BMW E90 330i Touring

[Donatello]

I see not many of these are about as the engine has been discontinued? Quite disappointed as we are going to be looking for an estate soon and don't do more than 12k a year so the petrol seemed fine for me.

Need an estate for our two dogs but loved the 330i. Any similar alternatives that could offer a good amount of fun and reasonable running costs?

[Donatello]

Thanks for the help guys. I have been looking at used vehicles. Not 100% sure on budget as don't know exactly when we will be buying.

Didn't realise they were E90/91/92/93 for that reason, just thought it was maybe face-lift versions. Learn something new everyday.

I was originally looking at big diesel estates and after a little calculation based on approx figures, the 330i was fine.

I like the idea of a pacey estate that in all fairness is quite economical.

[Donatello]

I certainly don't hate diesels. I was looking at the 320d and the 330d touring recently, only thing that bothers me is the tendancy for higher mileage with diesels at high prices (I understand why as it is all about demand).

Once I looked at economy and did some rubbish maths with our mileage, I decided to mention to the other half that a 330i would be alright on fuel so we should look.

The search will go on. Any alternatives people would recommend to the 330i or 335i touring? (I think the 335i would be difficult as it is newer/slightly more expensive and mostly automatic? I want manual!)

[Donatello]

Are most of the reliability issues covered under a decent warranty? I would probably take one out against a higher value car.

[Donatello]

Anyone know if a bought warranty is worth it? Will it cover the common reliability issues?

Also, any recommendations for a rival/alternative to the 330i/330d touring?