Not sold in the US - there are quite a few UK posters here that
may be able to offer specific feedback on that model.

BMW sales and service is quite spotty.  Our friends in the UK
are always complaining.  So do we in the US; although problems
here seem to be more warranty and related to service solutions
from the North American subsidiary.

FloydR

We don't have the 320 in the States, we get the 325 or 328 (I forget which,
but I'm pretty sure it's the 325 for the '07 models).

I do not want to diss the 320, but it is the base model for the platform. I
suggest you try the upgrade model, 330 is the other choice here, I don't
know what your options are. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at the
extra stuff you get at a not-so-different price.

In any case, my car(s) (I've had 3 of them altogether, and the 2nd and 3rd
are in my inventory now) and I buy them used. The service the cars offer is
top shelf. I do my own brake work, and pretty much anything that does not
require opening of the motor or transmission. My cars have given me the
lowest cost of ownership of any of the dozen or so cars I've owned over the
years.

I am very happy with my BMW years and cars, and I am sure you will be happy
driving whichever car you get. Try the next model up from the 320, you will
be glad you did.

Can I suggest - not knowing your particular financial situation - that you
actually keep an open mind. Personally I have a 730d which is as fantastic as
anything except for the top end performance of the V12.

Had a 320 sport diesel auto on load yesterday and found it OK to say the least
but I definitely would NOT buy one.  When back at the dealer I saw the new 330i
Coupe - nice looking car and fast but still with that 3 series interior albeit
this time in leather and a better Sat Nav with really nice and easy clean alloys
so still a no buy for me.

The 5 series has all the right numbers inc a V10 rocket engine and a 200mph
capability but unfortunately a 3 series style interior as does the beautiful 6
series.

I realise that my tastes are mine and not yours but if you intend using the car
on the outback unmade roads and some of the other crappy roads you have out
there I would advise you stay well clear of any SPORT suspension package on a
ROAD car especially if ordering large wheels (over 18") It will make you sick
soon after you put about 5000Km on the clock.

I think a better buy for your job would be a 3.0d X5 or X3?

Try to rent or borrow a 330i doesn't matter body style for a few days and see if
you can live with it then try a 335di turbo diesel - that's a real mover and the
coupe is a great looker and the mileage is over 40mpg (imp) or around
6.8Lit/100Km.  The large engined cars are easier on the body and mind and last
longer and the diesels are absolutely fantastic on acceleration considering your
silly speed limits out there and hardly any traffic outside the towns and
cities.

Hugh

Thanks to all who responded, much appreciated.

I guess why I chose the 320i as the car of choice was the fact that I
have actually driven one and it's the only BMW I have driven.

I guess, to be fair to myself I need to take the oter options for a
spin.

As an update I am mow looking at the 323i which is the 6-Cylinder
version @140kW compared to 110kW for the 320.

At least I have the option of time on my side as it will take about 2
months for the cash to come through.

Thanks again.
Fritzables.

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