BMW 330i review: a return to form

Can BMW’s revamped 3 series regain the top spot? The signs are good.

BMW 330i. From $70,900

The invitation to attend BMW’s launch for its new 3 Series came in a week that was awash with motoring bait. It’s like that in the run-up to the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix; every car company believes it’s the perfect time to stage an event.

Perhaps BMW knew, however, that it had a trump card. There’s simply no ignoring a new generation of the 3 because of its role in the automotive calculus. For years, it’s been the constant that defines two other variables: premium-ness and driving pleasure. It was the car a young executive aspired to, and the one they expected most to enjoy. In some markets, the 3 Series outsold more affordable mainstream models. In the UK some years ago it famously toppled the default rep mobile, Ford’s Mondeo.

However, that was then. The equivalent Mercedes, the C-Class, dethroned the 3 Series in Australia a decade ago and hasn’t looked back. It didn’t help that fresh iterations of the 3 Series departed from the formula in an attempt to please more comfort-oriented markets. The C-Class won over the critics as well as the consumers.

BMW 330i. From $70,900

Or at least the ones still buying sedans. The other factor in the sales performance of the 3 Series is the rise of the SUV. The traditional sedan has fallen out of fashion and that’s especially true among premium buyers, and even more especially true of BMW buyers. Six out of 10 BMWs bought in Australia are SUVs, and the most popular have relegated the 3 Series down the brand pecking order to third or even fourth.

So it’s surprising to learn that in global terms – on most recent numbers, at least – it remains BMW’s best-seller. But the trajectory is clear: the SUV will eventually usurp its role. In 2017 its two most popular SUVs, the X1 and X3, together outsold the 3 Series – something that didn’t happen the year before.

So it’s a diminished realm the seventh generation arrives to reclaim, although there’s no ambiguity about its ambition. BMW wants its dynamic halo back and headline changes to the 3 focus on sharpening its driving appeal.

It’s a longer and wider car than before but at least 25 per cent more rigid, allowing precise suspension tuning. The car rides lower and its suspension has been redesigned with new geometry, stiffer springs and clever continuously variable dampers using an innovative design. It also slips through the air more efficiently – partly thanks to a sealed underbody – and weighs up to 55kg less than before. Its 1.5 tonnes are evenly distributed between the axles.

BMW 330i. From $70,900

The launch engines include two turbocharged four-cylinder units, one diesel (320d) and one petrol (330i). The 330i has been priced and specced to be the more appealing of the two, with 19-inch alloys (instead of 18s), electronic damper control, a limited-slip rear differential and M Sport brakes added for a modest premium over the diesel.

On the road, the 330i is a crisper and more satisfying drive. It turns willingly into corners and settles cleanly on its suspension. It feels totally balanced and very driveable, with the potency of the turbo-petrol’s mid-range a nice match for the car’s dynamics. This fizzy 190W four would be a match for six-cylinder 3s of only a few years ago. At 5.8s to 100km/h, it moves quickly off the mark and has plenty in reserve for overtaking.

The rest of the car reinforces that positive impression. The cabin feels familiar although a little more special in its switchgear and modern metallic trim. The driving position is excellent, as you would expect, and the seats terrific. It is quieter and every bit as comfortable.

Caveats include a steering wheel rim that’s far too thick, and steering that feels oddly weighted except in comfort mode. BMW has finally succumbed to the trend for entirely virtual dials (debuted on the new X5), which are OK but the old analogue ones were better. The base of the A-pillars can obstruct through-corner vision – a complaint I wish I didn’t have to make here.

BMW 330i. From $70,900

Standard equipment now includes BMW’s excellent head-up display. Trick software brings in a digital personal assistant that responds to a “Hey BMW” prompt or pretty much any mention of the brand. Upgrades are downloadable. The embrace of autonomy includes an ability to counter-steer to keep you in the lane and hands-free highway driving for up to 25 seconds. In common with its rivals it bristles with warning systems about other traffic. It also features the reversing assistant from the new X5, which automatically steers you backwards out of tight spots.

It’s been a while since I looked at a BMW and went, “Wow!” Oddly, BMW has become the stodgy and conservative member of the German premium trio; the new 3 isn’t a thriller to look at in the style of, say the M2, and makes the mistake of being a bit busy in places. But it does reward lingering inspection, with an attractive front light-grille combination.

Most of the excitement comes, as it should, from behind the wheel. And in that respect, this 3 is a return to form.

Fast facts

Engine: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder (190kW/400Nm) Average fuel: 6.4 litres per 100km Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive Price: From $70,900