BMW 320d 2012 Review

By this F30 version, the 3 Series has grown into its face. Carrying extra size and maturity after the Bangle-wrought 2005 version, it resembles the more stately 5 and 7 Series offerings, allowing BMW to chase first-time/young/fun-seeking shoppers -- as it does with MINI models -- via the 1 Series.

That's not to say the 3 Series is dull or expensive. The 320d's sub 5.0L/100km (officially 4.5 for a combined cycle) fuel consumption figure means it's exempt from our Luxury Car Tax, and BMW's clever efficiency system(s) are aimed at bringing ongoing savings in travel costs during ownership.

The range starts below the 320d's $60,990 start-up price, with the 318d at $56,400. They both use BMW's third-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engines but the 320d is in a higher state of tune, at 135kW/380Nm versus the 318d's 105kW/320Nm.

The new 3 Series is larger and that's especially noticeable in the cabin, where space was lacking in the previous models. Rear passenger room is now decent, including good foot, knee and headroom and the rear seat itself is well-sized and comfortable. Space up front is generous, with ample legroom and shoulder room between driver and co-pilot. Dash styling has followed the same tack for years but has aged well, and is good for those familiar with the arrangement, and simple enough for the uninitiated.

The test car (in the new Modern specification, for an additional $2384) was trimmed in 'Oyster' beige leather, with matching instrumentation. It was rather hard on the eye, especially when paired to 'driftwood' timber embellishments in the centre console and dashboard. Still, after a few days the tones and trim merely added to the 320d's well-sorted package. Like any light-coloured leather there was evidence of wear on the corners but it was a nice change from all the black leather most cars are safely opted with. The test car was also fitted with BMW's new Hot Spot feature, providing internet connectivity for up to four devices while on the move using the car's antenna. It was simple to connect but this tester made the mistake of failing to first access the wi-fi system for Bluetooth. No doubt owners would be quick to manage the set-up.

There's extra cabin space and BMW's usual high-end appointments, but the 320d's engine and handling are the real story. Left in 'normal' mode, the diesel performs more akin to petrol offering while the clever 'eco pro' mode tempers acceleration but doesn't turn it sluggish, and immediate feedback on fuel-saving figures makes for interesting travel.

A read-out of estimated savings in fuel consumption while using the setting is displayed in blue above the trip figure. Apparently we saved 5.7L/100km during a usual trip from the suburbs to the city, with climate control set on auto (using heating in this instance) over 37km. Overall consumption for the week was 7.8L/100km; far from its potential 4.5L but it should be noted the majority of travel was stuck in traffic and city/suburbs.

Even during mundane duties, the diesel unit's strength is easily tapped and response from standstill or while in its mid-range is ample. There's no lag to talk about and, apart from noise at start up and idle, no compromise for choosing the diesel. The engine is quite noisy but by now we shouldn't be offended by the sound of a hearty oiler, and when the foot's down, its growl can be quite grand.

No compromise, either, on performance. The diesel's 380Nm torque is available from 1750rpm and tractable to around 3000rpm, meaning highway travel requiring overtaking from speeds around 80km/h is unfussed and efficient. Even in 'comfort' mode the transmission uses all eight gears well, shifting quickly and smoothly to top but also swift to downshift one or two cogs at every reasonable instance. The sport mode obviously brings more response, and really, the paddle shift is simply a bonus while using the lower (eco and comfort) settings; quickly returning the drivetrain to sports-oriented operability.

Back to BMW's cleverness on consumption: the company calls it EfficientDynamics (yes, one word from two... efficient!) and the 320d has the lot. Or at least some of BMW's latest; incorporating idle stop-start and the abovementioned eco pro mode which exploits various opportunities to save energy including its recuperation system (under deceleration and braking) and reduced function of the air-conditioning compressor. While in the eco mode a neat display can be selected, detailing energy use/savings on the centre screen, and driving tips appear with suggestions like: try to anticipate braking distances (to avoid heavy braking requirements).

Body control is a highlight. The 320d's agility is served by responsive steering and front-to-rear behaviour remains calm even if pushed, with notice on any understeer obvious but easy to remedy. Braking is excellent with a solid feel underfoot when stomped and smooth operability under frequent use.

The 320d's idle stop-start system is one of the better we've tried, with smooth restart and no confusion between stints. For example, the driver can rely on the system shutting down even if restart has been activated only a few seconds beforehand. This differs to some (Mazda's version for its SKYACTIV range, for one) which can remain idling for around a minute from restart before the system is ready again.

Even without its clever trip-cost-saving stuff the 320d's drivetrain is noteworthy. We're looking forward to trying the 'lesser' 318d version but in the meantime we can say this is a complete package. Its steering has decent weight and good response and the extra cabin space would see the 3 Series across the line suiting many average-sized families. On looks alone, the F30 style council deserves credit for giving the 3 Series a serious, mature appearance more akin to its executive offerings than merely its baby sedan.

*BMW 328i Modern Line shown for illustrative purposes.

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