauling a family's worth of luggage.
Speaker 2:Makes sense. So for someone who needs that space or likes that sporty wagon look, the touring is the way to go.
Speaker 3:The touring is going to give you that extra practicality, okay, but still keeping that core driving experience.
Speaker 2:Gotcha.
Speaker 3:And I think the key thing is, whether you go saloon or touring, you're getting that same BMW driving experience, that same attention to detail.
Speaker 2:It's about tailoring it to you, then?
Speaker 3:Exactly.
Speaker 2:Now we know our listeners eco-conscious, but they don't want to sacrifice on performance. And we've seen the 330e plug-in hybrid mentioned. Yeah, tell us a little more about that.
Speaker 3:The 330e brilliant bit of engineering.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Combines that punchy petrol engine with an electric motor, so you get the best of both worlds.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:What's remarkable is its electric range. Okay, you can potentially do your commute without using a drop of fuel. That's what I call having your cake and eating it too, right.
Speaker 2:But let's be real. Some people buy a BMW for that. Pure performance, of course, yeah. And speaking of pure performance, I think we need to talk about the M340i.
Speaker 3:Oh yes, the M340i. Now, this is a different beast altogether. We're talking about a three liter turbocharged engine that churns out 382 horsepower 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds it's quick.
Speaker 2:Wow, this thing is practically begging to be let loose on the Autobahn. Yeah so it sounds like the M340i is for those drivers who just want that visceral throat.
Speaker 3:It's not just about straight line speed either.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:This car handles.
Speaker 1:That's right.
Speaker 3:So it comes standard with xDrive, bmw's all-wheel drive system. So you've got that grip and control even when you're pushing it. Sport tuned suspension brakes You've got a recipe for driving excitement.
Speaker 2:I'm officially drooling over here. But, let's talk brass tacks. All this performance and luxury can't come cheap. Is a 3 Series attainable for like the average person out there, or are we talking some serious?
Speaker 3:I don't know. Yeah, automotive aspirations.
Speaker 2:So the good news is that the three series offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to budget.
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:It all depends if you're set on new or if you want to explore the pre-owned market.
Speaker 3:Let's break it down for our listeners out there If they're looking at used models. Walk us through what they can expect at those different price points.
Speaker 2:So for those on a tighter budget, you can actually find well-maintained 3 Series models from the early 2000s.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:For a steal like 3,000 to 7,000 pounds. Wow. Now, those older models might not have all the bells and whistles of their newer counterparts, but you still get that classic BMW driving experience and for the price, incredible value.
Speaker 3:So that's like a more vintage ride for the discerning driver out there.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 3:What about someone who wants something a little more modern?
Speaker 2:Maybe a few more creature comforts.
Speaker 3:So if you're looking for more up-to-date tech, advanced safety features, better fuel economy, you're going to want to set your sights on that 2015 to 2019 model year range. Okay, you will pay a bit more, of course, right? We're talking 15,000 to 25,000 pounds, Okay, depending on model and condition.
Speaker 2:Still significantly less than a brand new one. Oh yeah, but for those who crave that new car smell.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:And want the latest and greatest tech.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:What are we looking at investment wise for a 3 Series?
Speaker 3:Now we're talking a significant investment.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:The latest generation, those 2020 and onward models, are going to set you back anywhere from 25,000 to 40,000 pounds Okay. Anywhere from 25,000 to 40,000 pounds, okay. Especially if you're looking at those higher spec trims Right, hybrid powertrains or, of course, the performance-oriented M340i.
Speaker 2:So a pretty penny yeah For the privilege of owning the latest and greatest.
Speaker 1:It is.
Speaker 2:Buying a car is only half the battle. Exactly what about the ongoing costs of ownership?
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:We're talking about a premium car here yeah, about the ongoing costs of ownership right, we're talking about a premium car here yeah, what's the real deal when it comes to keeping?
