BMW 3 Series Touring (E46, facelift 2001) 320d (150 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 330 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.7 l/100km). With a weight of 1505 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.5 s). The top speed reaches 208 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.

320d (150 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Strong mid-range torque provides confident acceleration, with the automatic transmission adding convenience for daily use.

Fuel Economy

Very good fuel economy for an automatic diesel, offering a practical balance for mixed driving.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving / Commuting

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(Sedan (E46): 2000 - 2001).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:3 Series
Generation:Touring (E46, facelift 2001)
Modification (Engine):320d (150 Hp) Steptronic
Start of production:2001
End of production:2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:150 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:75.2 Hp/l [9mm more]
Torque:330 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M47D20 More details about the engine M47D20
Engine displacement:1995
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:5.5 l
Coolant:9.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm
Compression ratio:17:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.1 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.5 sec
Maximum speed:208 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:10 kg/Hp, 99.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.6 kg/Nm, 219.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1505
Max. weight:2005
Max load:500
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1345 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:435 l
Fuel tank capacity:63 l
Size:
Length:4480 mm [9mm more]
Width:1740 mm [1mm more]
Height:1410 mm [5mm less]
Wheelbase:2725 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1470 mm
Rear (Back) track:1485 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
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 size205/55 R16
Wheel rims size7J x 16
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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