You are honestly the best car reviewer out there. Thanks for doing what you do, most people watch the video and ready their fingers for a heated debate, but me, I just really enjoy the art and the work you put into making each review so unique. Its like you create an identity for each one. Awesome job!!
been owning e90 since 07 and contrary to what people think, it actually is reliable and painless experience.BMW's covered all my maintenance needs and there has not been any major problem with my car for 5 years since i bought it. thinking of upgrading to this 328.....
The road feel issues are a result of the switch to electrically assisted power steering instead of hydraulic power steering. The lack of a fluid interface removes some of the "micro" feedback from the front wheels. The "macro" feedback from bumpsteer moments, tire chatter and other stuff is still there, but only on dry asphalt. On low grip surfaces the steering really makes you feel detached. This change also allows the F30 328i to hit 40+ MPG in real world testing by myself and others.
Usually I hate american reviews, for me they are usually too wild and unobjective. This one however is excellent! Loved to watch it, and also an informative and honest review. Great job!
Have the 2013 328i and love it. This car is peppy and great on gas mileage. I have hit 40 MPG in city driving. The auto stop/start is not that bad, but takes getting use to. IDrive is amazing. It keeps your hands on the wheel and I cannot believe that this has not made it to other vehicles. The car is quite comfortable in the back seat since they increased the size of the vehicle.
I just don't know why lots of dealer do not order the LED light package for the 3 series. It's just $800 add-on package for the LED angle eye, but make a huge difference!
It may be due to the replacement cost if and when a bulb goes out. If one doesn't purchase an extended warranty, bumper to bumper, and a bulb goes out, its a $1900.00 repair cost. I purchased the extended warranty, bumper to bumper, 7 years, 100,000 miles, for $3400.00, with a 50.00 detectable.
Is it HID or LED? if LED, it would "likely" last for good 20 years...and no, if the bulb goes out, all you need to change is the light bulb and they do not cost $1,900. $1,900 sounds like full headlamp replacement cost, and you can get them less than $500 a pair on Ebay.....
Less? Yes. That doesn't mean it's gone completely. It still handles quite well. A fellow writer I respect who has driven this car on the track says it's phenomenal. In other words, for 99 percent of owners it will be overkill. Very few people drive these cars to their limits.
Dude u have a pretty rare gift, u can give valuable info be fun and interesting at the same time. I watch pretty much every tech review on youtube and i only found 1 person with your gift. Keep it up
By far you make some of the best video reviews out there. Being a Northwest guy, I'm surprised you don't review more trucks. (Not that there are very many out there)
i just got this as a loaner when I went to the dealer, and there actually is no need to press the start button twice to shut the car off. All you do is press it once, and when you lock the car, the iDrive and other accessories turn off automatically.
I drive a 320d twinpower turbo automatic sport line f30 2012 at work nearly every day and i can tell you, no other car in it's class even compare to it. It is that good to drive and that good everywhere else too. I would never even consider an audi, mercedes or volvo of equal class.
Bought a 2012 Audi A4 because it was my type of car preference. Alot of people from BMW/Mercedes stare at my car since they barely see an Audi while you see plenty BMW/Mercedes. I love my car man, but altogether its preferences
I love the BMW 3 series but it is kind of sad that this a 2012 model and its the first time the BMW 3 series has ever offered features like an LCD infotainment system, Rear view camera, around view monitor, key less push button start and finally STANDARD powered seats. Great car and I'm finally glad they have caught up aesthetically despise their high sales. Didn't seem like a problem for those who just wanted the brand prestige though.
I recognize that road by the river as the road to the Hoh Rainforest trailhead. Wonderful road, and the 101 loop around the Olympic Mtns is a great place to drive a well-handling car.
It's different for different powertrains. Also, since I shoot these videos, the launch is not the one I do for tests (since it's a different driver). You'll notice that Martin uses a little brake torque when launching, I used a bit more.
The older ones yes, the newer ones actually feel very light on their feet, if you watch Audi A6 reviews you'll hear they actually feel more nimble than a 5-Series. By the way I would start respecting Audi if I were you because they have a far superior system than the X-Drive and handle like something that's RWD.
You couldn't be more wrong and obviously need to go and do a test drive. BMW's are still the kings of road dynamics and feel in the executive saloon segment, they still have that typical BMW solidity that always tells you "is that all you can do to me?" when driving it on the limit. The thing is, 3 series now is almost as big as the 5 series 10 years ago, and 5 series is as big as a 7 series. Aside from that, BMW's are now very comfortable and smooth riding, so that might take some feel away.
Actually - the On/Off button is two-staged to emulate the On (Auxiliary) mode... To turn your car off completely you simply hold the button in... RTFM.
