BMW 3 Series
Rs. 28,90,000 to Rs. 65,85,022 (ex showroom delhi)
BMW 3 Series Review
BMW introduces one more petrol variant in 3 Series
May 11, 2016: German car maker BMW has enhanced its petrol engine line-up with introduction of more engine configuration to be named as 320i. It has been offered in two versions namely prestige version and Luxury Line version offered with price tag of Rs. Rs. 36.90 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi) and Rs. 42.70 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi) respectively. It is empowered with 2.0 litre, 4 cylinder, twin turbocharged engine that will generate the power of 184 bhp and torque of 270 Nm and mated with eight speed automatic transmission system followed by presence of paddle shifters in Luxury Line version.
BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport Line launched in Indian car market
June 10, 2015: BMW India, the Indian alliance of German car maker BMW has enhanced the line up of its 3 Series Gran Turismo in Indian car market by launching Sports Variant in its line up with starting price of Rs. 39.90 lakh (ex-showroom price, New Delhi). Continuing the existing engine configuration as offered in 320d GT it is empowered 2.0 litre diesel engine generating the power of 184 bhp at 4,000 rpm and torque of 380 Nm at rpm varying between 1,750 and 2,750. The engine is mated with 8 speed Steptronic automatic gearbox. The exteriors and interiors of this Sport Line variant are bestowed with dynamic features that give this version a fascinating and luxurious look.
Units of BMW 3 Series to be recalled by BMW
July 18, 2014: It is reported that German car maker is recalling units of 3 Series manufactured between May 1999 and August 2006 from global market due to faulty side airbags. According to sources of company although there have not been any reports received so far regarding any issue arising in these units due to airbag. But this recall has been taken as a preventive measure to offer complete safe driving experience to the owners of BMW 3 Series.
BMW 3 Series Review by Expert
The BMW 3 Series compact sedan is been produced by the Germany based premium carmaker BMW. It all started in the year 1975 when first 3 Series sedan was introduced to the world. The 3 Series was basically a descendant to the long running ‘BMW New Class’ range of sedans that flourished between the years 1962 to 1976. Since the debut in 1975, the 3 series sedan has seen as many as 5 generations, while the 6th generation BMW 3 series is about to hit the showrooms on 27 July 2012 in India, although it is already launched in different auto markets worldwide. The BMW 3 Series sedan models are the best selling ones and account for 30%-40% of annual sales in the lineup.
The upcoming 2012 BMW 3 Series will not only be a pure luxury inside but also offer some improved performance dynamics. There will be host of trims offered to choose from with the New BMW 3 Series and that includes Sport Line, Luxury Line and Luxury Plus together with standard model. The likes of Audi A4 and Mercedes Benz C Class will definitely get propelled with the launch of all-new BMW 3 Series.
The exteriors are now better looking with some extra edges flowing at the bonnet. The front is now more imposing than ever as it has got more powerful headlamps and more muscular looking bumper. The side profile is stylish this time along with better aero dynamics of sportiness, moreover at the rear part; it has got reworked tail lamps for better appearance. The overall exterior dimensions seem wide in this New BMW 3 Series, as the front and rear has got broader headlamps and tail lamps that make it look bigger than predecessor.
The Interiors of New BMW 3 Series will be more luxurious, more spacious this time along with some contemporary gadgets inside the cabin. There will be more and more leather inserts; be it on the seats for occupants or on the steering for the driver. There will be ideal headroom, legroom and shoulder room for all 5 passengers in the New BMW 3 Series. Here the infotainment system will also hold some exciting aspects to keep you engaged throughout the journey. Moreover, for the safety of occupants there are more than sufficient advanced active and passive safety features. On the engine front it will boast a variety of performance driven efficient motors that not only touch higher power and torque numbers but also assure some real fuel economical figures.
