Used car specialist shares refined sport sedan for £10,000

A used car expert has shared a popular model for drivers looking for a good mix of performance and practicality for a very reasonable budget.

Adam Morris and Jim Hull host the ReDriven YouTube channel, regularly appearing in videos to share their thoughts on certain pre-owned models, offering advice to help buyers avoid annoying problems and get the best value for money.

In one of his latest videos, Adam takes a look at a BMW 3 Series G20, stating that although they may depreciate, they are brilliant cars to drive.

He advised: “When it comes to ‘should you buy a G20 3 Series’, if you can justify the depreciation and have a few thousand dollars set aside for a possible rainy day, yes, you should buy one.

“Avoid diesel engines as gasoline engines are simply more impressive in every way and avoid some of the maintenance costs, and obviously be sure to do all the critical pre-purchase inspection checks. But, find the 3 Series right, and what a great car.”

Introduced in October 2018, the G20 is the latest iteration of the long line of BMW 3 Series saloons and estates and features the German brand’s distinctive styling, such as the widened kidney grilles at the front and sculpted lines on the doors and wings.

Drivers can choose from a considerable range of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with the six-cylinder M340i model capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

Although the BMW 3 Series is currently priced at £40,220 in the new market, drivers can pick up a used example for less than £10,000.

Behind the wheel, Adam pointed out that the transmission can be difficult in sport mode at lower speeds, but the BMW presents a very pleasant driving experience.

He added: “When it comes to complaints and issues with the driving experience, there aren’t many. Some owners have mentioned that the turning radius isn’t fantastic, but that’s not really a big issue. The transmission in the sportier setting can get a Bit confusing if using it around town, some of the turns can be a bit difficult.

“How about the positives? Yes, there are some. In this M340i, this engine with iDrive all-wheel drive, it’s incredible for performance. In fact, on public roads, I don’t know why anyone would need more power and get up and go than this thing.”

While ReDriven recommended that drivers looking for a high-performance sedan should consider a BMW 3 Series, mechanic Jim Hull advised that drivers should check for oil and coolant leaks before purchasing one.

He explained, “The most common problem you’ll see on these things are oil leaks from the oil filter housing or coolant leaks from the same part. From the factory, they’re made of plastic, they’re weak, and they leak a lot.

“Now, you can buy replacement parts made from aluminum, they are cheaper than the real BMW ones and last much longer. It’s a similar story with the coolant leaks from the thermostat and water pumps. It’s quite a common problem with that. “