BMW 3 Series 328i (A) First Drive Review
22 Dec 2011|35,390 views
Although BMW first introduced its 3 Series, codenamed E21, in 1975, it was only in the early 90s when the car started bagging countless awards - probably even more than successful football club, Manchester United. And this success went on further in 2007 when the 3.0-litre twin turbo engine, which is found in the BMW 335i, won the International Engine of the Year Awards. Thus, to retain its impressive line of success of the Bavarian company's most important car, BMW went another notch higher with its sixth generation 3 Series, codenamed F30.
There was a time when most carmakers built cars that had a lot of soul in them. Nowadays, the advancement of technology means it doesn't take a whole lot of talent or training to make a good car. So it's really refreshing when a car such as the F30 comes along. While driving on a track such as the Circuit de Catalunya may be hard to fault most cars (since cars can be thrown with reckless abandon on tracks), the latest 3 Series excelled on the twisty roads of bubbly Barcelona.
For the fact that BMW has sold over 12.5 million 3 Series since 1975, it simply meant that they aren't going to get this successful recipe off beam by choking the pipes or making drastic changes all of a sudden. Drastic change said, the predictable 3 Series isn't exactly predictable.
Exterior
The car's signature kidney grille and headlamps are widened to the point of touching. It may not keep some boats afloat but it sure will appeal to many. In fact, we reckon the 3er looks better than any of the other models in the lineup (the 6er is a close second), with awkward-looking fascias and bulky add-ons missing - just the way a compact sports sedan should look. One of the best things about the F30 is that it has this endorphin-inducing effect - you just can't help but feel good after looking at it - without coming off as sugary or the slightest bit cheesy.
There was a time when most carmakers built cars that had a lot of soul in them. Nowadays, the advancement of technology means it doesn't take a whole lot of talent or training to make a good car. So it's really refreshing when a car such as the F30 comes along. While driving on a track such as the Circuit de Catalunya may be hard to fault most cars (since cars can be thrown with reckless abandon on tracks), the latest 3 Series excelled on the twisty roads of bubbly Barcelona.
For the fact that BMW has sold over 12.5 million 3 Series since 1975, it simply meant that they aren't going to get this successful recipe off beam by choking the pipes or making drastic changes all of a sudden. Drastic change said, the predictable 3 Series isn't exactly predictable.
Exterior
The car's signature kidney grille and headlamps are widened to the point of touching. It may not keep some boats afloat but it sure will appeal to many. In fact, we reckon the 3er looks better than any of the other models in the lineup (the 6er is a close second), with awkward-looking fascias and bulky add-ons missing - just the way a compact sports sedan should look. One of the best things about the F30 is that it has this endorphin-inducing effect - you just can't help but feel good after looking at it - without coming off as sugary or the slightest bit cheesy.
 |
Besides being longer and wider than its predecessor, the latest 3 is also lighter by 40kg, thanks to the extensive use of extra-lightweight chassis components and the new generation of light but no less powerful engine. It may come as no surprise to some, but considering that the car is longer, roomier and has a bigger footprint (front + 37 mm, rear + 47 mm) as compared to the E90, the F30 represents progress that deserves salutation.
There are some changes to the rear of the car too. The butt now sees through a pair of dazzling BMW L-shaped design tail lamps, giving the car the somewhat needed visual emphasis and road presence.
Available in three variants - Sport, Modern and Luxury - the Melbourne Red car that you see here is the Sport version. Fitted with the optional 19 inch rims, this sleek and elegant 3 Series looks the part of its current family and it is a big step to the right direction.
 |
Interior
Towards the course of improvement is also its interior, where it leaps ahead of its predecessor in terms of visual appeal. Drivers will now be faced with a number of new gadgets as well as a fresh instrument panel, with a warm orange glow to the dials. What we liked most though, was the piano-black finishing and the strip of brushed metallic red (which matches the car's variant and the key fob) across the dash. It's a minimal design input but it does bring out the attitude of the car in an unabashedly sporty manner.
