BMW 3 Series Sedan (F30) 325d (218 Hp) Steptronic


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 3.7 / 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)

Sedan (F30) Overview:

BMW 3 Series (Sedan (F30)). With 450 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It boasts low fuel consumption (~5.4 l/100km). With a weight of 1490 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.6 s). The top speed reaches 245 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

325d (218 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A powerful diesel offering impressive torque and strong acceleration, especially with the smooth Steptronic transmission.

Fuel Economy

Remarkable fuel efficiency for its power output, delivering a compelling mix of performance and low running costs.

Best Use Case: Highway / Performance Diesel

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Excellent driving dynamics and handling
  • • Wide range of powerful and efficient engines (petrol, diesel, hybrid)
  • • Premium interior quality and advanced technology for its time
  • • Good fuel economy on diesel and EfficientDynamics models
  • • Strong safety ratings (5-star Euro NCAP)

Cons:

  • • Steering feel can be less engaging than previous generations (E90)
  • • Some engine reliability concerns (e.g., N20 timing chain, N47 diesel chain)
  • • Optional extras can significantly increase the price
  • • Rear seat space is adequate but not class-leading
  • • Firm ride on sport suspension or larger wheels

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Touring (F31): 2012 - 2015).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:3 Series
Generation:Sedan (F30)
Modification (Engine):325d (218 Hp) Steptronic
Start of production:2013
End of production:2015
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Engine systems:Start & Stop System
Power:218 Hp @ 4400 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:109.3 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:450 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:N47D20D More details about the engine N47D20D
Engine displacement:1995
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Twin-power turbo, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:5.2 l
Coolant:7 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm
Compression ratio:16.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:5.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:4.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):4.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):5.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):4.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:4.6 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:6.6 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:6.6 sec
Maximum speed:245 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.8 kg/Hp, 146.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.3 kg/Nm, 302 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.3 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1490
Max. weight:2050
Max. roof load:75 kg
Max load:560
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:480 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1800 kg
Fuel tank capacity:57 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:750 kg
Permitted towbar download:75 kg
Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%):1800 kg
Size:
Length:4624 mm [Same length.]
Width:1811 mm [Same width.]
Height:1429 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2810 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:2031 mm
Front track:1543 mm
Rear (Back) track:1583 mm
Front overhang:776 mm
Rear overhang:1038 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):140 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.3 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears8
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeSteptronic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 225/50 R17; 225/45 R18; 225/40 R19
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19
Front suspensionSpring Strut, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

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