Speaker 3:a three series on the road and running smoothly this is where the true cost of ownership comes into play. Okay, and it's something a lot of first-time buyers don't always fully consider yeah but it's nothing to be intimidated by, right with a little planning so let's break it down for our listener, sure.
Speaker 2:What are those factors they need to be intimidated by? Right, with a little planning? So let's break it down for our listener, sure. What are those factors they need to be keeping in mind beyond just that initial price tag?
Speaker 3:So, first and foremost, you've got your insurance Right Now. This is where it gets interesting. The BMW 3 Series occupies a surprisingly wide range of insurance groups, From a respectable 20 to I'm going to say it to say a heart stopping 42.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow OK.
Speaker 3:And this translates to how much you'll be paying annually to insure it.
Speaker 2:For those unfamiliar with these insurance groups. What does that mean for UK drivers?
Speaker 3:Yeah, Essentially each car is assigned to an insurance group.
Speaker 1:OK.
Speaker 3:And that's based on factors like its value, repair costs, performance and its safety features.
Speaker 2:Gotcha.
Speaker 3:And lower insurance groups obviously mean lower premiums. Right, as you climb higher, those premiums start to climb as well.
Speaker 2:So choose your engine wisely if you're trying to keep those costs down.
Speaker 3:Exactly. If you go for a 318i or 320d, you'll enjoy those lower insurance groups, right. But if you have your heart set on that M340i, yeah, be prepared for those higher premiums.
Speaker 2:It's all part of owning that performance machine. Speed comes at a price. We've always said that that's it. Now what about fuel efficiency?
Speaker 3:OK.
Speaker 2:Are we talking about a gas guzzler here?
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:Or does the 3 Series have some tricks up its sleeve?
Speaker 3:So the beauty of the 3 Series is the variety. Okay, you can find an engine to suit any driving style and budget. Right, if you're looking to maximize fuel efficiency.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:The diesel models are the way to go. Okay, especially the 320 with its efficient two liter diesel engine. Right, we're talking an impressive 55 to 60 miles per gallon.
Speaker 2:Not bad at all.
Speaker 3:In combined driving conditions.
Speaker 2:But what about those of us out there who prefer that petrol engine Right? Are we doomed to just constantly be at the petrol station?
Speaker 3:Not at all. Yeah, you know, while the petrol options might not quite match the diesel's frugality, yeah. There's certainly no gas guzzlers.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Take the 330i, for instance.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Powered by a punchy yet refined, two liter turbocharged engine.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:The B48, for those who like to get technical Right, delivers a very respectable 35 to 40 miles per gallon.
Speaker 2:That's pretty good for a car that can still move when it needs to.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:And, of course, we can't forget that 330e plug-in hybrid.
Speaker 3:Oh, the 330e throws a real wrench in the fuel efficiency game.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Officially, it boasts an incredible 150 miles per gallon. Okay, now, that figure does rely on maximizing that electric motors range.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 3:But even in real world driving you will see a significant reduction in your fuel costs.
Speaker 2:So you get to save the planet and enjoy that classic BMW driving experience. But let's be honest. Luxury cars, hefty repair bills Sure. What's the deal with servicing costs on the 3 Series? Yeah, should our listener be bracing for impact here?
Speaker 3:Let's be upfront BMWs aren't known for being the cheapest cars to maintain Okay, they're premium machines.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:And maintaining that level of engineering and performance does come at a cost.
Speaker 2:No sugarcoating here.
Speaker 3:No.
Speaker 2:Give us the numbers. What are we talking about, for? Like regular maintenance.
Speaker 3:So for a standard annual service, you're looking at somewhere between 250 and 500 pounds. Okay, now, that can vary depending on the model year, right the engine you choose. Okay, now, that can vary depending on the model year, right the engine you choose. Okay, some are more complex and therefore pricier to service, right, and whether any unexpected issues arise, of course, Sure.