Space wise, the 3 Series has outgrown its predecessor, giving rear passengers 15mm of additional legroom. And because the height of the car has grown, it has an additional 8mm of headroom to provide. Boot space also sees to a significant increase of 20 litres to a generous and no less useful 480 litres. It's a reasonable amount of space to haul in a couple of Callaway bags without knocking down the rear benches.
Towards the course of improvement is also its interior, where it leaps ahead of its predecessor in terms of visual appeal. Drivers will now be faced with a number of new gadgets as well as a fresh instrument panel, with a warm orange glow to the dials. What we liked most though, was the piano-black finishing and the strip of brushed metallic red (which matches the car's variant and the key fob) across the dash. It's a minimal design input but it does bring out the attitude of the car in an unabashedly sporty manner.
Space wise, the 3 Series has outgrown its predecessor, giving rear passengers 15mm of additional legroom. And because the height of the car has grown, it has an additional 8mm of headroom to provide. Boot space also sees to a significant increase of 20 litres to a generous and no less useful 480 litres. It's a reasonable amount of space to haul in a couple of Callaway bags without knocking down the rear benches.
The sporty leather-upholstered electric seat which can adjust the sides for lateral hold during an enthusiastic drive means it is a seat with two different characters - a comfortable and cosseting feel at a gentleman's pace and a bucket seat at manic speeds round the meandering roads.
Personally, we reckon Audi probably have a couple of guys that know their influences and craft, cranking out cars after cars of high standards. But while such skilled engineers and designers often fall into the trap of already successful but uninspired layout, BMW's latest compact sports sedan here has that spark of sweeping atmosphere and uniqueness of simplicity that make it well worth occupants' time.
Personally, we reckon Audi probably have a couple of guys that know their influences and craft, cranking out cars after cars of high standards. But while such skilled engineers and designers often fall into the trap of already successful but uninspired layout, BMW's latest compact sports sedan here has that spark of sweeping atmosphere and uniqueness of simplicity that make it well worth occupants' time.
 |
The Drive
The necessary increments in the car's dimensions do pay off. Thanks to the wider track on both front and rear, resistance to roll is much greater when the F30 is thrown into bends. And you'd enjoy it, with the nimble turns and rotations that make it so easy for drivers to 'point and shoot'. The responsive 4-cylinder direct injection 2.0-litre turbo give this 328i a punchy performance, accompanied by a creamy and mechanical gearbox that will enable occupants to enjoy a smooth ride.
Despite the shortage of 2 extra cylinders, the bimmer never once leaves the driver wanting. Churning out a maximum horsepower and torque of 245bhp and 350Nm respectively, the engine is a lively brute and it feels strong on the road, with bare minimal turbo lag. As a result, the 328i is able to scoot from 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
In the Comfort setting, the car's tempo over diving roads and even poorly paved ones is nothing short of ordinary. It soaks up the ruts and bumps with ease, allowing all on board to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable occasion despite travelling at high speeds. Equipped with the eight-speed automatic, the gearbox changes more frequently than before and it does so in a calm and smooth manner. On the other hand, Sport setting permits the chassis to deliver a sharp and confident handling over the twisty roads, coupled with superb body control and what is a very well-weighted steering wheel. It gives the driver the green light to push the car hard by stiffening the ride and varying points for gear changes.
The necessary increments in the car's dimensions do pay off. Thanks to the wider track on both front and rear, resistance to roll is much greater when the F30 is thrown into bends. And you'd enjoy it, with the nimble turns and rotations that make it so easy for drivers to 'point and shoot'. The responsive 4-cylinder direct injection 2.0-litre turbo give this 328i a punchy performance, accompanied by a creamy and mechanical gearbox that will enable occupants to enjoy a smooth ride.