I agree that in this class, the 3-series is still king but the A4 is an old model. If you check reviews of the 5-Series, most will tell you that the A6 is a much better handling car. The thing I meant is not that this car is worst than the competition, its the fact that BMW is "The Ultimate Driving Machine" and yet every new generation gets watered down in the handling department..
"Seems like there's less road feel" I've heard that on other reviews for other new model BMWs, I must say BMW is losing its touch... They have to go back to the basics; high-revving naturally-aspirated inline 6's, very light and solid chassis and heavy but rapid steering. I feel like BMW is becoming just another Mercedes, Audi is where its at in the agility department now.
I've got the C250 outside right now for a test drive for a few days. In comparison it's slower, more plasticy and tinny than the BMW. Headroom (I'm only a shade under 6ft) leaves my head brushing against the roof at the seats lowest setting. I like MBs sat nav vs BMW and the voice recognition is dead accurate. IMO BMW will be getting my money again. 5 series down to a 3 series to get those extra horses :)
Well I can't argue with that. I just think people should take the new Caddy's seriously, I mean, it does everything that the BMW does. In my opinion the Caddy looks better, from multiple reviews it drives better, more stylish interior, uses same quality if not better materials, same gas mileage. Its really a close battle, but it comes down to what you believe in. Its only the people that bug me that say. "Well the BMW has to be better than the Cadillac because... it's a BMW"
i went for a lease on a 328i, premium and cold weather package. They have balls, $600+ a month with $2.5k down. Yea right. I had a 07' 335i for $550 @ 24 months. Stupid pricing.
And no, A4 is not nearly as nice to drive as the 3 series. Even C-class beats the A4, especially the FWD variants. A4 drives like a Passat with a stiffer suspension, A4 can actually be pretty stiff and uncomfortable. Aside from being the best handling and best driving small saloon on the market, 3 series is now also very comfortable. And you know its very hard to make a car that is fast, good handling and comfortable at the same time.
Bmw's 3 series line up has got confusing again. I got their line up before this came out. 325/328 was the fuel efficient model, 330/335 was the turbo sports car model. Now IMO the 3 series a whole expensive pile of confusing trims. I would take the Mercedes Benz c250 coupe, or the Audi a4 over any BMW 3-series.
Well equipped 328i for 50k dollars? Can't even get a basic 320i or 318d for that in Europe. Americans should be happy to be able to buy cars so cheaply.
i like my bmw "for big passion" also! you like your audi and enjoy in it, but first you must try to drive other cars before add any comment which is better! audi, bmw merc, vlovo.... they are all good it is yust personal choice what to buy. they would not bee on market if they are not good!
You are honestly the best car reviewer out there. Thanks for doing what you do, most people watch the video and ready their fingers for a heated debate, but me, I just really enjoy the art and the work you put into making each review so unique. Its like you create an identity for each one. Awesome job!!
Still the best looking car, IMO.
been owning e90 since 07 and contrary to what people think, it actually is reliable and painless experience.BMW's covered all my maintenance needs and there has not been any major problem with my car for 5 years since i bought it. thinking of upgrading to this 328.....
The road feel issues are a result of the switch to electrically assisted power steering instead of hydraulic power steering. The lack of a fluid interface removes some of the "micro" feedback from the front wheels. The "macro" feedback from bumpsteer moments, tire chatter and other stuff is still there, but only on dry asphalt. On low grip surfaces the steering really makes you feel detached. This change also allows the F30 328i to hit 40+ MPG in real world testing by myself and others.
Usually I hate american reviews, for me they are usually too wild and unobjective.
This one however is excellent! Loved to watch it, and also an informative and honest review.
Great job!
This is actually one of the best reviews I've seen for the 328, thank you!
Have the 2013 328i and love it. This car is peppy and great on gas mileage. I have hit 40 MPG in city driving. The auto stop/start is not that bad, but takes getting use to. IDrive is amazing. It keeps your hands on the wheel and I cannot believe that this has not made it to other vehicles. The car is quite comfortable in the back seat since they increased the size of the vehicle.
I just don't know why lots of dealer do not order the LED light package for the 3 series. It's just $800 add-on package for the LED angle eye, but make a huge difference!
+CYSongMC agreed looks so much better...
It may be due to the replacement cost if and when a bulb goes out. If one doesn't purchase an extended warranty, bumper to bumper, and a bulb goes out, its a $1900.00 repair cost. I purchased the extended warranty, bumper to bumper, 7 years, 100,000 miles, for $3400.00, with a 50.00 detectable.
Is it HID or LED? if LED, it would "likely" last for good 20 years...and no, if the bulb goes out, all you need to change is the light bulb and they do not cost $1,900. $1,900 sounds like full headlamp replacement cost, and you can get them less than $500 a pair on Ebay.....
