 I am the owner of the previous model of the 3 series, and had this car as a loaner for a month and over 2k miles in driving. It fixes everything that was "annoying" with the old model; a nice smooth 8 speed automatic transmission, really strong acceleration, no more bone-jarring over NY/NJ potholes, and a functional navigation that actually has useful up-to-date traffic information.City MPG is not much better, but highway is where it shines (~30% better MPG).Unfortunately, the negatives outweigh the positive. Starting the car, you hear this annoying diesel like clatter. The power steering is one of the best I've ever driven, but still lackluster in feedback. Brake pedal is nice and firm like the BMW norm, but it takes forever to stop and also lurches when used in force. Interior plastics have gone down to Honda/Toyota levels - tap the console under the CD changer and you will hear lots of clack. Overall, much more plastic and less wood. If you are a typical Mercedes/Audi driver, this 3 series generation will appeal - all the "complaints" from previous generations such as stiff steering, firm ride, etc. are gone with this car. If you're a BMW purist, you will hate this car as much as I did. I have never been happier to turn in my loaner car, to get my real car back!