BMW 3 Series 318 is Review

Good Points
Quality build, excellent driving experience, head-turner.

Bad Points
Not exactly fuel efficient. Slightly underpowered, rev-happy four cylinder engine. Some minor electrical problems.

General Comments
This car is my first BMW after having owned two Hondas and has been quite an experience for me. While it is a little slow compared to some of the other BMWs out there I have adjusted to a more casual style of driving and I'm still loving it.



The finish of this vehicle is excellent (luckily I bought it off someone who had taken good care of it) and it reeks of quality. A good polish and wax and this thing looks brand new.



I prefer the look of this model to the newer ones as it seems a bit more aggressive (though they look very lightweight without some sort of bodykit). I bought mine with the M Auto body kit and it's a stunner.



Interior is typical BMW: firm but comfortable seats, fairly conservative but quality dash. Everything has held together quite well after seven years - again, looks close to brand new. Only problem is a glove box that requires a good push to shut properly.



Power is a a bit on the low side (103kw) but it may be attributable to a strange exhaust problem I have yet to investigate properly. The 318 series are all known to be a little underpowered with their four cylinder engine. Mine is manual and I've heard that these can keep up with an Auto 320.



Had some minor electrical issues: the drivers side window getting stuck. Not really a problem as holding down the switch seems to work but auto-close isn't gonna work any time soon. The sunroof opens a bit 'jerkily'.



Even given the hefty price tag associated with BMW - I will be getting one for my next car.