There's a wide choice of engines for the 3 Series Coupe and all provide ample power and pace – from the 168bhp 320i four-cylinder to the twin-turbo, 302bhp 335i, which goes like a rocket. In between, there are the 325i (215bhp) and six-cylinder 330i (268bhp) petrol engines and 320d (174bhp), 325d (194bhp) and 330d (228bhp) diesels. Transmission options are a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed auto with sequential-shift function and paddleshifts.

The 3 Series Coupe shares its underpinnings with the saloon and has a similarly accomplished drive. The ride is firm - particularly on the 19-inch wheels - but the pay-off is outstanding grip and composure. Even the twistiest roads are tackled without drama, and the steering provides reassuring weight and feel. BMW's Active Steering is a pricey and unnecessary option.

Although the Coupe's frameless side windows create a little more wind noise than there is in the saloon, the 3 Series Coupe's cabin is quiet. Road-, suspension- and wind noise are all very well isolated, while engine noise on the versions we drove was desirable rather than intrusive. The manual gearshift requires precise timing and a deft touch, otherwise it can be clunky, especially at low speed. The autos are smooth, however.

The 3 Series Coupe won't cost much more to run than the saloon, which means sensible running costs across the board. Even the 335i returns nearly 30mpg and falls three categories short of the maximum company car tax banding, while the diesels are impressively clean and frugal. We expect residual values will be excellent, too.

The 3 Series Coupe is expensive, but it has the quality to back up its price tag. Everything you touch has a thoroughly engineered, built-to-last feel, while the materials used have an appealing look and feel. BMWs have a reputation for mechanical solidity, and this model shouldn't do anything to damage it.

Like every 3 Series model, the Coupe comes brimming with safety kit. Front, side and curtain airbags are standard, as are stability control and run-flat tyres. The anti-lock brake system even incorporates a function that uses gentle pressure to keep the brake discs dry in the wet. Deadlocks are fitted as standard to make things more difficult for thieves.

A huge range of adjustment for the seat and steering wheel means it's easy for all drivers to make themselves comfortable, while the driving position is excellent. As with the 3 Series saloon, the dash is simple and clearly laid out, but if you go for the optional satellite-navigation system, you have to put up with BMW's fiddly iDrive controller.

The 3 Series is a genuine four-seater, with ample legroom for four tall adults. Rear headroom for taller passengers may feel slightly tight, but the BMW does far better on this score than its main rivals. The boot is a generous size, though the wheelarches intrude and the load entrance is on the small side.

Basic SE models have 17-inch alloys, cruise control, rear parking sensors, climate control, a CD player with MP3 input, front electric windows, powered/heated door mirrors and more. To this, the Highline package adds leather upholstery and 18-inch alloys. M Sport versions have different 18-inch wheels, cloth/Alcantara upholstery, sports suspension, body kit and ‘shadowline’ exterior details.