Speaker 2:So not exactly pocket change, no, but manageable for someone who's prioritizing keeping their 3 Series in shape.
Speaker 3:Absolutely.
Speaker 2:Anything else to keep in mind there?
Speaker 3:Don't forget about road tax.
Speaker 2:Oh, right yeah.
Speaker 3:In the UK, this is an annual tax based on your car's CO2 emissions. Right Now, older diesel models especially those pre-2015, could be hit with a higher road tax due to stricter emission standards.
Speaker 2:So those older diesels, while tempting on the used market, they could end up costing you more down the line, potentially, yeah.
Speaker 3:But the 330e plug-in hybrid with its low emissions often enjoys a much lower road tax rate.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Even being exempt in some cases.
Speaker 2:There's a little poke for going green.
Speaker 3:Absolutely.
Speaker 2:All right. So we've talked about the financial side of things, yeah, but no conversation about the 3 Series would be complete Without talking about some of those potential problem areas.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Every car has its quirks.
Speaker 3:Of course yeah.
Speaker 2:So what should our listener be aware of when they're out there shopping looking at these used models?
Speaker 3:So you're right, no such thing as a perfect car Right, but being aware of potential issues is the best way to protect yourself.
Speaker 2:Sure.
Speaker 3:For example, the E46 generation, built from 1998 to 2006, is known to be susceptible to rust.
Speaker 2:Rust. I thought modern cars had banished rust to the history books.
Speaker 3:Well, older models, especially those that haven't been meticulously cared for, can fall victim.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:And it's particularly important to inspect the E46's wheel arches sills and underbody Gotcha. For any telltale signs of corrosion.
Speaker 2:So a keen eye, maybe a magnet, essential tools for anybody shopping for an E46. For sure Any other common issues with that generation.
Speaker 3:So the E46, while generally reliable, did have a weak point the rear subframe. Okay, there were instances of the subframe developing cracks which, if left unchecked, could lead to some serious handling problems.
Speaker 2:That's not something you want to mess around with. Not at all. What about the E90 generation, those built from 2005 to 2013. Any red flags there?
Speaker 3:The E90 generation, particularly those with the earlier N47 diesel engine. Okay had a bit of a reputation for timing chain issues.
Speaker 2:Timing chain. Those sound pretty serious.
Speaker 3:They can be.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Essentially, the timing chain is the heart of the engine.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:And it would sometimes stretch prematurely Right or, in some cases, even snap, leading to catastrophic engine damage.
Speaker 2:So definitely something you want to factor into your decision there. For sure, if you're looking at a diesel E90,. What about their petrol counterparts?
Speaker 3:So the petrol engines in the E90 were generally very robust.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:However, the high-pressure fuel pump, the HPFP, responsible for delivering fuel to the engine, was known to fail prematurely in some cases.
Speaker 2:So a potential point of failure. It is, but manageable, if you're aware of it Exactly.
Speaker 3:If you know what to look for, you can spot the signs Okay.
Speaker 2:Yeah. What about the F30 generation Right Built from 2012 to 2019.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Those are becoming increasingly popular on the used market.
Speaker 3:They are.
Speaker 2:They're great cars, so the F30 was a significant step forward in terms of its technology and refinement.
Speaker 3:But like any car, it has its quirks. Sure, some owners reported issues with the electronic handbrake.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Which could sometimes act up.
Speaker 2:Nothing like a temperamental handbrake to spice up your day. Right, yeah, exactly yeah.
Speaker 3:It's worth getting that checked out before you buy, just in case.
Speaker 2:Yeah, for sure.
Speaker 3:Also for those interested in the F30-335i. The N55 engine, while a gem overall, did have some cases of valve cover and oil filter housing gasket leaks.
Speaker 2:So those potential leaks, something to look out for.
Speaker 3:Absolutely, they're not uncommon.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:And while they might start as minor annoyances, they can lead to more significant problems if left unattended Gotcha. A competent mechanic can easily spot these issues during a pre-purchase inspection.
