BMW 320i joins F30 3 Series line-up
Potential buyers of the BMW F30 3 Series now have one additional option to choose from with the 320i having just joined the line-up as the range’s new entry model. Priced at RM238,800, the 320i is a full RM10k cheaper than the 320d, previously the most affordable model in the range.
Available in Sport and Luxury Line trims, the new 320i joins a 3 Series line-up that currently includes the 320d, 328i, and 335i. Since its launch in March 2012, the F30 has found more than a thousand Malaysian buyers, instantly establishing itself among BMW Group Malaysia’s top sellers.
Powering the 320i is the increasingly familiar 2.0-litre N20B20 twin-scroll turbo engine that is being deployed across the BMW range to substitute its famed natural-breathing six-pots. Some of you would recall this engine in the 328i making 245hp and 350Nm, but here in the 320i, it is tuned to a more modest 184hp and 270Nm.
Paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission, BMW claims that the 320i is capable of hitting 100kph from rest in 7.6 seconds. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.0 litres per 100km in the combined cycle, corresponding to carbon dioxide emissions of 141 g/km.
Equipment-wise, the 320i comes packed with a suite of in-car entertainment and connectivity features. Both BMW Live and BMW TeleServices are standard features accessed through a 6.5” free-standing LCD panel and central BMW iDrive controller. Through BMW ConnectedDrive, the 320i also offers seamless USB and Bluetooth integration.
BMW’s new approach in offering trim lines to its customers allows a greater level of vehicle personalization to suit people of different tastes. The Luxury Line will appeal to buyers with more mature tastes, featuring discreet high-gloss chrome linings complemented by a set of 17″ multi-spoke alloys. Inside, we are treated to a cabin decked in classic colours and materials such as Fineline anthracite wood trim and Pearl Gloss trim highlights.
The Sport Line model caters to the more dynamic lot, with high-gloss black exterior finishes matched to 17″ double-spoke alloy wheels. Sports seats and that distinct Coral Red Matt trim highlight further add to the vehicle’s racy persona.
The new BMW 320i is also covered by BMW’s extensive service program, the BMW Service + Repair Inclusive (BS+RI) which covers the normal wear-and-tear repairs or replacements as well as maintenance, service and repair of factory components of the vehicle. The service program offers peace-of-mind BMW ownership and provides cover from three years from its original registration date or 60,000km whichever comes first.
Pictures: Official BMW release.
