BMW 320i vs. Buick Regal vs. Mercedes-Benz CLA250 vs. Volkswagen CC

MotorTrend compares the BMW 320i to models in other segments including the Mercedes-Benz CLA250, Buick Regal, Volkswagen CC. Though this bunch is a weird combination, it presents quite an interesting comparison. Here is an excerpt from their review which puts the BMW 320i as the winner of the challenge:

That the CLA250 was the only one to show an external stress marker wasn’t totally surprising. Before leaving on the road trip, each car had been sent down a quiet but beat-up-in-sections road at 65 mph to judge ride quality. The CC and Regal were plush all around, able to float over dips and bumps, with the Buick heaving up and down a little more than the Volkswagen. Even though the 320i came fitted with the passive M sport suspension — unique springs, shock absorbers, and bushings, with 0.2/1mm thicker front/rear anti-roll bars — as part of the $1300 Sport Package, it rode confidently on its staggered 18-inch wheels. The BMW suspension delivers a reassuring ride that’s more adept than those of the Regal or CC at snuffing motions after the wheel impact, rather than letting the car oscillate on its own. The purest of BMW purists have harangued that the current F30 3 Series isn’t as laser-focused on handling and as rewarding a driver’s driver as the E30, E36, E46, and E90. We counter the F30 is still an admirable all-around vehicle.

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First and second place were clear. First goes to the 320i, with its easygoing, composed chassis. It’s the most eager to go driving in by a long shot. Knocks against it: It’s weaker on wind-noise abatement and doesn’t come with as many features, although there are plenty of a la carte options to inflate the final price. Second sits the Regal, exceptionally outfitted with goodies including a heated steering wheel and AC power receptacle and boasting ride comfort for all ages. There’s no embarrassment in (inadvertently) taking it through a canyon.