Rolling update .....
The dealer has passed the issues onto BMWUK and Germany and are/have sent and engineer to Bracknell to discuss it. Apparently this is a unique issue which my usual skepticism actually believes.
As a result of all this the parents have been able to try a wide-spread of courtesy cars. Their thoughts so far:
3-series saloon/touring - B-pillar too far forwards completely blocks over-shoulder view creating an unnecessary blind-spot. Dad immediately ruled them out for purchase on a safety basis.
1-series coupe - Surprisingly practical but also surprisingly big and heavy. Decent drive though.
3-series coupe - If they were replacing the Golf this would be high on the list. Comfy, good looking, much more practical than saloon (split-fold rear seats) and no stupid b-pillar.
X3 - Heavy so generally comfy across small ruts and bumps. Bigger road surface issues upset it alot though suggesting it's overly stiff to compensate for the height and weight. 2.0d engine is quick even in a car heavier than the 5-series touring and still returns 38mpg.
They still prefer the 5-series
