July 07, 2017: Find out more about impact of GST on3 Series prices.
In May, 2017, BMW discontinued the 320i moniker from the portfolio. Instead, the company introduced the 330i in two variants - the Sport Line and the M Sport. Powering both the variants of the 330i is the the same petrol engine that does duty in the BMW 330i GT. It is a 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces 252PS of power and 350Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled by an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic gearbox and power is sent to the rear wheels only. Like the engine, this transmission is also borrowed from the 330i GT. The setup is enough for the sedan to hit 100kmph from a standstill in 5.8 seconds.
Differences between the two variants of the 330i, are few at best. For instance, the Sport Line gets a car key with red trim and a sport leather steering with red stitching. The M Sport, on the other hand, gets its own set of styling cues including a car key with M logo, M logo on front wings and M Sport leather steering wheel. In terms of features, the M Sport gets a full-colour head-up display, front and rear park distance control, 18-inch alloy wheels and a choice of three different dual-tone upholstery options. The Sport Line variant gets rear park distance control, 17-inch alloy wheels and a choice between two dual-tone upholstery trims.
Its main list of rivals includes the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar XE, Audi A4 and the Volvo S60.
First and foremost, this is a facelift of the BMW 3-series GT, perhaps the most underrated of the Bavarian brand's models in India. It's got as much rear legroom than a 5-series thanks to its near-three-metre wheelbase, and luggage space to rival BMW's X SUVs and with a price that's not too much high. The new bumpers, front and rear, adaptive full-LED headlamps, reprofiled LED taillamps, new alloy wheel designs, classier interior trims, a bit more equipment and the newest version read more 2
Look and Style - By far the most modern looking BMW. It looks meaner and sportier than the outgoing 5th generation 3 series. Especially, the corona rings (LED) are a treat to watch.
Comfort - I must admit, after having driven a 5th generation 3-series in the US, I was worried about the ride quality for rear-passengers. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find the latest generation BMW sold in India is very well-adapted for Indian conditions. Most imperfections of the Indian roads are absor read more 15
Superb handling, response and performance, good fuel economy, stylish design, useful features. One of the best commercially produced diesel engines. awesome looks, awesome performance, super features and very responsive car with spot on handling. Very comfortable handling even beyond 150 kmph , Very good looks , Parking assistance through iDrive. everything abt this car is good, u dont feel like going home when u drive this baby. Best-in-class handling, instant throttle response, superb seats, I read more 0
The 3 Series has been among BMW India’s best sellers in the country. The previous generation (E90) kicked off the Bavarian automaker’s innings in India and quickly catapulted it to the top of the sales charts in the luxury space. It was only six years later - in 2012 - that BMW introduced the new generation of the 3 Series. BMW hasn’t reinvented the wheel with the new 3, they’ve simply tweaked the recipe to make it better. Have they succeeded?
Things We Like in 3 Series
Silky smooth petrol motor has enough grunt to keep you happy.
Torquey diesel engine loves to be pushed hard. Can be quite fun to drive!
Ride quality. Surprisingly forgiving for daily commutes, just about there for spirited driving.
Shifts from the 8-speed ZF gearbox are lightning quick.
Things We Don't Like in 3 Series
Rear seat has average legroom and headroom. Best to be in the driver’s seat.
Petrol variants priced on par with the diesel. Does not justify the price tag.
Stand Out Features
The M Sport variant adds a sporty character to the already fun diesel 3 Series.
CarDekho Verdict
Among the barrage of options in the entry-level luxury car space, the BMW 3 Series is the one to pick if you enjoy driving more than anything else. It has the right blend of features, quality and space - but the driving dynamics outshine its immediate rivals by a considerable margin.
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