For $45,000, you have a choice between two BMW compact family haulers, the X3 sport-ute and the 3-Series Touring you see here. Both have all-wheel drive, seating for five and the dog, but the X3 benefits from 30 extra horses.
In the sales charts, though, the 3-Series Touring is way behind the X3. In 2008, BMW moved out 279 328i wagons and 2296 X3s, so why bother offering it? Because they can; premium wagons are popular in Europe, so it's not a big deal for the German brand to bring over the ocean. Trendy or not, the Touring is an interesting alternative for those who don't like SUVs.
Cold interior
A lot has been said about the 3-Series' cockpit. It's very well-crafted, while every switch and button operate solidly. The contrasting leather seats are a nice touch, and their various power adjustments means everyone can find a comfortable driving position.
However, the ambiance inside could use a little more cheerfulness. Like in the Mercedes C-Class, the 3-Series' cockpit isn't as attractive as the ones in the Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G35, among others. But it's a question of taste, after all.
What especially lacks in this BMW is rear-seat space. Climbing aboard is fairly easy, but getting out is a little more of an arduous task, since the doors aren't aligned with the floor. There isn't much foot room under the front seats, the transmission tunnel is in the way, and sitting three adults back there is a challenge.
As for cargo space, the Touring is unfortunately the smallest among premium wagons, whether the rear seats are up or down; the Saab 9-3 SportCombi are Volvo V50 are much more accommodating. On a positive note, the retractable cargo cover also doubles as a pet gate, so Rover can't jump on the kids, even if they ask him to. In addition, the glass section of the tailgate can be opened separately.
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| The 328i Touring is solidly built, quiet, quick and very capable during the winter months. |
In the sales charts, though, the 3-Series Touring is way behind the X3. In 2008, BMW moved out 279 328i wagons and 2296 X3s, so why bother offering it? Because they can; premium wagons are popular in Europe, so it's not a big deal for the German brand to bring over the ocean. Trendy or not, the Touring is an interesting alternative for those who don't like SUVs.
Cold interior
A lot has been said about the 3-Series' cockpit. It's very well-crafted, while every switch and button operate solidly. The contrasting leather seats are a nice touch, and their various power adjustments means everyone can find a comfortable driving position.
However, the ambiance inside could use a little more cheerfulness. Like in the Mercedes C-Class, the 3-Series' cockpit isn't as attractive as the ones in the Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G35, among others. But it's a question of taste, after all.
What especially lacks in this BMW is rear-seat space. Climbing aboard is fairly easy, but getting out is a little more of an arduous task, since the doors aren't aligned with the floor. There isn't much foot room under the front seats, the transmission tunnel is in the way, and sitting three adults back there is a challenge.
As for cargo space, the Touring is unfortunately the smallest among premium wagons, whether the rear seats are up or down; the Saab 9-3 SportCombi are Volvo V50 are much more accommodating. On a positive note, the retractable cargo cover also doubles as a pet gate, so Rover can't jump on the kids, even if they ask him to. In addition, the glass section of the tailgate can be opened separately.
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| What especially lacks in this BMW is rear-seat space. |