In response to a recent move by European luxury car manufacturers to market less expensive entry-level sedans, BMW added the 320 to its 3 Series line. It’s equipped with the least powerful 3 Series engine, but it also offers the lowest base price in the lineup.
What's New for 2014
The 320 sedan premiered in the early months of 2013 and remains unchanged for the 2014 model year.
Choose Your BMW 320
The 320 isn't a powerhouse, but its 2-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine produces 180 horsepower, enough for most daily driving duties. Fuel economy is enhanced by an automatic start/stop system and a regenerative brake system that routes energy created during braking back to the electrical system. However, there are two choices you’ll need to make.
Drivetrain: The 320 features rear-wheel drive, while the 320 xDrive version is equipped with all-wheel drive.
Transmission: The standard transmission choice is an eight-speed automatic with sport and manual modes accompanied by paddle shifters. A six-speed manual transmission is available for those who prefer this hands-on approach. There's no additional charge for the manual, but it is only available in the rear-wheel-drive 320.
Major option packages include
Cold Weather: You’ll be prepared for winter with a heated steering wheel and heated seats, front and rear. Retractable headlight washers can also found in this group.
Premium Package: Designed to make your driving more comfortable and convenient, this package offers auto-dimming mirrors, power front seats with a driver-memory function, a one-year subscription for satellite radio, and a moonroof.
Sport Package: Starting with the M sport suspension, the Sport package also adds a choice between two 18-inch-wheel styles, sport seats and special interior details.
Some components of these packages are also available on an individual basis.
Other package and individual options
- Xenon headlights with adaptive light control
- Parking assistance with front and rear sensors and a rearview camera
- Navigation system with touchpad
You also have 12 exterior colors to choose among, including two base colors and 10 metallic choices at an additional cost. For the interior, two leatherette colors are included in the base price, while two Dakota leather options are additional.
The Dakota leather seats maintain a higher resale value than the Sensatec leatherette upholstery. On the other hand, if you travel with children or dogs, the leatherette is less prone to stains and scratches.