Interior quality

A big factor in choosing between these three is the interior quality and though not much has changed in the 3-Series cabin, it remains competitive with an interesting design and tactile materials.

I?m still as confused as to how to operate the improved iDrive interface, even though supposedly easier now with its optional navigation system and four direct selection buttons to more easily switch between CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions.

We did like the new 8.8 inch screen that comes with the optional navigation system and the integrated 80 GB hard drive.

Display with high-resolution graphics and variable layout are via an 8.8 inch screen that comes with the optional navigation system and it has dimensions that now surpass any graphic and smaller displays presently available. All functions controlled by iDrive are also listed in the starter menu. The hard drive for audio files and navigation system now also includes a hard drive integrated in the vehicle, with a capacity of 80 GB, and it can be used to save your favourite music onto.

The Audi?s cabin is arguably the best, with a sporty, driver-focused dashboard and really smart materials. As with its two rivals here, you can also option it up the hilt, with fancy navigation systems, more exquisite seats and trim and gadgets galore. The Audi interior also feels the biggest, with impressive legroom for rear-seat passengers.

The Mercedes C-Class interior is its Achilles heel ? that dash design will put you to sleep and the materials feel way too cheap for this kind of car. The safety aspect is well sorted in all three of these cars, with crash structures that earned them five-star EuroNCAP ratings and the expected entourage of airbags and passive and active safety features.

Coming up trumps

The BMW 3-Series may have had quite a challenge facing the newly released Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but the more than 2500 changes implemented on the revised E90 have done the trick ? especially in the 330d featured here.

Its combination of frugal fuel habits, with CO2 emissions and spell-bounding performance make it a class act in this highly desirable trio of diesel sports sedans.

Further advantages are the 3?s harmonious axle load distribution, outstanding steering precision and the revised exterior styling that actually make it really pleasing to the eye now.