This has been an entertaining thread. I'm assuming (based on previous forum discussions that the majority of these base 3 series cars are leased rather than purchased outright. Actually, this may apply to all 3-series - but I suspect the base models would have a higher leasing percentage. Anyone have info on lease vs purchase data? If that's actually the case, the MSRP is somewhat meaningless for the shoppers who are only worried about lease payments, and not actual cost of the vehicle. But just a hypothesis.
And I don't mind BMW milking their customers for every penny, that's what "luxury" brands are supposed to do. Few would argue that luxury brands are supposed to be good value, part of the inflated price is supposed to ensure exclusivity (of course, that doesn't seem to be the case when every third vehicle seems to be a BMW these days...) The metallic paint surcharge does bother me though, especially if there are no "free" (non-metallic) colour options. If you have to pay for it, it isn't an "option" anymore! Wasn't that the case on a recent Audi? Or was it BMW?