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AutoExpress, a UK publication, pits the new BMW 330d Touring with its Mercedes and Audi competitors in the premium sport wagon category, the C350i CDI and A4 3.0 TDI Avant. Under the hood, the BMW’s 330d Touring features a 3.0-liter straight-six diesel turbo producing 255 horsepower and runs 0-60mph in just 5.8 seconds. From a first look, the competition looks like an even match. However, BMW takes home the crown after scrutiny and is greatly ahead of its peers. Read why on this excerpt below:
Verdict
On paper, these three desirable estates are evenly matched. It doesn’t take long with a tape measure and calculator to realise that each has been carefully benchmarked against the other. Yet in the final reckoning, the BMW takes a surprisingly comfortable victory.
While it’s barely any bigger than the Mercedes or Audi, the 3 Series is faster and sharper to drive, plus it uses much less fuel, is cheaper to tax and costs less to service.
Factor in desirable details such as the separate-opening glass tailgate, and the Touring takes a well deserved win.
Separating the Audi and Mercedes is tougher. The A4 is more engaging and boasts a brilliant four-wheel-drive system, but it also has a smaller boot and is hobbled by a firm ride – and when it comes to family friendly estates, hardcore driving dynamics should take a back seat to comfort. As a result, the refined and roomy Mercedes edges into second place.
Yet both have to give best to the BMW, which in 330d form is all the compact estate you’ll need.
