BMW 3-Series - Pictures

In M Sport trim, the 3-Series has lower suspension and stiffer dampers and looks purposeful. But its firm ride is uncomfortable over bumpy surfaces and lacks the Mercedes’ composure on anything other than smooth roads.

The 320d gets brushed aluminium surfaces in M Sport trim. As with the Mercedes the seating position is excellent and it’s ergonomically well laid out. Cars without sat-nav don’t get an iDrive controller, and are more user-f

The BMW’s boot is 15 litres smaller than the C220’s, but thanks to the lack of spare wheel, there is extra stowage under the boot floor. As with Mercedes, BMW charges for folding rear seats – they’re a £31

With 163bhp and 340Nm of torque, the 2.0-litre unit has the smallest power output in this test, and while the 320d is the slowest from 0-60mph, the BMW’s engine has a very linear and smooth power delivery.

As with the Mercedes, BMW has managed to give its sporty model a different look to lesser versions. The deep front bumper is a common M Sport design trait that gives this executive diesel real presence on the road.