xDrive23d Auto

Smooth, powerful and economical, but with presence

I had planned to order the Efficient Dynamics sDrive20d, but had a sit in the xDrive23d at Elms BMW, Bedford and rather liked the increased level of trim. It was too pricey to buy new, or even secondhand at a dealer, but I managed to find a pretty young one for sale for at a reasonable price.

I've now driven around 450 miles and I really enjoy it. It is not a large car on the road, taking up the same space in the garage as my 320 Touring, but it has plenty of space inside. My car has the Design Package, with Oyster leather, trimmed with black and yellow piping and sports seats. These are very comfortable and the view over the road is great. The steering at lower speeds seems a little heavier than I might have expected, but I am getting used to it with no trouble.

My wife disliked the ride in my Mercedes ML270 but this car is entirely to her liking. It's probably not as economical as I would like (around 40mpg on a mix of driving) and I am using a light right foot as a result, but it's not too bad. The performance is really satisfying, especially when coupled with the smooth automatic 6-speed. I am using the Normal auto mode for the most part with some Manual control with the steering wheel paddles.

It is quieter than my 320d SE Touring, is easier to take off the tarmac, has a more comfortable ride and gives me more presence on the road. It's not as pretty as my 320, though . . .

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