BMW 318ti 2002 Review

The new body shape is a vast improvement on the old model, which was accused of being just a 3 Series chopped in the butt. The bold new styling gives this car it's own character, and we like it, though the clear cover taillights are an acquired taste. All Compact models are equipped with 8 airbags which include occupancy detection.

Gone are the days when the BMW's badging represented the engine capacity. As the cubes increase, few model names have remained consistent with their predecessors. In this case the 318ti is actually powered by a 105kW 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine equipped with BMW's new Valvetronic technology. (Variable opening of the inlet valves replaces the need for the throttle butterfly, allowing the engine to breathe more efficiently.) What does this mean? Increased torque, lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions.

The 318ti is not a hot-hatch in terms of performance figures (BMW claims 0-100km/h in 10.8 for the Steptronic), but certainly adequate enough for town and country cruising, even in automatic form.

If you're looking for something quicker again, BMW launches the 141kW 325ti Compact in May 2002 - that will definitely pack a punch!

The Steptronic automatic gearbox takes a little of the monotony out of driving an automatic, with more response in sequential manual mode. Like any automatic gearbox, it'll kick-down if you need a little more oomph in a hurry - just don't expect it to be instant. The chassis and BMW sports suspension is from the 3 Series sedan/coupe, retuned to suit the smaller body.

On the road, all this combines for a quiet and confident ride, firm, but not teeth-jarringly so. The steering wheel returns a precise feel through the corners and doesn't jump out of your hands over bumps, potholes or tramtracks. Brakes are typical BMW…very efficient.

Even though the external dimensions of the car aren't much shorter than its bigger 3 Series brother, the Compact feels much smaller in a snug, rather than uncomfortable, kinda way. Dare I say, "Compact"!

If you want to potter around town with the occasional trip up-country, this car is fine for you. However, if you really want to drive the car, then Steptronic needs a real work-out to get the best out of the engine. The 105kW engine is respectable for this size car, but really works hard to motivate the 1420kg BMW.

BMW's reputation for quality is clearly evident in the 318ti. The interior design apes the larger 3 Series' impressive ergonomics, though I do miss the cup holders - simple but convenient. Headroom and legroom are surprisingly good in the back where a six-foot person can comfortably sit up straight, even with the sliding glass-sunroof taking up ceiling space.

The rear seat headrests can be tilted down so they don't block driver's rear vision when not in use. Another handy feature is the remote hatch release - just watch for height clearance as the fully opened hatch has a high swing.