Three months ago we bought you the launch of the new BMW 3 Series Touring – or wagon to you and I – complete with the promise of all-wheel drive versions just around the corner.
Well, now those AWD – otherwise known as xDrive – versions of the sexy and capable wagon are here. We head down to Napier, via a night at Mt. Ruapehu along the way.
What is it?
Basically the same car we drove three months ago at the launch of the 3 Series Touring, apart from one major difference: all-wheel drive.
Well, okay, there is one other difference – engines. Whereas the sDrive line up is predominantly petrol, with the 318d being the only diesel representative among the, 320i, 328i and 335i, the xDrive range is dominated by diesels, with the 320i being the sole petrol engine alongside the 320d and 330d.
Other than this, dimensions and equipment levels are pretty much the same, so much so in fact, that you may as well click here for the Touring specs and prices…
What’s it like?
Remarkably good. It is hard not to approach the xDrive 3 Series with an attitude of RWD being the only way for ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine’ to be driven, but the xDrive version wastes no time in changing your mind on that matter.
Although only the 320d and 330d were available at the launch (the 320i is still on its way), it was actually a hard choice as to which was our favourite – the 330d is wonderfully powerful and rides a simply massive wave of torque, while the 320d has a wonderfully nimble, lithe feel to it that makes it a joy to throw around.
In short, the 320d dives eagerly into corners, while the 330d brutally punches its way out.
Turn in is as razor sharp as the RWD 3 Series, while its level of ability through corners (particularly on wet or gravel roads) is simply astonishing. The xDrive system uses the car’s various sensors to be proactive, rather than reactive, meaning that, while it is ostensibly 40 percent front/60 percent rear drive, it is in reality constantly adjusting where the drive goes.
The end result is a car that – if you play close attention – you can feel constantly adjusting itself flawlessly, sending the torque where it is needed in the blink of an eye and perfectly anticipated.
As a result, the stability control system intervenes far less than the sDrive versions, making for effortless, smooth progress that feels like it is down to an excellent driver. Rather, it is down to a very clever car that flatters the driver…
What’s good about it?
The car’s remarkable ability on the road, particularly in wet conditions or on gravel. It is incredibly confident and composed, as well as maintaining the traditional 3 Series attributes of sharp handling and fantastic build quality, as well as the impressive ride seen that was a feature of the latest 3 Series sedan.
What’s not so good?
Some of the interior plastics aren’t quite up to the standard of the rest of the materials in a few places.
First impressions?
Damn good. The addition of the xDrive 4WD system (and the associated weight) takes literally nothing away from the 3 Series Touring and brings a whole load of added dynamic ability.
The feeling of massive competence and utter confidence the xDrive Touring imparts is hugely impressive, especially in adverse conditions, while still remaining all the traditional BMW RWD qualities. Except for driftiness…
Specifications
Models/prices
320i xDrive – $83,800
320d xDrive – $84,400
330d xDrive – $112,500
Powertrain
2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol producing 135kW/270Nm; eight-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive (320i), 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder diesel producing 135kW/380Nm; eight-speed automatic transmission; four-wheel drive (320d), 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel producing 190kW/560Nm; eight-speed automatic transmission; four-wheel drive (330d)
Fuel consumption: 6.5l/100km (320i xDrive), 4.5l/100km (320d xDrive), 5.4l/100km (330d xDrive)
CO2 emissions: 152g/km (320i xDrive), 117g/km (320d xDrive), 142g/km (330d xDrive)
Safety
ANCAP/EuroNCAP rating: 5 star
Air bags: 6
Stability control: yes
Lap/diagonal belts: 5
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