New BMW 3 Series Rivals
The newly launched New BMW 3 Series has immediately entered into the war with its German rival Audi A4 sedan in India. Both these premium class vehicles boast some extraordinary features and capabilities providing a tough fight within. The New A4 was launched in May’2012 and at that point of time it was looking better in the segment, but story isn’t the same after 2012 BMW 3 Series launch. The BMW sedan that was earlier more inclined towards classiness has now revived itself to being sporty.
However on the other side Audi A4 still looks bulky with its king-size image. The interiors of A4 are truly lavish along with being up market and packed with latest equipments, whereas same goes for 3 Series too. Here BMW with its advanced gadgetry takes the cake away. The two superlative sedans are available with choice of petrol and diesel power-trains across their lineup in India. The A4 has in all 5 models with 3 of petrol and 2 of diesel variants. Here BMW 3 Series has got a clever combination with solo petrol model and 4 variants of in-demand diesel versions. Another notable factor is that all the models of 3 Series are loaded with lighter 2.0L engines unlike heavy-duty 3.0L and 3.2L with A4. On the fuel efficiency part too, BMW 3 Series defeats Audi A4 by miles as it offers some amazing numbers on both the fuel alternatives.
| New BMW 3 Series Rivals | |||||
| Model | Engine CC | Mileage (City/Highway) | Acceleration (0-100 kph) | Unique features | Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) |
| BMW 3 Series Petrol | 1997 | 10.5 kmpl/ 14.7 kmpl | 6.1 seconds | Sporty Looks, Interior features, Practicality | Rs 31.50 Lakh |
| BMW 3 Series Diesel | 1995 | 14 kmpl/ 18.8 kmpl | 7.6 seconds | Rs 29.90 Lakh | |
| Audi A4 Petrol | 1984 | 8.3 kmpl/ 12.7 kmpl | 8.6 seconds | Premium Saloon, Space, Choice of above 3.0L engine | Rs 27.69 Lakh |
| Audi A4 Diesel | 1968 | 10.4 kmpl/ 14.44 kmpl | 9.4 seconds | Rs 29.64 Lakh | |
| Mercedes Benz C Class Petrol | 1796 | 5 kmpl/ 9 kmpl | 8.6 seconds | Optimum Safety, Powerful variants, Comfort | Rs 30.27 Lakh |
| Mercedes Benz C Class Diesel | 2143 | 6 kmpl/ 10 kmpl | 9.3 seconds | Rs 28.56 Lakh | |
BMW 3 Series Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The touch of perfection and comfort now carries newer heights, the New BMW 3 Series sedan also takes care that it delivers a mileage of great repute this time. However, nobody would ask how much it delivers if it is a BMW car, but now everyone has the same curiosity, since it is so good at it. The 2012 BMW 3 Series sedan has got a more than perfect amalgamation of performance and economy. Starting with solo petrol powered 328i sedan that has a 1997cc petrol engine under its broad it delivers good 10.5 kmpl in city and 14.7 kmpl on the highways. Whereas the rest four, which are diesel models, give out a whopping mileage of 18.8 kmpl on the longer routes besides providing 14.0 kmpl in city drives. These diesel engines are powered by a 2.0L, 1995cc power-train.| Engine Type | Mileage (City) | Mileage (Highway) |
| BMW 3 Series 320d Diesel | 14.0 kmpl | 18.8 kmpl |
| BMW 3 Series 328i Petrol | 10.5 kmpl | 14.7 kmpl |
BMW 3 Series Models and Features
| Variants | Features |
| BMW 3 Series 320d | The base version features includes two zone Auto climate control, electric seats with memory function and Start Stop With keyless engine start along with USB connectivity. More aspects comprise of dynamic stability control and dynamic traction control, Run flat tyres and sensatec black or veneto beige fabric used alongside 16 inch alloy wheels for that solid stance. |
| BMW 3 Series 320d Sport Line | This version of BMW 3 Series comes loaded with features such as multifunctional leather steering wheel, cornering brake control, electronic immobilizer and crash sensor together with interior and exterior mirror with automatic anti-glare function. Some other elements are rear park distance control and innovative I-Drive with 16.5cm color display besides all the features of the base version. |
