BMW 3-series – design
Safe rather than experimental styling ensures the 3-series is smart and inoffensive, but perhaps not as seductive as a Giulia
While several recent BMW models have been lambasted for the size of their kidney grilles, there’s a definite case of BMW playing it safe with the 3-series – tampering with its best-selling model clearly being seen as a risk too far. It’s instantly recognisable as a BMW, and update since the G20’s launch have sharpened it up with new grilles and light units.
Somehow, the 3-series doesn’t look outdated next to the latest C-class and A5, which are considerably newer under the skin. It’s more handsome still in M Sport spec, which brings more angular, aggressive bumpers and bigger wheels without being garish.
The Touring, meanwhile, is almost as sleek, with a cohesive profile and a neat rear-end treatment with a sloped rear window. That rear window can also be opened separately to the tailgate to throw small items in the boot, which is handy.