Speaker 2:Solid advice, thank you. Now let's shift gears a bit. Let's talk about the driving experience here, right? What makes the 3 Series stand out in a world of SUVs and electric cars?
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:What is it about this car that makes it so special to drive?
Speaker 3:So the 3 Series has always been about that connection between car and driver. Okay, it's a car that seems to shrink around you, right, responding to your every input. Yeah, with precision and poise, gotcha. And it starts with the car's near perfect weight distribution.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:You see BMW engineers obsess over this.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:And it's what gives the 3 Series that planted, balanced feel.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:Whether you're navigating a corner at speed or just cruising down the motorway.
Speaker 2:So it's all about balance.
Speaker 3:It is yeah.
Speaker 2:What else contributes to that?
Speaker 3:Well, you can't talk about BMW without mentioning the engines, right, you know, they've always had a knack for extracting power.
Speaker 2:Yeah, and responsiveness yeah.
Speaker 3:From their engines. Ok, and the 3 Series really showcases that expertise beautifully.
Speaker 2:Music to any driving enthusiasts ears out there. So we've got the balance, we've got the engine prowess. What else completes that picture?
Speaker 3:The steering. Bmws are renowned for their communicative steering feel You're not just turning a wheel, you're feeling the road, sensing the grip available, understanding exactly what the car is doing beneath you.
Speaker 2:Gotcha.
Speaker 3:And it's that level of feedback.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:And precision.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:That makes it so rewarding.
Speaker 2:It sounds like you're describing a dance between a driver and machine, but let's get real for a second.
Speaker 3:Sure.
Speaker 2:All this talk of driving dynamics.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Sounds great in theory.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:But does it translate to everyday driving?
Speaker 3:And that's the beauty of the 3 Series is it's incredibly versatile.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:It can transform from a comfortable cruiser to a corner carving machine at a moment's notice.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:And you don't have to be a professional driver to appreciate it.
Speaker 2:So whether you're in rush hour traffic.
Speaker 3:Exactly.
Speaker 2:Or tackling some back roads.
Speaker 3:Oh sure.
Speaker 2:The 3 Series is up for it.
Speaker 3:Yeah, and let's not forget those different driving modes as well.
Speaker 2:Oh right.
Speaker 3:So if you want a more relaxed fuel-efficient drive, okay, pop it into Eco Pro mode.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Feeling a bit more adventurous.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:Sport mode.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Sharpens the throttle response, adds weight to the steering, even adjusts the suspension.
Speaker 2:So it's like having multiple personalities on tap. Exactly All wrapped up in one stylish package.
Speaker 3:Absolutely.
Speaker 2:Yeah, but it's 2024. Right? No car can rely solely on driving dynamics.
Speaker 3:No.
Speaker 2:Tell us about the tech we can find in the 3 Series.
Speaker 3:You're absolutely right. These days a car's tech can be a deal breaker, and the 3 Series doesn't disappoint. Okay, bmw has always been at the forefront of in-car technology. Right, and the 3 Series gets to show off all the best features.
Speaker 2:So walk us through it. What kind of tech goodies can someone expect?
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:Especially in those newer models.
Speaker 3:Well, buckle up, because there's a lot to cover. Okay, let's start with the heart of the system BMW's iDrive.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:Now, you see, for a long time iDrive had a bit of a reputation for being overly complex, right, maybe even a tad frustrating to use.
Speaker 2:I've heard whispers. What changed?
Speaker 3:Well, BMW listened to their customers.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:And over the years, iDrive has evolved into one of the most intuitive and feature-rich infotainment systems on the market.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:It seamlessly blends navigation, entertainment, communication, vehicle controls all at your fingertips.
Speaker 2:So it's not just a fancy name. It actually delivers, it really does.
