BMW 3 Series Touring (E46, facelift 2001) 330xd (204 Hp) Steptronic


Overall Rating

7.9 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 4.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW 3 Series:

The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in seven generations.
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Touring (E46, facelift 2001) Overview:

BMW 3 Series (Touring (E46, facelift 2001)). With 410 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1725 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.1 s). The top speed reaches 225 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

330xd (204 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Combines robust diesel torque with all-wheel-drive traction and automatic convenience, making it a highly versatile performer.

Fuel Economy

Acceptable fuel economy for an AWD automatic diesel, but the least economical diesel option.

Best Use Case: All-weather / Long-distance

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Engaging and balanced driving dynamics
  • • Premium interior quality and timeless design
  • • Wide range of capable and efficient engines (especially diesels)
  • • Practical Touring body style with good cargo space
  • • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community

Cons:

  • • Potential for costly maintenance (cooling system, suspension bushes, subframe issues)
  • • Firm ride may not appeal to all drivers
  • • Older automatic transmissions can be less refined than modern units
  • • Some engines have known common issues (e.g., M54 oil consumption, M47 swirl flaps)
  • • Rust can be an issue on neglected examples

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Coupe (E46): 2001 - 2003).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:3 Series
Generation:Touring (E46, facelift 2001)
Modification (Engine):330xd (204 Hp) Steptronic
Start of production:2003
End of production:2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:204 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:68 Hp/l [10mm less]
Torque:410 Nm @ 1500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M57D30 More details about the engine M57D30
Engine displacement:3000
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:7 l
Coolant:10.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm mm
Compression ratio:17:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8.9 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.1 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.1 sec
Maximum speed:225 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:8.5 kg/Hp, 118.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.2 kg/Nm, 237.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1725
Max. weight:2220
Max load:495
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1345 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:435 l
Fuel tank capacity:63 l
Size:
Length:4480 mm mm [10mm less]
Width:1740 mm mm [15mm less]
Height:1410 mm mm [40mm more]
Wheelbase:2725 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1470 mm
Rear (Back) track:1485 mm
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears5
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size225/45 R17
Wheel rims size17
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Show off your BMW 3 Series knowledge – drop a review below!