Despite the shortage of 2 extra cylinders, the bimmer never once leaves the driver wanting. Churning out a maximum horsepower and torque of 245bhp and 350Nm respectively, the engine is a lively brute and it feels strong on the road, with bare minimal turbo lag. As a result, the 328i is able to scoot from 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
In the Comfort setting, the car's tempo over diving roads and even poorly paved ones is nothing short of ordinary. It soaks up the ruts and bumps with ease, allowing all on board to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable occasion despite travelling at high speeds. Equipped with the eight-speed automatic, the gearbox changes more frequently than before and it does so in a calm and smooth manner. On the other hand, Sport setting permits the chassis to deliver a sharp and confident handling over the twisty roads, coupled with superb body control and what is a very well-weighted steering wheel. It gives the driver the green light to push the car hard by stiffening the ride and varying points for gear changes.
On the track, the car rises to the occasion when the drive setting is switched to Sport+ mode. Its kickdown response comes alive while the electric nannies such as the traction control is disabled, keeping only the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) active. The precision of the steering, united with the help of the acceleration, directs a remarkable chassis - providing drivers (or racer wannabes for that matter) a well-controlled tail that slides out to a good degree before bringing it back in check.
The only criticism is the lack of a rorty exhaust note. It doesn't "shout" when extended, instead, it lets out a voice that's a little too muted. But such a complaint is like criticising the mole on Marilyn Monroe's face or the mind-boggling size of Jennifer Lopez's buttocks.
Conclusion
Having tried many different compact sedans, to declare that the latest 3 Series has the best handling in its segment is an understatement. No doubt that the meaner naturally aspirated six is a thing of a past, it's probably a small price to pay for greater efficiency and driving pleasure.
Like its higher-tiered siblings the 3 Series emulates, there's an intensity to its allure and driving capabilities that makes it the best in its class.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The only criticism is the lack of a rorty exhaust note. It doesn't "shout" when extended, instead, it lets out a voice that's a little too muted. But such a complaint is like criticising the mole on Marilyn Monroe's face or the mind-boggling size of Jennifer Lopez's buttocks.
Conclusion
Having tried many different compact sedans, to declare that the latest 3 Series has the best handling in its segment is an understatement. No doubt that the meaner naturally aspirated six is a thing of a past, it's probably a small price to pay for greater efficiency and driving pleasure.
Like its higher-tiered siblings the 3 Series emulates, there's an intensity to its allure and driving capabilities that makes it the best in its class.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Although BMW first introduced its 3 Series, codenamed E21, in 1975, it was only in the early 90s when the car started bagging countless awards - probably even more than successful football club, Manchester United. And this success went on further in 2007 when the 3.0-litre twin turbo engine, which is found in the BMW 335i, won the International Engine of the Year Awards. Thus, to retain its impressive line of success of the Bavarian company's most important car, BMW went another notch higher with its sixth generation 3 Series, codenamed F30.
There was a time when most carmakers built cars that had a lot of soul in them. Nowadays, the advancement of technology means it doesn't take a whole lot of talent or training to make a good car. So it's really refreshing when a car such as the F30 comes along. While driving on a track such as the Circuit de Catalunya may be hard to fault most cars (since cars can be thrown with reckless abandon on tracks), the latest 3 Series excelled on the twisty roads of bubbly Barcelona.
For the fact that BMW has sold over 12.5 million 3 Series since 1975, it simply meant that they aren't going to get this successful recipe off beam by choking the pipes or making drastic changes all of a sudden. Drastic change said, the predictable 3 Series isn't exactly predictable.
Exterior
The car's signature kidney grille and headlamps are widened to the point of touching. It may not keep some boats afloat but it sure will appeal to many. In fact, we reckon the 3er looks better than any of the other models in the lineup (the 6er is a close second), with awkward-looking fascias and bulky add-ons missing - just the way a compact sports sedan should look. One of the best things about the F30 is that it has this endorphin-inducing effect - you just can't help but feel good after looking at it - without coming off as sugary or the slightest bit cheesy.
There was a time when most carmakers built cars that had a lot of soul in them. Nowadays, the advancement of technology means it doesn't take a whole lot of talent or training to make a good car. So it's really refreshing when a car such as the F30 comes along. While driving on a track such as the Circuit de Catalunya may be hard to fault most cars (since cars can be thrown with reckless abandon on tracks), the latest 3 Series excelled on the twisty roads of bubbly Barcelona.