Less? Yes. That doesn't mean it's gone completely. It still handles quite well. A fellow writer I respect who has driven this car on the track says it's phenomenal. In other words, for 99 percent of owners it will be overkill. Very few people drive these cars to their limits.
Very informative review, Tom. BMW 328 starts at a decent price, but tick the option box a few times and you're over 50Gs!
Dude u have a pretty rare gift, u can give valuable info be fun and interesting at the same time. I watch pretty much every tech review on youtube and i only found 1 person with your gift. Keep it up
Harrison Ford is reviewing cars now?
+VinceLA91 Hmmm, usually I'm mistaken for Dennis the Menace...
By far you make some of the best video reviews out there. Being a Northwest guy, I'm surprised you don't review more trucks. (Not that there are very many out there)
This new 3 is as big as my old e39 5, now that's more bang for the buck!
Near North Bend, Washington. It's the same area they shot Twin Peaks years ago.
Finally,Somebody who did a review on the modern line.Thank you so much.
i just got this as a loaner when I went to the dealer, and there actually is no need to press the start button twice to shut the car off. All you do is press it once, and when you lock the car, the iDrive and other accessories turn off automatically.
I drive a 320d twinpower turbo automatic sport line f30 2012 at work nearly every day and i can tell you, no other car in it's class even compare to it. It is that good to drive and that good everywhere else too. I would never even consider an audi, mercedes or volvo of equal class.
I love this car I bought one, so brilliant to drive and light handling. Amazing torque as well. Fantastic machine!
Bought a 2012 Audi A4 because it was my type of car preference. Alot of people from BMW/Mercedes stare at my car since they barely see an Audi while you see plenty BMW/Mercedes.
I love my car man, but altogether its preferences
8 years later after you wrote this comment now you see Audis everywhere, along with BMWs and Mercedes. 😂
@@triple-aries facts lol, now I got a BMW Supra hhaa
I have the 2012 Coupe with the strt 6. Love it, glad that I could get the old steering system.
another fantastic review, the best I have seen anywhere!
I love the BMW 3 series but it is kind of sad that this a 2012 model and its the first time the BMW 3 series has ever offered features like an LCD infotainment system, Rear view camera, around view monitor, key less push button start and finally STANDARD powered seats. Great car and I'm finally glad they have caught up aesthetically despise their high sales. Didn't seem like a problem for those who just wanted the brand prestige though.
I recognize that road by the river as the road to the Hoh Rainforest trailhead. Wonderful road, and the 101 loop around the Olympic Mtns is a great place to drive a well-handling car.
It's different for different powertrains. Also, since I shoot these videos, the launch is not the one I do for tests (since it's a different driver). You'll notice that Martin uses a little brake torque when launching, I used a bit more.
You can, but it might be missing A/C or something important like that.
Love your videos! When you test out the launch, do you just put your. Foot down?
My Dad just bought one of these, he loves it.
what happens if you don't use run flat tires?
People really seem to be hating the Pure Fineline Wood accents...
The older ones yes, the newer ones actually feel very light on their feet, if you watch Audi A6 reviews you'll hear they actually feel more nimble than a 5-Series. By the way I would start respecting Audi if I were you because they have a far superior system than the X-Drive and handle like something that's RWD.
Thumbs up for the sense of humor.
Anchorage County sounds like a great time.
How often does need to change engine oil and gearbox oil for this model ?
You couldn't be more wrong and obviously need to go and do a test drive. BMW's are still the kings of road dynamics and feel in the executive saloon segment, they still have that typical BMW solidity that always tells you "is that all you can do to me?" when driving it on the limit. The thing is, 3 series now is almost as big as the 5 series 10 years ago, and 5 series is as big as a 7 series. Aside from that, BMW's are now very comfortable and smooth riding, so that might take some feel away.
both are good cars it is your choice what you like more!
Actually - the On/Off button is two-staged to emulate the On (Auxiliary) mode... To turn your car off completely you simply hold the button in... RTFM.
Is that the battery in the trunk? Nice.
Is that a good thing?
Another awesome video Tom!!
Does that have a system?
I agree that in this class, the 3-series is still king but the A4 is an old model. If you check reviews of the 5-Series, most will tell you that the A6 is a much better handling car. The thing I meant is not that this car is worst than the competition, its the fact that BMW is "The Ultimate Driving Machine" and yet every new generation gets watered down in the handling department..
what are the prices for BMW's in Europe?
"Seems like there's less road feel" I've heard that on other reviews for other new model BMWs, I must say BMW is losing its touch... They have to go back to the basics; high-revving naturally-aspirated inline 6's, very light and solid chassis and heavy but rapid steering. I feel like BMW is becoming just another Mercedes, Audi is where its at in the agility department now.
How much does it cost?
Go to the BMW website and click on the "Pricing" tab.