| BMW 3 Series 328i Sport Line | This version incorporates rear view camera, BMW navigation system with 22.3 cms display, music interface for smart phone and electrical glass roof alongside head display. Furthermore, other exciting features comprise of front and rear park distance control and xenon headlamps with low and high beam along with head lamp washing mechanism as well as LED light rings. |
| BMW 3 Series 320d Luxury Line | The luxury line incorporates many of the similar features as seen in the sport line version, while the others include Dakota leather with exclusive stitching, hands- free facility with USB interface along with I-Drive controller with direct menu controls buttons and fine wood trim with accent trim on pearl gloss chrome etc. |
| BMW 3 Series 320d Luxury Plus | The super exciting variant of BMW 3 Series consists of leather steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity and BMW apps, Dakota leather saddle brown with exclusive stitch and rear view camera. Additional features include HI-FI Loudspeaker system and 17-inch aluminium wheels with multi-spoke styling. Nonetheless, the other aspects are same as found in the mid variant of BMW 3 Series. |
BMW 3 Series Engine, Power and Performance
The Ultimat3 BMW 3 Series sedan is available this time with a strategic line up, with more focus on the diesel enthusiasts of the country. There are in all 5 variants, out of which 4 are diesel and one is petrol. There is BMW 320d, BMW 320d Sports Line, BMW 320d Luxury Line and BMW 320d Luxury Plus as diesel models in the array, while lone BMW 328i Sports Line stands as petrol variant.
The sole BMW 3 Series 328i petrol variant has got a 2.0L, 1997cc Twin-Power 4-cylinder and 4-valve engine. This petrol engine is a sort of jack-of-all-traits, since it holds all the qualities of a performance oriented mill alongside being lighter on the pockets too with its never-seen-before mileage numbers. This engine yields a maximum power of 245 PS at 5000-6500 rpm, and this hefty power is joined by some meaty torque figures of 350 Nm 1250-4800 rpm. This engine comes mated to an 8-speed servotronic Sport Automatic Transmission (AT). In addition this version also incorporates Variable Sports Steering.
The diesel versions are powered by a 2.0L, 1995cc 4-cylinder and 4-valve twin-turbocharged engine that is capable of churning out 184 PS of proper power at 4000 rpm along with peak torque of 380 Nm at 1750-2750 rpm. The power smoked here out of this 2.0L motor is just unimaginable and a hefty 380 Nm is enough to blow away your mind. Like the petrol version this BMW 3 Series engine is also coupled with 8-speed servotronic automatic gearbox.
BMW 3 Series Pickup and Acceleration
The Ultimat3, BMW 3 Series sedans are truly fuel efficient, but no way comprise on the acceleration and pickup part. The quick turnaround time (0-100 kph) and thrilling top speed digits are just breath taking for this new BMW 3 Series. The petrol version, which is basically the 328i Sport Line model, with 1997 cc engine displacement churning out 245 PS and 350 Nm torque is capable to attain a top speed of 250 kmph, well if that’s not enough to raise eyebrows bow about catching up a 0-100 kph in mere 6.1 seconds. Yes, that’s what you call a BMW 3 Series ‘Sports Line’.
On the other side is the dominated diesel engine of the New BMW 3 Series sedan that outpours a mighty power of 184 PS and a neat 380 Nm of torque. This powerful and dynamic diesel version comes out with an outstanding top speed of 235 kmph. Additionally, the distance from being stationery to attaining 100 kph destination is done in real less time of 7.6 seconds that is a bit less racier than that of petrol edition. But it is compensated by giving out superior fuel economy figures.