For the fact that BMW has sold over 12.5 million 3 Series since 1975, it simply meant that they aren't going to get this successful recipe off beam by choking the pipes or making drastic changes all of a sudden. Drastic change said, the predictable 3 Series isn't exactly predictable.
Exterior
The car's signature kidney grille and headlamps are widened to the point of touching. It may not keep some boats afloat but it sure will appeal to many. In fact, we reckon the 3er looks better than any of the other models in the lineup (the 6er is a close second), with awkward-looking fascias and bulky add-ons missing - just the way a compact sports sedan should look. One of the best things about the F30 is that it has this endorphin-inducing effect - you just can't help but feel good after looking at it - without coming off as sugary or the slightest bit cheesy.
|
Besides being longer and wider than its predecessor, the latest 3 is also lighter by 40kg, thanks to the extensive use of extra-lightweight chassis components and the new generation of light but no less powerful engine. It may come as no surprise to some, but considering that the car is longer, roomier and has a bigger footprint (front + 37 mm, rear + 47 mm) as compared to the E90, the F30 represents progress that deserves salutation.
There are some changes to the rear of the car too. The butt now sees through a pair of dazzling BMW L-shaped design tail lamps, giving the car the somewhat needed visual emphasis and road presence.
Available in three variants - Sport, Modern and Luxury - the Melbourne Red car that you see here is the Sport version. Fitted with the optional 19 inch rims, this sleek and elegant 3 Series looks the part of its current family and it is a big step to the right direction.
|
Interior
Towards the course of improvement is also its interior, where it leaps ahead of its predecessor in terms of visual appeal. Drivers will now be faced with a number of new gadgets as well as a fresh instrument panel, with a warm orange glow to the dials. What we liked most though, was the piano-black finishing and the strip of brushed metallic red (which matches the car's variant and the key fob) across the dash. It's a minimal design input but it does bring out the attitude of the car in an unabashedly sporty manner.
Space wise, the 3 Series has outgrown its predecessor, giving rear passengers 15mm of additional legroom. And because the height of the car has grown, it has an additional 8mm of headroom to provide. Boot space also sees to a significant increase of 20 litres to a generous and no less useful 480 litres. It's a reasonable amount of space to haul in a couple of Callaway bags without knocking down the rear benches.
Towards the course of improvement is also its interior, where it leaps ahead of its predecessor in terms of visual appeal. Drivers will now be faced with a number of new gadgets as well as a fresh instrument panel, with a warm orange glow to the dials. What we liked most though, was the piano-black finishing and the strip of brushed metallic red (which matches the car's variant and the key fob) across the dash. It's a minimal design input but it does bring out the attitude of the car in an unabashedly sporty manner.
Space wise, the 3 Series has outgrown its predecessor, giving rear passengers 15mm of additional legroom. And because the height of the car has grown, it has an additional 8mm of headroom to provide. Boot space also sees to a significant increase of 20 litres to a generous and no less useful 480 litres. It's a reasonable amount of space to haul in a couple of Callaway bags without knocking down the rear benches.
The sporty leather-upholstered electric seat which can adjust the sides for lateral hold during an enthusiastic drive means it is a seat with two different characters - a comfortable and cosseting feel at a gentleman's pace and a bucket seat at manic speeds round the meandering roads.
Personally, we reckon Audi probably have a couple of guys that know their influences and craft, cranking out cars after cars of high standards. But while such skilled engineers and designers often fall into the trap of already successful but uninspired layout, BMW's latest compact sports sedan here has that spark of sweeping atmosphere and uniqueness of simplicity that make it well worth occupants' time.
Personally, we reckon Audi probably have a couple of guys that know their influences and craft, cranking out cars after cars of high standards. But while such skilled engineers and designers often fall into the trap of already successful but uninspired layout, BMW's latest compact sports sedan here has that spark of sweeping atmosphere and uniqueness of simplicity that make it well worth occupants' time.
|
The Drive
The necessary increments in the car's dimensions do pay off. Thanks to the wider track on both front and rear, resistance to roll is much greater when the F30 is thrown into bends. And you'd enjoy it, with the nimble turns and rotations that make it so easy for drivers to 'point and shoot'. The responsive 4-cylinder direct injection 2.0-litre turbo give this 328i a punchy performance, accompanied by a creamy and mechanical gearbox that will enable occupants to enjoy a smooth ride.
