BMW 3 Series Review: The 320i - Full Review

BMW 3 Series Review: The 320i

Overview

BMW SA have been selling the 3 Series like hot cakes for a long time now. In fact, the BMW 3 Series has been so successful that they’re into the 6th generation of this vehicle. The sales figures alone speak volumes on how popular this car is. It’s the standard issue company car these days, and it’s easy to see why.

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Performance

In the front you’ll find a standard 2.0-litre 4 cylinder engine. What’s not so standard about it is that it produces 135kW and 270Nm of torque. That’s a lot of power and torque coming from a 2.0-litre engine. Starting at R361,000 for the manual version, the BMW 320i is a really good value sedan, that doesn’t lack on the performance scale.

Economy

Overall fuel economy is 6.1 litres per 100km, helped by the standard Eco Pro mode that BMW now use in their entire range. Eco Pro mode helps the car use just the right amount of fuel by actively managing gear changes (in the automatic version) and advising on the ideal gear in the manual version.

Eco Pro also manages the dual climate system to eliminate any wasted fuel used to power the air-conditioning.

Tech

BMW have spared no expense with the technology available in the 320i, despite it being an entry level sedan. The 320i comes with an iDrive system that allows you to control most facets of the car directly from the dash mounted screen. Technology such as start/stop systems, bluetooth integration, and even Internet access is all available for the BMW 320i.

Comfort

BMW have a long history of providing sporty rides with good feedback, and the 320i is no different. The ride feels firm and road feedback is great, but BMW have added the ability for the suspension to go into full comfort mode. With the flick of a switch the car becomes softer and ensures a very comfortable ride.

Inside the cabin you’re treated to all manner of comfort and luxury. Leather seats and a stitched leather steering wheel provide a great tactile experience of luxury.

Practicality

The 320i was built as a mid sized sedan. Rear leg room is good, more than ample for an adult. The 480 litre boot space is respectable in any mid sized sedan, and makes using the car for a family practical. In the front you’ll find the usual assortment of storage compartments and cup holders.

Conclusion

The BMW 320i has been the long standing benchmark for the mid size sedan market. Every other sedan on the market almost immediately gets compared to the 3 Series BMW. With it’s great design and stunning good looks, this 6th generation 3 Series once again sets the benchmark in the sedan market.

It’s a fantastic all round vehicle, comprising good performance, and respectable economy the 320i is an excellent purchase in the sedan market. With such an excellent track record, the 320i is an excellent purchase and will likely hold it’s value very well.