| New BMW 3 Series Pickup and Acceleration | |||||
| Engine Variants | Power (PS/ RPM) | Torque (NM/ RPM) | Acceleration (0-100kph) | Top Speed (Km/ h) | Transmission |
| BMW 3 Series 2.0L 328i Petrol | 245/ 5000-65000 | 350/ 1250-4800 | 6.1 seconds | 250 | 8-speed Automatic |
| BMW 3 Series 2.0L 320d Diesel | 184/ 4000 | 380/ 1750-2750 | 7.6 seconds | 235 | 8-speed Automatic |
BMW 3 Series Interiors and Features
The Ultimat3 sedan is truly ultimate in every aspect. With the New BMW 3 Series, the spacious interiors of this sedan are all revived and enhanced to provide it a more contemporary feel to the occupants in the cozy cabin. The wider stance and longer wheelbase of the outer surface actually results in some great room inside the compartment. The latest equipments and advanced gadgetry has always been a salient part of the BMW vehicles and this New 3 Series in no different.
Some of the new arrivals in the New BMW 3 Series sedan are BMW i-Drive, the on-board Driver Information System that comes with a 6.5-inch screen and BMW Radio Professional as standard. The advanced integrated Global Positioning System-GPS has an 8.8-inch high-resolution display. There is also a rear-view camera along with color Head-up display that screens driving information straight into the driver’s vision. The superlative looking dashboard of New BMW 3 Series continues to mesmerize with many storage spaces along with central console that houses some exclusive gadgetry for instance BMW Apps to connect your smart phone. There is Hi-Fi Loudspeaker system, USB interface, CD drive and 6 programmable memory buttons besides i-Drive Controller with direct menu control buttons for extreme convenience.
The New BMW 3 Series instrument cluster has got a clear view to the driver, while the leather wrapped steering wheel has got numerous controls, be it phone or audio or even Bluetooth, all can be accessed uninterruptedly with ease. The automatic AC comes with dual zone controls, whereas the exquisite electric glass roof, which is only offered with 328i Sports Line looks fantastic. Driver’s seat that is electrically adjustable comes with memory function alongside rear view camera for handiness. Moreover there are abundance of storage spaces at front and rear of New BMW 3 Series sedan together with a range of Dakota leather upholstery available with exclusive stitching as per your choice.
BMW 3 Series Exterior and Features
Since the early 70’s the BMW 3 Series has evolved in every aspect and one of the most significant has been its elegant looking exteriors every time. This new 6th generation BMW 3 Series sedan has got the most appropriate make-over in the recent times, keeping in mind the competitors. Although there are always pretty few amends to the frontage, but this time the changes are more commendable than the earlier. Previously it was more inclined towards the bold statement, however currently it’s more focused on flaunting Sporty attitude.
The exteriors of the New BMW 3 Series sedan are of such stature that wherever this new sedan will move it will immediately catch the eye of the onlookers because of its sophisticated yet sporty appeal. The front has angular Xenon head lamps with low and high intensity beam function, these headlamps are now more angular and are seen touching the chrome edged signature grille of the 2012 BMW 3 Series. The character lines at the bonnet are more visible this time that are sweeping towards the headlamps bestowing an aggressive posture. The front bumper is restyled with clear fog lamps providing an impressive image.
The side profile has mounted turn indicators on the sleek ORVMs, which are automatic with anti-glare function. The blacked pillars along with slightly pronounced wheel arches together provide a comprehensive look from the sides. There is optional 16-inch, 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels that make it appear firm on the ground with raring to go approach. The rear has new and wide boot lid with increased boot space, while the tail lamps are a bit edgy this time in order to proffer a sporty figure. Furthermore there is chrome tipped twin exhaust pipes at one end of the rear bumper to unleash that racy instinct in you.
BMW 3 Series Driving and Handling
With the happening New BMW 3 Series, the handling has improved a bit against the predecessor it is now more agile and refined along with being remarkable drivability. The suspension is more active this time and rear passengers can get along the way cheerfully, when it comes to bumpy and potholed rides. At times one can sense a little body-roll coming into frame especially at lower speeds and at the time of cutting corners in the city conditions. But with smoother drivability, responsiveness and refinement oozing out, one forgets these petty issues. Also the firm acceleration and apt braking play a bigger role in the BMW 3 Series handling. The sole petrol engine is exceptionally smooth, while minor sound can be heard when it comes to diesel powertrains at lower revs. Inside the cabin, the NVH levels are all in control and occupants never get disturbed by the outside on-road noise. On the whole, BMW 3 Series is one the most athletic yet easy-going sedan in its class.
