Given that (a) there's loads of them out there, and (b) there's an all new model out next summer? Hence residuals adversely affected.
It's just that I test drove the 320d today, and I love the performance and drive plus the idea of 50 mpg (but does it really return that in the real world?).
Don't really like the look of the imminent new A4, would never have another Merc, like Lexus but uneconomical petrol engines only, new Passat next year might be worth waiting for, Saab,Volvo,Honda etc don't appeal (car snobbery maybe, but residuals also, and not as good to drive)
Reckon I can get £1500 off list on a new one; dealers seem to ask silly money for second hand ones, and whilst I'd buy second hand I wouldn't want anything more than a year old...
Comments gratefully received etc
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T'dog, not sure that you'll get 50 mpg. I almost got a 320Cd in the summer, I had one for the weekend and the computer was saying 37-40 ish (I am a bit liberal with the fun pedal, although a colleague has just got the saloon and is getting the same). Decided against it as they put the prices up, so I went for the 120d, its not as pretty as the coupe but it worked out a better deal financially and has the new TD engine with even more bhp and torque.
P
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Vital to go for the 120dSE, NOT the Sport which neither rides nor handles as well because the suspension is too stiff and the tyres too low profile. See test at www.honestjohn.co.uk/road_tests/index.htm?id=146
HJ
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I get 38-41mpg long term average out of my 330d estate. You should get high 40s with the 320d.
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Is the same true of the 320d ES, which seems much better value than the SE?
Thanks
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Having driven 2, winter is always a bad time to buy, drive or own a 3 series.
So is summer, spring and autumn imo:-)
madf
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T`dog -Obviously the fuel consumption depends on how liberal you are with the loud pedal, but at an 80 mph motorway cruise, I get 49 mpg from my 320d SE Touring ( which is quite a bit heavier than the saloon).
Driving locally on mainly A & B roads, I average 41 mpg. I think your decision to buy now could work out ok for E46 residuals, if the interior trim & build quality of the forthcoming E90 model follows the downward spiral seen in the new X3.
If you value ride and handling, you will do well to heed H.J`s advice and keep well clear of the sport suspension as found on the ES models. I know the SE is more expensive but has a far higher spec and is the best model by far
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I would have thought it was a good time to buy a 3 series if you fancy one. The discount will turn into depreciation but that is true of everything.
Remember that the ES does not have climate control and one day you will want to part exchange or sell it.
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Thanks for advice. I was offered £3000 for my VW Passat by one dealer today, which I think's a bit mean (5y old 1.8T SE Estate 85K miles) so I'm hoping I will get more elsewhere. When I pointed out it had metallic paint and alloys (both were extras) he said they were pretty much expected on such a car and therefore didn't add value. But when I asked if I could have free metallic paint on the BMW it wasn't quite the same...
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Oh dear too late ! Read your review after I placed my order and my company scheme wont allow any changes.
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