2019 BMW 3 Series - Review
September 03 2019, Calgary BMW
The new BMW 3-Series is here! The latest iteration of BMW's compact executive sport sedan is codenamed the G20 and separates itself from the outgoing sixth generation in some key areas. It's longer in the wheelbase and overall length, more fuel and aerodynamically efficient and drops weight by 120lbs depending on the exact configuration. The body rigidity is up by 25% as BMW incorporates stronger materials in more areas of the sedans construction. The new 3-Series is currently available in the 330i xDrive guise featuring a twin scroll turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder with 255 horsepower and 295lb/ft of torque. This version of the 3-Series will soon be accompanied by the M-Performance M340i xDrive and the plug-in hybrid 330e xDrive. At the time of this writing, the seventh generation of the 3-Series will not be coming with a manual transmission or in the wagon body type.
But there is no need to fear this news as the 330i xDrive may be one of the most exciting versions of the standard 3-Series in quite some time. The 330i comes with the revered ZF 8 speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters that are imperceptible in the relaxed automatic mode but immediate and consistent when the BMW is in the Sport mode or manual shifting mode. The 300i has various driving modes including Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro, and the Adaptive mode. Adaptive mode monitors your current driving style to determine which of the three modes is best suited for the driver in that moment. Available in the M Sport Line is the adaptive suspension setup that will noticeably alter the sedans driving feel between the alert Sport mode and subdued Comfort mode. The 330i xDrive is a sports sedan true to its mission. The steering wheel is chunky with quick steering and an engine that inspires in a way that a lot of 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinders don't. It's immensely quick, confidence inspiring and crazy to think this is the entry-level version of the G20 3-Series.
BMW updated the cabin to feature the latest creature comforts from other modern BMW products. The latest version of iDrive with a touchscreen and the new 'Hey BMW' voice commands system are present. The layout is an evolution of the brand's no-nonsense interiors and impeccable build quality. Lots of interior trim options are available from the aluminum accents to open-pore wood to suit whatever your tastes are.
