Get behind the wheel of this BMW and you'll think you're driving a hot coup

An estate car that drives like a hot coupe? Believe it - the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series M Sport Touring delivers nothing less - even with a diesel engine.

The size and boot area layout means it isn't strictly a car for cargo, but more for the small family and various weekend pursuits. It will cope with anything from wet, muddy boots to skis without compromising comfort.

The big oil-burner chugs out 231bhp from six cylinders. It's got tow-anything torque, and muscle enough to see it to 62mph from zero in just under seven seconds and up to a top speed of 153mph.

The Touring's precise on-road responses, enhanced by tweaked suspension and the more predictable rear-wheel drive, make it a pleasure to drive. The looks don't let the side down, either.

The cabin is highly functional, and a tad more practical than previous models -- and even rear passengers' leg room has been upped, albeit just a little.

There's lots of standard equipment in there, backed-up by the market's best safety and security fitments, plus plenty of optional extras to go for.

All said, this is an estate range that's well ahead of the opposition, but you've got to remember that the prices are, too.