It's more fun with three

摘要

Daniel Attwood drives the latest BMW 3 Series and discovers that the compact executive sector, which is already one of the most advanced in terms of driving dynamics, just got a whole lot better. When a manufacturer produces a car that becomes the benchmark in its sector, it sets itself up for a serious problem when it comes to designing its successor. After all, how does one improve on the best? Take the Ford Focus: the original was the best in class and topped the sales charts year on year. Even when its successor was introduced late last year, the outgoing model was still one of Ireland's top selling cars. Now the second generation Focus is on the road and, although still among those setting the standards in terms of handling, Ford's designers clearly lost their nerve and opted for a staid, uninspiring exterior. The Focus may be superb on the road but it is no longer superb to observe.