Now that the winners of our annual Top 12 Best Buys awards have been revealed (grab a copy of the April 2021 issue of CAR magazine for the full article), we can take a look at the individual categories.
So, which vehicle won in the premium midsize car segment? Well, the G20-generation BMW 3 Series sedan claimed the award.
One of the broader categories, this one encompasses the German Big Three and their respective offshoots, plus cars from other European and Asian manufacturers. Anything below A6, 5 Series and E-Class in terms of size and price, then.
One of the few unanimous votes from the CAR team ensures a second consecutive win for BMW. Like the models before it, it’s safe to say the 3 Series defines the segment with its incredible breadth of ability. Engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics, a wonderfully finished and pleasingly spacious cabin, and a wide scope of performance to suit customer needs makes it the class of the field.
In fact, it netted the highest score for all the vehicles we considered in the 2021 competition. The range has grown since 2020’s victory, with the addition of six-cylinder M340i xDrive and 330d models, as well as an entry-level 318i. It’s a pity buyers are shunning sedans in favour of crossovers … but that doesn’t make the BMW 3 Series any less deserving of praise.
