Having had the car for about five weeks and done just under a thousand miles under all weather and road conditions, this is, without doubt, the most 'complete' BMW I have owned (this is my 8th). Although the engine is nominally the same as that in my 335i, they have obviously 'tweaked' it and it now feels much more 'taut' and solidly put together and the response from any accelerator input is instantaneous - without biting you in the bum!. This, combined with a slick gear shift (it is a manual) and what may be an improved gearbox also, makes it almost impossible to fluff a gear change and I am confident that the car could be driven by a novice.
The electric steering is a complete revelation and although feather light in comparison to the hydraulic system, there is ample feel at all speeds and the car goes precisely where it is pointed.
The wheels although 18" rims as with my 335i have got slightly higher profile tyres (40 to 45 at the front; 35 to 40 at the rear). This has almost transformed the ride. It is much more accommodating and stable over our rotten road surfaces and far less inclined to sheer off over rutted surfaces.
At long last, the I-Drive is user-friendly. It is now entirely logical and a doddle to operate even for a technophobe such as myself.
In summary, this is the best 6-cylinder Beemer I have ever driven and I use any excuse to take it out for a spin....

Geoff Pell, Gosport. Hants

Report as offensive