2011 BMW 3 Series 328i xDrive

The 3 Series is BMW's compact luxury sedan, offered this year as a sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible. It's the benchmark against which the Audi A4 and Mercedes C-Class are measured. The steering feels direct and the chassis is eager, making it a joy on a twisty road. The ride is firm but compliant, a fair trade for the sharp handling. The 328i xDrive trades the 335i's extra punch and, in the sedan, a dose of steering feedback for the security of all-wheel drive and a lower starting price. With a smooth six-cylinder 3.0L I6 making 230 horsepower, a six-speed manual, and all-wheel drive, it's the one to pick if you need year-round traction without giving up the sedan's balance. Expect roughly 20 mpg combined in mixed driving, which is average for the era, and a ride that's slightly softer than the rear-drive cars over rough pavement.