Despite the shortage of 2 extra cylinders, the bimmer never once leaves the driver wanting. Churning out a maximum horsepower and torque of 245bhp and 350Nm respectively, the engine is a lively brute and it feels strong on the road, with bare minimal turbo lag. As a result, the 328i is able to scoot from 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
In the Comfort setting, the car's tempo over diving roads and even poorly paved ones is nothing short of ordinary. It soaks up the ruts and bumps with ease, allowing all on board to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable occasion despite travelling at high speeds. Equipped with the eight-speed automatic, the gearbox changes more frequently than before and it does so in a calm and smooth manner. On the other hand, Sport setting permits the chassis to deliver a sharp and confident handling over the twisty roads, coupled with superb body control and what is a very well-weighted steering wheel. It gives the driver the green light to push the car hard by stiffening the ride and varying points for gear changes.
The necessary increments in the car's dimensions do pay off. Thanks to the wider track on both front and rear, resistance to roll is much greater when the F30 is thrown into bends. And you'd enjoy it, with the nimble turns and rotations that make it so easy for drivers to 'point and shoot'. The responsive 4-cylinder direct injection 2.0-litre turbo give this 328i a punchy performance, accompanied by a creamy and mechanical gearbox that will enable occupants to enjoy a smooth ride.
Despite the shortage of 2 extra cylinders, the bimmer never once leaves the driver wanting. Churning out a maximum horsepower and torque of 245bhp and 350Nm respectively, the engine is a lively brute and it feels strong on the road, with bare minimal turbo lag. As a result, the 328i is able to scoot from 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
In the Comfort setting, the car's tempo over diving roads and even poorly paved ones is nothing short of ordinary. It soaks up the ruts and bumps with ease, allowing all on board to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable occasion despite travelling at high speeds. Equipped with the eight-speed automatic, the gearbox changes more frequently than before and it does so in a calm and smooth manner. On the other hand, Sport setting permits the chassis to deliver a sharp and confident handling over the twisty roads, coupled with superb body control and what is a very well-weighted steering wheel. It gives the driver the green light to push the car hard by stiffening the ride and varying points for gear changes.
On the track, the car rises to the occasion when the drive setting is switched to Sport+ mode. Its kickdown response comes alive while the electric nannies such as the traction control is disabled, keeping only the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) active. The precision of the steering, united with the help of the acceleration, directs a remarkable chassis - providing drivers (or racer wannabes for that matter) a well-controlled tail that slides out to a good degree before bringing it back in check.
The only criticism is the lack of a rorty exhaust note. It doesn't "shout" when extended, instead, it lets out a voice that's a little too muted. But such a complaint is like criticising the mole on Marilyn Monroe's face or the mind-boggling size of Jennifer Lopez's buttocks.
Conclusion
Having tried many different compact sedans, to declare that the latest 3 Series has the best handling in its segment is an understatement. No doubt that the meaner naturally aspirated six is a thing of a past, it's probably a small price to pay for greater efficiency and driving pleasure.
Like its higher-tiered siblings the 3 Series emulates, there's an intensity to its allure and driving capabilities that makes it the best in its class.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The only criticism is the lack of a rorty exhaust note. It doesn't "shout" when extended, instead, it lets out a voice that's a little too muted. But such a complaint is like criticising the mole on Marilyn Monroe's face or the mind-boggling size of Jennifer Lopez's buttocks.
Conclusion
Having tried many different compact sedans, to declare that the latest 3 Series has the best handling in its segment is an understatement. No doubt that the meaner naturally aspirated six is a thing of a past, it's probably a small price to pay for greater efficiency and driving pleasure.
Like its higher-tiered siblings the 3 Series emulates, there's an intensity to its allure and driving capabilities that makes it the best in its class.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
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