BMW 330d SE Touring - any good?

[tug100]

Hi

I'm thinking about one of these to replace my Disco 300 tdi. I tow a Sterling Europa 540 which has MTPLM of 1495kg.

Would be grateful for any reviews as a towcar. I know the kerbweight is about 1660 so on paper is fine. I like a stable tow, don't like putting up with stability problems.

Anyone know whether the 330 D SE has self levelling suspension?

Thanks

Martin

 

[stevemote]

Hi Martin, I have owned 2 330d's, a 2006 model and now a new one in March. Both have towed my Pageant Provence and now my new Swift Lifestyle (a dealer special based on the Charisma 495). The Pageant towed very well (MTPLM)1430 i think) and the Swift is even better at just under 1500 kgs. My car is automatic with a kerbside weight of 1700 kgs, manuals are a bit lighter. The Swift has shock absorbers and so the ride might feel better because of them. We have done 10 or so trips now including 3 weeks in France last month, Towing was faultless with so much power under the right foot. The new 330 is some 15hp more powerful than the previous one and I think there is a difference but nonetheless my previous car was just amazing - pulling away was always easy. Mpg was about 34 on the trip over around 1200 miles. I know the BMW doesn't have the biggest boot space (I have a tourer) but I would have got a Volvo if that was important! My car is the SE model and I found the suspension more than up to the job, no need for the harder M Sport model with lowered harder suspension. Self levelling suspension certainly wasn't on the option list when I brought mine in March. Hope that helps!!

Steve, Southampton

 

[Herv]

Hi.

Self-levelling suspension is not an option on 3-Series.

Any problem with the max noseweight? It is only 75 kgs, and probably a bit low for a van with a MTPLM > 1400 kgs.

Thanks

 

[Martin_374319553]

What about a 530D SE Touring?

You can pick them up for sensible money now. Bigger than the 3 series and has self levelling air suspension as standard.

Hardly any heavier than the 3 series as the front ends are all aluminium on the 5 series. Also has space for a space saver spare wheel in the boot unlike the 3 series (if that matters to you).

Great car (I speak from experience as I have a 2004 530D SE Auto Touring). Tows very well indeed, very stable. Don't even notice the van on the back (1420kg MTPLM Lunar).

 

[Martin_374319553]

What about a 530D SE Touring?

You can pick them up for sensible money now. Bigger than the 3 series and has self levelling air suspension as standard.

Hardly any heavier than the 3 series as the front ends are all aluminium on the 5 series. Also has space for a space saver spare wheel in the boot unlike the 3 series (if that matters to you).

Great car (I speak from experience as I have a 2004 530D SE Auto Touring). Tows very well indeed, very stable. Don't even notice the van on the back (1420kg MTPLM Lunar).

By the way, this is a different Martin to the original poster!

 

[tug100]

Thanks for your replies.

I've thought hard and decided the Freelander 2 is the best car for me. Currently looking for a good deal.

Martin

 

[ScouseIan]

I agree with Martin

A 530d should not be discounted until you have tried one.

'I think' it is one of the best cars in the world.

In some ways I can't wait to go back to one next time I change.

 

[Ianofwilts]

Now for a bit of controversy. I tow a sterlin trekker and with full payload is about 1730kg.I tow with a bmw 525 tourer at 1760kg driver and full tank.

I know the general rule 85%. This car has more in terms of safety features over the 3 series self, levelling suspension as standard and mine an 05 2.5lD version has 400lbs torque.

I have to say the handling having towed many combinations over the years is second to none. Now given perhaps the initial cost even 2nd hand and the not heavy enough to tow will only come from 4 x 4 drivers or those that have never considered such a car. I manage to get a top marque car second hand for new modeo money with capabilities far beyond average saloon cars and without the new white van man image the 4 x 4 gets when not towing.

Just my opinion but before getting the 3 series read up on the 5. I've had both, I dont know you but I know which you would prefer.