Safety Features in BMW 3 Series
The sporty New BMW 3 Series is not only a ripper with its performance this time, but also safer when compared to its predecessor and rivals in the segment. The safety aspects of the sedan include front and curtain airbags alongside side airbags for driver and passenger, Anti Lock Brake System (ABS) with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC). The other BMW 3 Series safety features consist of advanced engine immobilizer and crash sensor, while some standard features are side impact protection, Run-flat indicator and tyres besides ergonomic belt system at the rear, with three-point seatbelts for all occupants.
BMW 3 Series Conclusion
The launch of BMW 3 Series is taken with loads of appreciation in the country. There are pretty rare cases when the petrol version is priced above the diesel variants and that too when the displacement is identical. The introduction of 4 diesel powered variant together with 1 petrol version, reflects the core strategy of the management at BMW, as far as India lineup is concerned. The soaring petrol prices have not only made the mass segment vehicle buyers bleed but also elite class of ‘BMW’ consumers raise eyebrows. Noteworthy point at this juncture is that, it has pasted a smile on the faces of the premium buyers with its beyond belief fuel economy of the BMW 3 Series. Here the German auto mogul has opened delight-gates for the fuel conscious consumers as well as for the sporty-vehicle enthusiasts in India. As on one side it offers a premium class of luxury and refinement, while on the other end is the petrol Sport Line trim that is entirely a different product when it comes to acceleration, power and performance. The move is just perfect and will definitely extract some really encouraging results in the coming times with rivals like Audi A4 and Mercedes Benz C Class getting annoyed every passing day looking at the vertical sales numbers of 2012 BMW 3 Series.
BMW 3 Series Variants
Write ReviewBMW 3 Series Petrol
Price (ex showroom)
Engine Details
Mileage
Special Features
Compare
35,01,552
Get On Road Price
1997 cc , Petrol
6.8 kmpl (City)
9.5 kmpl (Highway)
*Xenon Headlamps
*iDrive system
*Parking Sensor + Camera
*18 inches Alloy wheels
*6 Airbags
*HiFi Loudspeaker system
*Electronic Stability Control
BMW 3 Series Diesel
Price (ex showroom)
Engine Details
Mileage
Special Features
Compare
28,90,000
Get On Road Price
1995 cc , Diesel
14.0 kmpl (City)
18.8 kmpl (Highway)
*Auto Start/Stop Function
*A.B.S.+E.B.D.+B.A.
*6 Airbags (Front+Rear+Side)
*Electronic Stability Control
32,18,441
Get On Road Price
1995 cc , Diesel
14.0 kmpl (City)
18.8 kmpl (Highway)
*Xenon Headlamps
*Sport Entry Doorsills
*17"Sporty Alloy Wheel
*Dual Front Sport Seats
*6 Airbags
*HiFi loudspeaker system
35,11,287
Get On Road Price
1995 cc , Diesel
14.0 kmpl (City)
18.8 kmpl (Highway)
*Pearl Gloss Chrome Key
*17"Luxury Aluminium wheels
*11 Slats Chrome Kidney Grille
*iDrive with 16.5cm Display
37,96,346
Get On Road Price
1995 cc , Diesel
14.0 kmpl (City)
18.8 kmpl (Highway)
*Pearl Gloss Chrome Key
*Stylish Alloy Wheels
*Stylish Chorme Lines
*BMW Head-Up Display
65,85,022
Get On Road Price
2993 cc , Diesel
11.0 kmpl (City)
14.0 kmpl (Highway)
*Removable/Convertible Top
*Runflat indicator
*Roll-over Bars
*Music interface for Smartphone
