I decided to buy my approved used BMV 318i SE in November 2002 after a job change which meant I would be out on the road all day, 5 days a week. I previously owned a Renault Clio (far too small) and prior to that a 1989 BMW 525i. I've always been a big fan of BMW's since owning my first one, just for the comfort, prestige and drive and when it came to change my Clio for something more substantial, BMW came top of my requirement list everytime, especially ENCAP tests. I decided to buy an approved used and searched on the BMW site and found one in Chesterfield - some distance from my property. When I rang to enquire whether they could transfer it to my nearest dealer, they couldn't, however, were prepared to meet me halfway so I could look at the car. Well as soon as I saw it, I had to have it. The car itself is beautifully designed with ample room in both the front and the back (suitable for my 6ft 4" friend!) The previous owner had had a sports pack fitting, including sports steering wheel (leather) which controls the stereo, telephone and cruise control. Features include climate control, 6 CD changer, ASC and ABS, alarm and dimming rear view mirror (essential when you have some ignorant idiot driving behind you with full beam on). The car itself is Fern Green with grey cloth interior. I choose an automatic due to the amount of driving I do and have found it to be smooth and effortless to drive, especially on motorways. The handling is superb and suspension is great. Fuel costs can be high, depending on how you drive it. On a trip to Wales, I used a tank full of petrol (£45) getting from Essex to Wales, however, using cruise control and not speeding (too much!) I was able to do it on half a tank last week. I have also recently had a oil service at my local dealers. COsts were reasonable(under £100) and my next service is not due for another 15000 miles. Furthermore, the dealers are always so welcoming, offering you cappacinos or espressos as well as giving your car a wash and dry and vacuum while you wait. I have only had one thing go wrong with my car and that was the gear gaitor lights. The dealer fixed it immediately as part of the warranty. I don't think you'd of got that treatment at a lesser car dealer. I know I probably paid extra for my car as it was approved used and an automatic, however, BMW depreciation is low and as such, I haven't lost any money on a trade in yet!
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Advantages: Power, economy, style, reliability, boot size and access. Disadvantages: Slightly difficult to handle in the wet, slightly cramped in the rear seats.
the_kidda 08.08.2000 ·
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Review of BMW 318i
Advantages: Amazing control/handling of car and begs to be upgraded (is well worth it) Disadvantages: Need to upgrade a lot of different things, so have money saved/ready
YEODIE 02.10.2007 (10.10.2007)
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Review of BMW318is Coupé
Jul 28th, 2003
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