Advice needed on purchasing a 318i e46 Touring*

[FHM]

Looking at trading the wife's (very compact) mk1 Audi TT for something a bit more spacious. It's fairly urgent and should've given it a bit more thought but who better than on this here forum, lol.
Its a facelift '03 blue touring, grey leather. Stock mechanicals.

So: Pro's vs Con's
Known Problem areas?
Things to look out for?
Maintenance? Etc etc..

Any advice as I've never owned one of these, Thanks!
:ty:

 

[nirvash]

i think the best advice would be to go for one of the 6 cylinder models, more power with similar if not better economy,

i have seen quite a few 325iT on gumtree lately,

good luck with the search

 

[Gizmo]

318i is problematic to say the least, their parts cost more than 325i parts too.
The M54 in the 325i is bullet proof. You want the 325i touring, nothing less.