Bmw 328i

Bmw 328i

Bmw 328i

There's been a lot of fuss about SUVs, four-door coupes and sexy sports cars in the luxury sphere, but when it comes to big sellers many still have four doors and a boot. The BMW 3-Series is the perfect example it's still BMW's most popular model and is a car that hasn't had its basic formula changed in decades.The latest 3-Series is a different beast, though, relying more heavily on four-cylinder engines, bringing more space and upping the ante on the luxury mantra.BMW has sharpened its pencil with the arrival of the new 3-Series, at least with some models. Priced from $56,400 for the new 318d model (an entry-level diesel) there's dual-zone airconditioning, Bluetooth, USB input, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, trip computer and alloy wheels.There are six airbags and stability control, although no spare tyre; runflat tyres are teamed with a puncture warning light.Some of the equipment previously standard - such as leather seats - is now relegated to the options list (fake leather is standard) on the popular entry-level models such as the 318d and 320i ($57,600).By the time you get to the 328i tested here ($64,600) leather is back on the menu, as are front parking sensors, electric front seats, a snazzy LED lighting package, satellite-navigation and various other features and trim updates, including 18-inch alloy wheels.A reversing camera is another $769 and keyless access is $846; there's a scarily long list of options that includes the usual barrage of trim and styling options to other assistance and safety features such as lane departure warning.As with other recently released BMWs, there are various "lines" packages that group various features into a well-priced kit that's likely to prove popular with buyers. The Sport Line costs $1538 on the 328i and the Modern Line is $769 (both are more expensive if you get lots of other options due to the wonders of the illogical luxury car tax, which applies to this car at more than $75,000). The Modern Line includes various trim and aesthetic tweaks, including "oyster"coloured finishes (including the key), a colour that looks suspiciously like beige but works in an elegant way.Our car also had a love-it-or-hate-it textured wood trim called Fine Line. I loved it.

Bmw 328i

Bmw 328i

At this level, the 3-Series has always been powered by a six-cylinder engine, but the slinky inline engine has been replaced by a four-cylinder turbo - and with fantastic results. The 2.0-litre has no detectable lag and uses the turbo's low-rev torque to good effect. A full 350Nm kicks in at just 1250rpm, making for effortless acceleration. There's ample muscle down low in the rev range, making light work of city traffic or hill climbing.Linear response is matched by an urgency and fluency few four-cylinders come close to.Unleash on the accelerator and it demonstrates its free-revving nature, which unlocks more in the way of go. There are engines with more cylinders that are quicker, but for a 2.0-litre four it's a revelation.The only let-down is the sound, which doesn't have the zing of the old six-cylinder; at higher revs it's more of a muted, uninspiring drone.Fuel use is claimed at 6.3 litres per 100km, but we found it used closer to 10 litres in everyday driving. There are also various settings for the driveline aimed at tweaking the driving experience. Eco Pro dulls throttle response and gear shifts too much while the Sport makes it too sensitive for my liking. The mid-level Comfort was the easiest to live with, while Sport Plus is for those with visions of going racing. There's also an electronic differential lock, but it's not likely to be used much as it is activated only when the stability control is switched off (which also happens when Sport Plus is selected).

Bmw 328i

Bmw 328i

Driving nous has always been a 3-Series cornerstone, and it's no different with this latest model.Steering is slightly lighter than the outgoing model, which is a good thing with a more effortless around-town feel.At the same time, there's a wonderfully fluid feel to it that adds to the impressive reassurance delivered by suspension that settles quickly while absorbing imperfections beautifully.Only on sharp-edged bumps and at lower speeds is there some fidgeting and crashing, all accompanied by some thuds as the suspension goes about its business. Our car was riding on 18-inch tyres that would likely have less compliance than the standard 17s, but our guess is the standard hoops would continue the theme.It can be annoying at times around town, but it's not a deal breaker.

Bmw 328i

Bmw 328i

At the other end of the scale higher speeds and on a bumpy, winding road - the 3 can take a second to settle rather than having that race car-like tied-down feel the breed has been known for. It's something softer suspension settings on the latest 5-Series also display but is effectively an admission that buyers would prefer a more supple ride than the harder, rough road feel of some previous BMWs. The new 3 is larger than its predecessor although still far from a full-size family car. Adults will find the rear seats more comfortable and with more knee room, but the middle seat is still best for temporary use, sitting higher.Up front, there's good adjustability and decent space, although storage is limited by the shallow centre console; there's also a pair of cupholders, sizeable door pockets and another small odds-and-ends binnacle. Doors don't always close first time, something exacerbated by the more forward position of the inner door handle.

Bmw 328i

Bmw 328i

As with other new arrivals, BMW has taken to a series of ''lines'' packs that can change the look and feel substantially. Ours was fitted with the Modern Line, bringing elegant satin metallics and other finishes. The boot is compact but useful, with a couple of deep under-floor compartments where the spare tyre would usually sit. A split-folding rear seat also is a plus.

Bmw 328i

Bmw 328i