Happenings

New 184bhp, 270Nm 320i Available Locally

BY Azfar Hashim

Arrival of entry-level 3 Series should increase sales number for the BMW brand locally

Photos courtesy of BMW Asia

 

BMW Asia yesterday announced the arrival of the much anticipated, new BMW 320i in Singapore. Following the impressive BMW 328i, the top four-cylinder model launched earlier in March, the new BMW 320i will be the second model to be powered by the new-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.

Powered by BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the new four-cylinder engine has enabled the new BMW 320i with an all-round improvement against its predecessor. It now develops a maximum of 184 hp at 5,000 rpm (+8%) and peak torque of 270 Nm at just 1,250 — 4,500 rpm (+22%). With an 8-speed sport automatic transmission, it can further sprint from naught to 100km/h in just 7.6 seconds, which is 2.2 seconds faster than before. The new BMW 320i is also highly efficient and friendly to the environment with a fuel consumption rating of just 6.0 litres/100km (+8%) and CO2 emissions of 139 g/km (+7%), thanks to Efficient Dynamics.

The sixth generation of the 3 Series has grown in size compared to its predecessor, with its wide track (front +37mm, rear + 48mm) particularly prominent, and the car’s increased length (+93 mm) and augmented wheelbase (+50mm) also accentuate its sporting silhouette. Inside the new BMW 3 Series Sedan, the noticeable increase in space benefits the rear passengers above all. The new BMW 320i presents the car with exclusive, high-quality material combination and unbeatable build quality underlining the premium ambience of the new range.

BMW is the first carmaker to offer an eight-speed automatic gearbox in the premium mid-size segment. It links up with the Auto Start-Stop function that comes as standard. Compact and exceptionally efficient, it allows the new BMW 3 Series to match or outperform models fitted with the six-speed manual gearbox in terms of both fuel economy and emissions. The new eight-speed automatic brings together shift comfort, dynamic performance and efficiency of the highest order, making it the perfect partner for the new sedan’s dynamic potential.

As components of the BMW EfficientDynamics technology line-up, the Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, and need-based operation of ancillary components also play their part in reducing fuel consumption. Added to which, the new Driving Experience Control switch not only offers Comfort, Sport and Sport + options, but also ECO PRO mode, which gives all the models in the range the potential to further improve fuel economy. This switch helps to influence the style of driving and enables drivers with maximum fuel economy. 

The BMW 320i comes standard with 17-inch multi-spoke wheels, Park Distance Control (rear), electrically adjustable seats; and Hands-free facility with USB interface, Sport Automatic Transmission with gear shift paddles, Cruise control with braking function, Comfort access, Navigation System Professional on a 8.8 inch display and 12GB memory. Price is set at $218,800, including COE.