BMW Launches 320i, the Core Grade of the 3 Series, in Japan
BMW 320i
The Core 3 Series Model, Now in Japan
BMW has launched the "320i Sedan," the heart of its core 3 Series model line. Pricing starts at 3.99 million yen, with deliveries scheduled to begin in mid-May 2012.
Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)
Improved Power and Environmental Performance
BMW has announced the addition of the 320i, its most popular grade within the "3 Series Sedan" lineup, to the range.Debut in October 2011and alreadyThe 328i Launched in Japan in JanuaryThe 3 Series, which debuted in October 2011, now sees the 320i join the lineup. While equipped with the same 2-liter four-cylinder engine, it boasts a maximum output of 135kW (184ps) at 5,000rpm and peak torque of 270Nm (27.5kgm) at 1,250-4,500rpm. This represents a 10% increase in maximum output and a 30% increase in torque compared to the previous generation 320i.
In Japan, the "320i SE," which omits features like bi-xenon headlights and Park Distance Control, is priced at 3.99 million yen. The AT version of the basic "320i" is 4.5 million yen (4.39 million yen for MT), and the Sport/Luxury/Modern lines are 4.59 million yen for AT (4.70 million yen for MT). Except for the SE, which is only available with right-hand drive and an AT transmission, customers can choose between an 8-speed AT and a 6-speed MT.
Like the 328i, environmental performance has also been improved through features such as the 8-speed AT, Engine Auto Start/Stop system, and Brake Energy Regeneration. Fuel economy is rated at 16.6 km/ℓ under the JC08 mode, a 20% improvement over the previous model. All models are eligible for eco-car subsidies and tax reductions. The 320i SE and 320i receive a 75% reduction in acquisition tax and weight tax, while the Sport/Luxury/Modern lines receive a 100% reduction.

BMW 320i
Vehicle Dimensions: Length 4,625 x Width 1,800 x Height 1,440 mm
Wheelbase: 2,810 mm
Tread (Front/Rear): 1,530 / 1,570 mm
Minimum Ground Clearance: 140 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,480 kg (MT), 1,500 kg (AT)
Trunk Capacity: 480 liters
Engine: 2-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged
Maximum Output: 135 kW (184 ps) / 5,000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 270 Nm (27.5 kgm) / 1,250-4,500 rpm
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 7.3 seconds (MT), 7.6 seconds (AT) *Manufacturer's figures
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Fuel Economy: 16.0 km/ℓ (MT), 16.6 km/ℓ (AT)
CO2 Emissions: 147-144 g/km (MT), 141-138 g/km (AT) *Manufacturer's figures