Speaker 3:BMW has put a lot of effort into making it incredibly user-friendly. Okay, gone are the days of plunky menus.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:And frustrating controls.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:Now you can control it through a beautiful touchscreen display.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:A responsive rotary dial on the center console.
Speaker 1:Mm-hmm.
Speaker 3:Or, if you prefer, intuitive voice commands.
Speaker 2:Voice commands. I'm always a bit skeptical of those.
Speaker 3:I never seem to understand I'm saying, yeah, bmw's voice control is surprisingly good. Okay, it's remarkably accurate.
Speaker 2:All right and more importantly, it feels natural to use.
Speaker 3:So you're saying I won't have to shout at my car let's just say it's a much more civilized experience okay, I can appreciate that and speaking of staying connected okay smartphone integration is seamless all right, we're talking apple carplay, yeah and android auto okay, so no matter what your smartphone allegiance is right, you'll be right at Okay, smartphone integration is seamless.
Speaker 2:All right, we're talking Apple CarPlay, yeah, and Android.
Speaker 3:Auto Okay. So no matter what your smartphone, allegiance is Right. You'll be right at home.
Speaker 2:It's like they thought of everything they try. But what about those more futuristic features?
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:Those things that make you feel like you're piloting a spaceship.
Speaker 3:Okay, yeah.
Speaker 2:Rather than a car. Yeah, what does the 3 Series offer there?
Speaker 3:One word digital cockpit.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Imagine this traditional gauges are gone, replaced by this sleek, high-resolution digital display. Okay, that's completely customizable. Tell me more, it's a game changer. Oh, yeah, you can choose to see everything, okay, from your speed, yeah. Fuel level, okay. Navigation instructions, yeah, driver assistance information Right, even your current playlist.
Speaker 2:So it's like having a personalized command center right there in front of you.
Speaker 3:Pretty much yeah.
Speaker 2:That's awesome.
Speaker 3:Yeah, it's great.
Speaker 2:But we can't forget about the essential stuff.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 1:Safety, of course, yeah.
Speaker 2:What kind of safety features does the 3 Series bring to the table?
Speaker 3:BMW takes safety very seriously.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:And the 3 Series is packed with advanced safety features that can actively help prevent accidents and keep you safe in those critical moments.
Speaker 2:So spill the beans. What kind of high-tech wizardry are we talking about?
Speaker 3:Well, for starters you've got your standard, but essential features.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:Like automatic emergency braking.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:This system uses a combination of radar and cameras.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:To detect potential collisions.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:And can actually apply the brakes automatically. Wow, if it senses that you're not reacting in time.
Speaker 2:That's a lifesaver, literally it is Adaptive cruise control. Okay.
Speaker 3:Another game changer.
Speaker 2:All right.
Speaker 3:Takes the stress out of long drives.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:Not only by maintaining a set speed Right, but also by automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe distance. Okay, from the vehicle in front.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:It's like having an extra set of eyes on the road.
Speaker 2:So it's constantly monitoring the flow of traffic.
Speaker 3:Exactly. And then there's the blind spot monitoring system. Right Uses sensors to detect vehicles lurking in your blind spots. Wow Alerts you, usually with a visual warning in the side mirrors.
Speaker 2:So between the automatic braking.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:The adaptive cruise control.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Line spot monitoring this thing's practically driving itself.
Speaker 3:Not quite there yet, okay, but these systems work together to create that cocoon of safety around you yeah right. Give you that extra peace of mind behind the wheel.
Speaker 2:I think we all need a little help these days.
Speaker 3:I think so yeah.
Speaker 2:Especially in today's driving environment.
Speaker 3:Absolutely.
Speaker 2:So we've got the driving excitement. Yeah, we've got the cutting edge tech, top notch safety. Right, it's starting to sound like the 3 Series is the complete package.
Speaker 3:Well, it's certainly getting close, but you're right, no car is perfect.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:Even a legend like the 3 Series has areas where it could improve.
