BMW 3 Series 328i 2013 review

Where have they been hiding this little gem? The mid-range 328i replaces the previous 325i sedan and is powered by a turbocharged four instead of a six. Not only is it cheaper than the 325 it’s also more powerful and uses less fuel. What's not to like?

VALUE

Built-in BMW sportiness. Priced from $65,900 standard features include leather, dual-zone climate control, 17 inch alloys, cruise control with brake function, electric front seats with memory function, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity and an MP3 compatible CD audio systems with Auxiliary and USB inputs.

To this the 328i adds the Business Navi and a nine-speaker audio system. Among other things the Sport Line pack adds sports seats and larger 18 inch wheels.

TECHNOLOGY

New 2.0-litre four cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine develops 20kW more power and a whopping 100Nm more torque than its 2.5-litre predecessor at 180kW and 350Nm respectively.

At the same time, combined fuel consumption has been reduced by an incredible 30 per cent to just 6.3 litres/100km. After 500km we were getting between 7.4 and 8.2 litres/100km.

DESIGN

Sound like the perfect compromise, with plenty of power and excellent fuel consumption. The new 3 Series is longer and wider, 93mm longer in fact with a wider track and 50mm longer wheelbase.

That means more room inside, especially in the rear where improved functionality includes a 40/20/40 split folding seat back with folding rear headrests. Boot capacity has also been increased to 480 litres.

SAFETY

Five stars. New 3 Series introduces Active Protection that initiates a range of protective measures if an accident is imminent. In addition, all models are fitted standard with six airbags, and Dynamic Stability Control that includes ABS, Brake Assistant, Cornering Brake Control and Dynamic Traction Control.

DRIVING

Has an aggressive note and responds appropriately when you punch the accelerator, with barely any lag from the twin scroll turbo. Quite quick in fact. Only four tenths slower than the 225kW 335i, at 5.9 secs for 0-100km/h but a whole 1.4 secs faster than the entry 135kW 320i petrol model.

Our test car was fitted with the optional $2200 Adaptive M Suspension which makes a huge difference to the way the car drives and feels. Got to admit we left it in Sport most of the time which keeps traction turned on and avoids any embarrassing spills. You can really feel it lift when Sport is engaged. Hugs the blacktop but moves around a bit on back roads, especially under brakes. 

Also fitted with EfficientDynamics technologies including the standard Auto Stop/Start, Brake Energy Regeneration and ECO PRO mode for the new Driving Experience Control  all of which help to reduce consumption. The new Driving Experience Control offers four drives modes Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and ECO PRO.

VERDICT

Not bad. Not bad at all. Excellent value for money. We'd probably add the eye-candy Sport Line kit and adaptive M suspension as BMW have done for just over four grand. Good combination of power and economy that delivers impressive fuel figures while remaining exciting to drive.

BMW 328i

Price: $65,900
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder, 180kW/350Nm
Transmission: 8-speed auto, RWD
Thirst: 6.3L/100Km, CO2 147g/km