Best Medium Car over $50,000
Research shows people who buy medium cars over $50,000 rate low running, repair and insurance costs as priorities – and with BMW’s 330i Sport Line having all of these benefits and more, it’s no wonder why it takes out this Australia’s Best Cars title yet again.
What sets it apart from the rest
The BMW’s 330i is a little pricier this year, but it continues to get the important things right like comfort and build quality, which many others in this class are still trying to achieve.What it’s like to drive
BMWs are known for their on-road dynamics and excel over rivals. In particular, the chassis balance and overall preciseness have yet to be matched by its competitors. Nor does sharp handling compromise the 330i’s ability to soak up bumps. All of this is achieved without being too noisy, which helps the 330i rate highly in smoothness and quietness. BMW’s 185kW/350Nm turbo four-cylinder remains one of the best available, with maximum engine torque and a slick-shifting, eight-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is brisk, but that’s not at the expense of fuel consumption – apart from the hybrid Lexus models, the BMW leads the way in economy.
What it’s got
- iDrive system, which allows the driver and front-seat passenger to use the radio, air-conditioner and heater, sat-nav and more via one unified control.
- Heads-up display, which has info such as directions and current speed conveniently projected on a screen in the driver’s field of vision.
- Perfect 10 for safety, helped by advanced features like lane-departure warning autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian warning and cross traffic alert.
Is this the car for you?
The downside to the 330i is how much it costs. With an indicative drive away price of $77,459, it falls behind the Mercedes C200 and Volvo S60 by a big margin. But if you’re after a well-built, reliable car with a touch of luxury – the 330i won’t disappoint.How the finalists fared against the BMW 330i Sport Line
