[G30M]

Originally Posted by Ricochet48

I wish the 3 series touring options were available in the US. We get no wagon love in general as everyone unfortunately prefers SUVs.

i don't think you're missing out on much space, the 3 touring's boot is tiny. doesn't even fit a single ice hockey bag. i think the ride is also harsher due to the rear springs being stiffer to cope with the extra rear bits.

[Mr-Smith]

Originally Posted by VinceH

Hi All,

After a bit of advice if I may please.

Looking at changing to a 3 Series soon and was just wondering on what’s peoples opinion on whether the newer model with the ‘one slab’ dash is worth the extra cost, or whether the slightly older one with the typical IDrive is actually a better option?

From what I’ve read, apart from the new dash, slight change to the front and new colours, there isn’t much else different between the two, or am I wrong?

TIA

I would go with the 2024. New layout, new interface. You will get used to it after a while.
I believe that the old dash will look obsolete after a couple of years. Seeing also the interior of the upcoming “Neue klasse” it is clear that the “tablet” dashboards are here to stay..

[STi from DSM]

I absolutely hate the new headlight designs BMW has been going to. They have the stupid glowing lamp signals and weirder and weirder DRL designs. I would stick with the 2022 because to my knowledge those are still normal-ish looking.

[BMWbiker]

Originally Posted by G30M

i don't think you're missing out on much space, the 3 touring's boot is tiny. doesn't even fit a single ice hockey bag. i think the ride is also harsher due to the rear springs being stiffer to cope with the extra rear bits.

I owned an F31, until a giant pothole led to its demise. I regularly used its cargo capacity.

If the G21 M340i x-drive Touring (or M340d xdrive Touring) were available in the U.S. today, I would own one.

Instead, I have a G26. I like it a lot. I use its hatchback feature daily to carry my cargo. But it would be nice to have a wagon.

I briefly owned an X3 M40i. It was good for what it was. One advantage it has over my G26 in the twisties: it’s easier to see over undulations in the road. That said, I prefer my G26.

[Tano4ever]

They are both good

[NickyC]

The dash is horrible. 2022 or nothing.

[brianeck]

Originally Posted by Mr-Smith

I would go with the 2024. New layout, new interface. You will get used to it after a while.
I believe that the old dash will look obsolete after a couple of years. Seeing also the interior of the upcoming “Neue klasse” it is clear that the “tablet” dashboards are here to stay..

This is the reason I say 2022. Enjoy the easy to use pinnacle of infotainment one last time, because next time you buy a car you'll be forced into a system you 'will get used to after a while."

Idrive 7 is simple and easy to use, the buttons make sense, and you can set shortcut numbers to all your favorite things.

You're stuck learning how annoying it is to do everything through a touchscreen next time. Get a car with an industry leading, much celebrated user interface.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by brianeck

This is the reason I say 2022. Enjoy the easy to use pinnacle of infotainment one last time, because next time you buy a car you'll be forced into a system you 'will get used to after a while."

Idrive 7 is simple and easy to use, the buttons make sense, and you can set shortcut numbers to all your favorite things.

You're stuck learning how annoying it is to do everything through a touchscreen next time. Get a car with an industry leading, much celebrated user interface.

I totally agree with you about iDrive 7, it is user friendly and I love having the buttons!