2004 BMW 3 Series 325i review from North America
"A wonderful piece of Bavarian machinery that will provide you with a refreshing driving experience"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Although I've had the car for a short period of time, it appears as if the radio insists on performing well below-par for the price tag. If the volume is elevated past a moderate decibel level, the sound quality and bass are painful to one's ears.
General comments?
At 6'4 this car provides adequate if not poor lumbar support, head room, leg room, and rear passenger space. It is quite a chore for people to get themselves into the backseat and on trips over 20 miles, everyone's a little bit sore afterward.
Unfortunately it the sticker price leaped into the 35k range for a sunroof, power seats, heated seats, Xenon headlights, trip computer, and navigation system. At a base price of 28k, one would assume BMW would not be so picky as to make leather seats an option rather then the standard for every luxury automobile.
However pessimistic this review comes off as, I will confess that I manage to forget all of the 325i's small problems due to the car's glorious handling and maneuvering capabilities. When making any sort of abrupt stops or turns the seats manage to hold you firmly in place and provide a sense of "I can do anything in this car".
I will also add that this is a BMW and sometimes you're paying to do a little showing off or as I call it "reaping the rewards of hard work".
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 185 hp 2.5 liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 110 miles |
| Most recent distance | 1015 miles |
| Previous car | Cadillac Catera |
| Date of Entry | 5th September, 2004 |

