BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Review & Road Test (2010) part 3

BMW 320d ED Review

Part 3 of our week long review and road test of the BMW 320d Blue Efficiency.

Try as hard as we can we can find precious little wrong with the BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics. About the only thing we can come up with that’s specific to the 320d ED is the longer final drive. We’ve no doubt it plays its part in achieving the economy and emissions on offer, but it does mean changing gear on motorways when baulked.

But it also means the 320d ED is doing not much more than ticking over in top gear at 70mph so we reckon it’s a reasonable trade-off. Apart from that the only criticism we would level is one we’d level at any BMW 3-Series; it’s just starting to feel a bit dated.

The handling and balance are still superb – as is the steering feel and response – just not ahead of the rest in the way they were. And it’s starting to feel just the tiniest bit cramped in the cabin. But considering the 3-Series has been with us for five years – and is due to be replaced in 2011 – it’s standing up remarkably well.

“The 320d ED may not have the biggest engine under its bonnet but – despite its eco-cred – it still cries out to be driven and responds when it is. It loves a twisty road and it gives you plenty of feedback.”

Of course, this is a BMW 3-Series and a BMW 3-Series constantly cries out to be driven. The 320d ED may not have the biggest engine under its bonnet but – despite its eco-cred – it still cries out to be driven and responds when it is. It loves a twisty road and it gives you plenty of feedback.

Which does mean you’re never going to get the claimed almost 70mpg. But who cares? If you care that much you can drive like a learner (which is the only way the Stop/Start is an advantage) and get close to the headline figure. But we drove it for a week – with four different drivers – and we still got 53mpg, despite enjoying the performance at every opportunity.

Minor gripes apart we think the 320d EfficientDynamics is not just a stunning achievement it’s a no-brainer, particulary from the point of view of a company or company car user. There is absolutely nothing else that comes close to offering what the 320d ED offers.

And at just £27k it can also be considered something of a bargain buy.