As always, BMW remains true to its style, with each new car undergoing restyling to enhance already perfect shapes, proportions, and characteristics. Perfection knows no bounds, and the creators of the 3 Series are well aware of this, striving to take into account the consumer's wishes to create the perfect car. The BMW 320d xDrive has also been refreshed.
What's New in the Updated BMW 320d xDrive
The main changes affected the engine and interior. Although these changes cannot be called very significant — the engine power has increased by only 6 hp, and the torque by 20 Nm. Not much, although it could have a positive impact on the driving quality.
Regarding the exterior of the BMW 320d xDrive, the rear taillights have received a gift of LED backlighting. It looks beautiful, especially in the dark or foggy weather. Undoubtedly, quality light is essential for any car — it is an additional safety measure for the driver and other road users.
The manufacturer made slight adjustments to the fog lights, front bumper, and radiator grille. However, the changes are not significant overall, and the car remains recognizable.
Rightly so, this car is an excellent continuation of its driver. It unquestionably follows all commands, every movement. All maneuvers seem sharp, instantaneous, like the driver's hand movements.
Such Bavarian proficiency in power and force distribution always works in favor of the driver — they are confident that they can react in time to road situations and make decisions when needed.
Concerning maneuverability and suspension stiffness — they are sufficiently refined for the showroom client to understand the powerful and stable horse they are buying. From the first seconds of driving on the road, it becomes clear that one does not want to part with this car — it is practically perfect.
For all models starting from the 320, the all-wheel-drive activation system is available. The transmission is presented with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed Steptronic. Both versions were able to demonstrate real class during testing, earning the trust of the designers. Definitely, the choice between manual or automatic lies solely with the buyer.
Of course, some showroom consultants and advertisers talk about unreal changes made by developers in the new version. But, in fact, there are no indirect changes. Among the pleasant details, the color of the climate control screen backlight has changed from orange to white. The idea turned out to be very interesting and stylish, although it is difficult to call it a major transformation.
Interior Updates of BMW 320d xDrive
If we delve deeper into the salon update, we can still find some new details. Among them is the change of materials in the interior trim — additional chrome on the control panel and ventilation grilles.
Navigation has been supplemented with 3D graphics, which provide very realistic images. It is also possible to change and update maps completely free of charge for up to 3 years.
Front parking sensors activate automatically when needed, thanks to the built-in AvtoPDS system, ensuring perfect parking in any location. The accuracy of the parking sensors is equally good during both day and night.
One of the key features of the BMW 320d xDrive is its adaptability to cold weather. In cold winter conditions, the seats heat up to a comfortable temperature in just 60 seconds. Therefore, there will no longer be a need to sit on cold leather.
At the same time, the climate control will heat the interior to comfortable degrees in 7 minutes. This is a significant innovation, as the previous climate version required about 10 minutes for this. Taking into account energy saving, heat is generated faster and with lower energy consumption.
Driving Modes
Every car owner can use the «3 Series» in three comfortable modes: sport, sport +, and comfort. Each mode was tested on a special track to understand the real pros and cons of each.
Comfort. Soft steering, smooth movements, all-wheel drive, protection against slipping and skidding. The car in this mode is maximally coordinated and tuned to provide three-dimensional comfort to its owner.
In the event of skidding, the safety system kicks in, the car maneuvers to the maximum, and little depends on the driver at that moment. Even the gas pedal is automatically blocked. The BMW 320d xDrive gradually slows down and stops the car. The name of the mode corresponds to reality. It is maximally safe and comfortable.
Sport. In this mode, the steering wheel feels firmer, but the stability system still operates at 100%. The engine easily revs up and responds to light touches of the gas pedal. The gearbox in this mode works in sync with the engine and provides an enhanced signal.
The stability system is particularly noticeable on turns and skids because it reacts as quickly as possible and keeps the car steady. With the relatively low weight of this model, the stability of the car on the road depends on the stability system's operation.
Even with the gas pedal fully pressed down, the BMW 320d xDrive will not rev up until the car exits the skid.
The modes can be easily switched even on the go. This greatly simplifies driving and adds another plus to the overall comfort of the car.
Sport +. In this mode, you can completely deactivate the stability control. This means the car becomes extremely maneuverable, but in the event of skidding, no one except the driver can stop it. Definitely, this is unsafe and requires the driver to have good skills and experience. Additionally, it should be remembered that in the slightest icy conditions, the car can instantly become difficult to control.
Unlike cars from other manufacturers, there is no power drop, and speed is controlled by pressing the gas pedal. Smooth movement equals smooth pressing. You will be able to drive out of loose sand or loose snow. In dangerous conditions, the brakes are not used at all — everything is controlled by pressing the gas pedal.
Undoubtedly, this car is created not only for a beautiful exterior but also for the power that bursts from under the hood. If you were looking for a car that will equally serve you well in the city and show itself in races outside the city, the 3 Series is just for that. BMW knows how to create cars that conquer millions.
Technical Specifications of BMW 320d xDrive
BMW knows how to create stylish and beautiful cars with a powerful charge. The 3 Series is a perfect example of this. Let's look at the dry figures that will eloquently tell about all the delights.
Technical features of BMW 320d xDrive:
- engine capacity — 2 liters;
- power — from 116 hp;
- 4000 rpm;
- maximum speed — 228 km/h;
- acceleration to 100 km/h — 7.4 seconds;
- fuel consumption in a mixed cycle — 4.7;
- all-wheel drive;
- 8-speed automatic transmission;
- ventilated disc brakes.
Unfortunately, one sad note remains — in Russia, depending on the configuration, you can buy this beauty for 2,000,000 — 4,000,000 rubles. The amount is quite impressive for a car, but not at all surprising if it's a BMW.
Read also: BMW M340i 2019: the sporty version of the «3 Series»