2017 BMW 3 Series

New for 2017

Changes for 2017 include the addition of the 330i and 330e iPerformance models, as well as some tweaks to equipment options.

The sports sedan benchmark

The BMW 3 Series essentially created the small luxury sports sedan category, and automakers like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, Lexus, and Jaguar have tried (and failed) to overtake it. BMW continues to tweak and improve the 3 Series for 2017, taking it in new directions in an attempt to maintain its lead over the competition.

Performance

BMW offers no shortage of powertrain options on the 2017 3 Series. There are no less than three gasoline engine choices with six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions and standard rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The 3 Series is also available with diesel or (new for 2017) plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The base 3 Series model is the 320i, which uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. It will do 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds (7.0 seconds with all-wheel drive) and reach a top speed of 130 mph. EPA-rated fuel economy for rear-wheel drive models is 28 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 35 mpg highway) with the automatic and 27 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 35 mpg highway).* All-wheel drive models are rated at 27 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 34 mpg highway).*

The 330i joins the lineup for 2017 as the mid-level model. It also has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 330i will do 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and has the same 130 mph top speed as the 320i. Rear-wheel drive models get an EPA-rated 27 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 34 mpg highway) with the automatic transmission, and 25 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 32 mpg highway) with the manual.* All-wheel drive is only available with the automatic, and that combination is good for 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 33 mpg highway).*

The 340i has a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, which produces 320 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. It will do 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 to 4.9 seconds, depending on the transmission and number of driven wheels, and has a top speed of 130 mph. Rear-wheel drive models return 25 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 32 mpg highway) with the automatic transmission and 23 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 29 mpg highway) with the manual. All-wheel drive models get 25 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway) with the automatic, and 23 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 29 mpg highway)* with the manual.

For a more fuel-efficient option, BMW also offers the 328d diesel model with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four. Available only with an automatic transmission, the diesel produces 180 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. It does 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds (7.3 seconds with all-wheel drive), and has the same 130-mph top speed as other 3 Series models. The fuel-economy figures are 36 mpg combined (31 mpg city, 43 mpg highway)* with rear-wheel drive and 34 mpg combined (30 mpg city, 40 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.

The 3 Series also gains a plug-in hybrid option for 2017, the somewhat awkwardly named 330e iPerformance. Its powertrain combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission with an electric motor and 7.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. Total system output is 248 hp and 310 lb-ft, allowing for 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph. The 330e also gets an EPA-rated 71 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), and can drive solely on electric power for up to 14 miles.

Features

The 2017 BMW 3 Series is a four-door, five-seat small luxury sedan. BMW also offers Sports Wagon and Gran Turismo hatchback body styles, and the 4 Series coupe and convertible are based on the same platform. The 3 Series starts at $33,450.**

Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, Driving Dynamics Control system with Eco Pro, Comfort, and Sport settings, SensaTec® upholstery, USB audio connection and Bluetooth® streaming audio, HD Radio™, nine-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, BMW Ambiance Lighting, a three-spoke leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, and BMW iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch central screen and rotary controller.

Optional features include a 16-speaker harman/kardon® surround sound audio system, moon roof, wireless phone charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a split-folding rear seat, LED front lighting, and navigation. Notable option packages include the Cold Weather Package (heated seats and steering wheel) and the Track Handling Package (variable sport steering, M Sport brakes, 18-inch alloy wheels, and adaptive M suspension).

Design

The 3 Series is BMW’s signature model, and its design has evolved over the years. A far cry from the boxy and compact E30 generation of the 1980s, the current F31 generation is not only larger but sleeker as well. It features classic long-hood, short-tail proportions, and iconic BMW styling elements like “halo” headlights and a twin-kidney grille. The overall design is understated yet handsome.

Inside, the interior is all business. The materials are of suitably high quality for a luxury car, but BMW didn’t fall into the trap of creating an overwrought design to make the cabin feel more expensive. What you do get is a nicely shaped steering wheel, easy-to-read gauges, and a well-designed dashboard that puts all controls within easy reach. It’s the perfect perch for a bit of spirited driving.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 BMW 3 Series includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include a rearview camera, Park Distance Control, side and top view cameras, speed limit info, Active Driving Assistant, and Active Blind Spot Detection.

Verdict

The 2017 BMW 3 Series covers all of the luxury sports sedan bases.

For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2017 BMW 3 Series, contact us online or visit BMW of Silver Spring at 3211 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.

Image: BMW