2000 BMW 3-Series Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2000 BMW 3-Series includes a full evaluation of the 2000 BMW 3-Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 BMW 3-Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 BMW 3-Series help you decide if a 2000 BMW 3-Series is right for you.

2000 BMW 3-Series Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Cargo room (coupe and convertible)

Steering/handling	Rear-seat entry/exit (coupe)

Build quality

Exterior finish

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
7	4	5.3

The 2.5-liter is almost as fast as the 2.8, which did 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds in our test of a manual-transmission sedan.

Fuel Economy

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
6	7	5.7

We averaged 23.5 mpg in tests of a 328i. Premium fuel is mandatory on all 3-Series.

Ride Quality

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
7	7	5.3

Firm but comfortable in base form; available Sport Packages make things choppier. M3s can be harsh and thumpy over bumps.

Steering/Handling/Braking

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
8	7	6.4

Agile and grippy. Cornering Brake Control enhances stability under hard braking in turns. Wider tires on these rear-drive cars offer poor traction in snow.

Quietness

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
6	6	5

Sedans are well isolated from all noise. Coupes are nearly as good. M3s have noticeable tire noise, and convertibles have added wind noise.

Controls

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
5	5	6

Well laid out dashboard is augmented by available steering-wheel audio and cruise controls.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
6	6	5.4

Cabin is upright and narrow-feeling, but has plenty of head and leg room.

Room/Comfort (rear)

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
3	3	3.3

Decent knee and foot space, considerably less with the front seats back. Entry/exit is difficult in coupes.

Cargo Room

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
2	2	3.6

Sufficient trunk room in sedans. Slightly less in coupes, but they have folding rear seatbacks.

Value within Class

328i sdn, man.	323Ci cpe, auto.	Class Average
4	4	3.3

These BMWs are the "driver's cars" of the near-luxury class, offering spirited performance, high refinement, and terrific workmanship. As such, they're good values, trailing some rivals in expected standard features but making up ground with blue-chip resale values.

Total Score