Speaker 2:That's what makes these deep dives so fun is really getting into those strengths and weaknesses, exactly. So lay it on us. What are some of the trade-offs someone might experience if they go three series?
Speaker 3:One common one is rear seat space.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Particularly in the saloon.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:It's not exactly cramped back there.
Speaker 2:Oh, okay.
Speaker 3:But taller passengers might find the headroom and legroom a bit tight.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:Especially on those longer journeys.
Speaker 2:So if you're hauling around a car full of basketball players, right, the three series saloon might not be the right call.
Speaker 3:The touring, with its added headroom and cargo space, might be the ticket.
Speaker 2:Okay, makes sense. Any other potential downsides?
Speaker 3:Right no-transcript. Well, we already touched on maintenance costs.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:Which, as we discussed, can be a bit higher than average. Yeah, but I'd argue that for many 3 Series owners, those costs are almost seen as an investment.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:In a premium ownership experience.
Speaker 2:You get what you pay for, as they say.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. And you know, owning a car like the 3 Series, it's about more than just basic transportation, Right, it's about experiencing that level of engineering, performance and prestige that few other cars can match.
Speaker 2:It's an aspirational car, no doubt.
Speaker 3:For sure.
Speaker 2:One area where the 3 Series sometimes receives criticism is in the looks department.
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:Some people argue it's become maybe a little too evolutionary maybe a little too conservative in the styling compared to some of its rivals.
Speaker 3:It's true that BMW, in recent years, has opted for a more evolutionary approach to the 3 Series design.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Playing it safe.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:Sticking with a formula that's proven successful.
Speaker 2:So not exactly turning heads, not quite With radical design changes.
Speaker 3:Not in recent years. No.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:But I'd argue that the 3 Series design embodies a certain timeless elegance.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:You know, it's a car that will still look relevant and stylish years from now.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:Unlike some of its rivals, that might feel a bit dated.
Speaker 2:Yeah, sometimes that understated elegance is its own reward.
Speaker 3:That's it.
Speaker 2:Okay, so after weighing these pros and cons, yeah. Really diving into the 3 Series here. What's the final verdict?
Speaker 3:The BMW 3 Series. Even after all these years and countless competitors, it still remains a benchmark in its class. It's a car that excels in so many areas.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:Performance in its class. It's a car that excels in. So many areas. Yeah, performance technology luxury.
Speaker 2:Right, and even practically if you opt for the Touring. So it sounds like a resounding thumbs up from you.
Speaker 3:It is, yeah, it's a car that appeals to the heart and the head.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:It's got that prestige factor, the heritage of a true icon Okay, but it's also a car that's built to be driven yeah, connects with you on such a visceral level, spoken like a true icon, okay, but it's also a car that's built to be driven. Yeah, connects with you on such a visceral level.
Speaker 2:Spoken like a true enthusiast. I like it, thank you. So for our listener out there who came to us wanting to know more about this car, yeah, what's the key takeaway?
Speaker 3:The BMW 3 Series, even with its minor quirks yeah, des, with its minor quirks deserves to be on your short list. It's a car that can make every drive, whether it's a daily commute or a cross-continent adventure, a truly rewarding experience.
Speaker 2:I love that. Couldn't have said it better myself.
Speaker 3:Appreciate that.
Speaker 2:And with that we've reached the end of our deep dive into the BMW 3 Series.
Speaker 3:It's been fun.
Speaker 2:We've explored its past, its present, even gotten a glimpse into its future.
Speaker 3:Absolutely.
Speaker 2:Covered everything from those nitty-gritty engine specs to the joy of actually getting behind the wheel.
Speaker 3:Yeah, it's been a good one.
Speaker 2:Now the decision is yours.
Speaker 3:That's right.
Speaker 2:You've got the knowledge, you've heard the pros, you've heard the cons, so is the BMW 3 Series the right fit for your garage and your life.
Speaker 3:What do you think?
Speaker 2:Until next time, happy driving everybody.
