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BMW 3 Series Touring (E91 LCI, facelift 2008) 325i (218 Hp) xDrive Steptronic
Overall Rating
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 (E91 LCI, facelift 2008) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Touring (E91 LCI, facelift 2008)). With 270 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1660 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 240 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.
325i (218 Hp) xDrive Steptronic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Smooth power delivery with the comfort of an automatic and the grip of xDrive, suitable for relaxed all-weather driving.
Fuel Economy
Higher fuel consumption due to the combination of xDrive and automatic transmission.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging and dynamic driving experience
- • Wide range of powerful and efficient engines (petrol and diesel)
- • Practical and spacious Touring body style
- • Premium interior quality and build
- • Available xDrive AWD for enhanced traction
Cons:
- • Firm ride on sport suspension can be uncomfortable on rough roads
- • Some engine-specific reliability concerns (e.g., N47 timing chain, N54 HPFP)
- • Rear legroom can be tight for taller adults
- • Potentially expensive maintenance and parts costs
- • Older infotainment system compared to newer models
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Coupe (E92): 2007 - 2010).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Touring (E91 LCI, facelift 2008) |
| Modification (Engine): | 325i (218 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production: | 2008 |
| End of production: | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 218 Hp @ 6100 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 72.8 Hp/l [53mm less] |
| Torque: | 270 Nm @ 2400-4200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | N53B30A More details about the engine N53B30A |
| Engine displacement: | 2996 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 8.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 85 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 88 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 12:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.3 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 5 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 240 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.1 kg/Nm, 162.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.7 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1660 |
| Max. weight: | 2200 |
| Max. roof load: | 75 kg |
| Max load: | 540 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1385 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 460 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1700 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Permitted towbar download: | 75 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4527 mm mm [53mm less] |
| Width: | 1817 mm mm [37mm more] |
| Height: | 1418 mm mm [18mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2760 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width with mirrors folded: | 1989 mm |
| Front track: | 1506 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1535 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 140 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.8 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 91W |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
Does the BMW 3 Series live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!