I've got the C250 outside right now for a test drive for a few days. In comparison it's slower, more plasticy and tinny than the BMW. Headroom (I'm only a shade under 6ft) leaves my head brushing against the roof at the seats lowest setting. I like MBs sat nav vs BMW and the voice recognition is dead accurate. IMO BMW will be getting my money again. 5 series down to a 3 series to get those extra horses :)
Great review, Tom.
Well I can't argue with that. I just think people should take the new Caddy's seriously, I mean, it does everything that the BMW does. In my opinion the Caddy looks better, from multiple reviews it drives better, more stylish interior, uses same quality if not better materials, same gas mileage. Its really a close battle, but it comes down to what you believe in. Its only the people that bug me that say. "Well the BMW has to be better than the Cadillac because... it's a BMW"
Looks good, but the back of BMW sedan models are looking a bit too similar.
I like the new 3 series. It really does almost look like a 5 series now. Hey Tom, do you prefer the 3 or 5 series?
Great review and it's a nice car albeit a bit pricey.
The international sign for fun
I am audi fan, but i'd respect bmw
Being a faithful MB consumer, I have to say this seems to beat the C Class.
will that iphone thing fit an iphone 5?
It is like that .. Most People drive Cars like BMW or Mercs because of the Status .. and not because they are like me , for big passion .
Well, if I'm not mistaken, even the Premium sound system otion for this car costs $7k and this car that Tom reviewed was loaded. You do the math.
i went for a lease on a 328i, premium and cold weather package. They have balls, $600+ a month with $2.5k down. Yea right. I had a 07' 335i for $550 @ 24 months. Stupid pricing.
That wood is the most beautiful thing I ever seen in any car.
Well done review and video angles. Thanks
The bad thing about owning BMW is the maintaince. Expensive.
They took the car from New Jersey all the way to Washington?
Honest review, fun guy, subscribed
Bmw 328i or benz c250 ?
I refuse to go to the website because I like his hair like that. XD
Check the 335i or the new 550xd with Triturbo thats rox...in Europe u pay more for this BMW 328i and our Gas Price, 1,75€ = 1 Liter 98oz
4 cylinder + turbo is better than standard 6. more horsepower, better efficiency and lighter weight. so it's no loss.
No comparison in the driving feel
Hi Tom! Nice reviews, enjoyed it. Could you review Merc C class and E class 2013 model?
They have run flats. You can drive up to 150 miles with a flat.
I'm just going to get the 320i
is this an e92?
Brilliant review!
omg omg omg i am getting one as soon as i get my drivers license ... theirs no if and or buts im going to get it
And no, A4 is not nearly as nice to drive as the 3 series. Even C-class beats the A4, especially the FWD variants. A4 drives like a Passat with a stiffer suspension, A4 can actually be pretty stiff and uncomfortable. Aside from being the best handling and best driving small saloon on the market, 3 series is now also very comfortable. And you know its very hard to make a car that is fast, good handling and comfortable at the same time.
Very good review, very unbiased and balanced. Much better than that roadlfy bullshit.
Bmw's 3 series line up has got confusing again. I got their line up before this came out. 325/328 was the fuel efficient model, 330/335 was the turbo sports car model. Now IMO the 3 series a whole expensive pile of confusing trims. I would take the Mercedes Benz c250 coupe, or the Audi a4 over any BMW 3-series.
Love it, but I like the luxury version a lil better!
bring back the inline sixes! they were great!
Same issue goes for people in other smaller countries like Korea. But 50k here isn't that cheap either.
Compared to what?
It’s now worth 8-12k
Paddle Shifters are standard in the sport version. This video is the "modern version". The luxury version doesn't have it either.
This or Audi A4??
Great review as always :)
Wow,great review
awesome review
packed with info
Informative. Thanks for this review.
Well equipped 328i for 50k dollars? Can't even get a basic 320i or 318d for that in Europe. Americans should be happy to be able to buy cars so cheaply.
cant wait for the coupe
Every review i have read says the New 3 series slaughters Its opposition from Audi, Mercedes, Volvo, Acura and more.
Thanks for sharing!
Stroking that warm steering wheel, eh? 3:14
I love audi as well the led headlights got me lol. but theres a cheap mercedes coming out soon (cla 250) and omg the new infiniti q50 is just stunning
tnx. enjoyed it.
i like my bmw "for big passion" also! you like your audi and enjoy in it, but first you must try to drive other cars before add any comment which is better! audi, bmw merc, vlovo.... they are all good it is yust personal choice what to buy. they would not bee on market if they are not good!
What kind of sport car with no Paddle shifters.
Great review!
Is it me or part of the dashboard is obstructed by the steering wheel!
Oh look! BMW got into the family sedan business!
They destroyed the 3 series :( Im glad the coupe didn't change. The 2012 coupe is the sexiest BMW they have.