BMW 3 Series Sedan: Diesel Model Introduced in Japan

BMW 320d BluePerformance

BMW's Second Clean Diesel Model

Diesel Model Introduced for the 3 Series Sedan

BMW is introducing a clean diesel model, the "320d BluePerformance," to its core model, the "3 Series Sedan."Clean Diesel Model "320d BluePerformance"The model will be available for order in Japan starting on the 22nd, with deliveries beginning in September.

Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)

High-Performance Clean Diesel

The BMW 320d BluePerformance is equipped with a 2-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel engine, delivering a maximum output of 135kW (184ps) at 4,000rpm, comparable to the gasoline-powered 320i. However, it boasts a maximum torque of 380Nm (38.7kgm) at 1,750-2,750rpm, surpassing even the 328i.

BMW's "BluePerformance technology" encompasses a suite of innovations. This includes a "DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)" that traps particulate matter, the primary component of soot and black smoke, from exhaust gases. It also features an "NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) Storage Catalyst" which temporarily stores NOx from exhaust gases before reducing them to water, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide for emission. These technologies ensure exceptionally clean exhaust, a far cry from the image of older diesel engines.

Furthermore, it incorporates other eco-friendly technologies found in BMW models, such as a variable geometry turbocharger, brake energy regeneration system, an 8-speed automatic transmission, an engine auto start/stop function, and ECO PRO mode. This results in a fuel efficiency of 19.4 km/ℓ under the JC08 test cycle.

Priced from +¥200,000 over Gasoline Models

The lineup consists ofLike other 3 Series modelsfive variants: the basic 320d, plus three design lines – Sport, Modern, and Luxury – and the M Sport. The most basic "320d Blue Performance" is priced at ¥4,700,000, ¥200,000 more than the 320i (8AT) at ¥4,500,000. Additionally, the "Sport," "Modern," and "Luxury" lines are ¥4,900,000 each, and the "M Sport" is ¥5,140,000. All models feature an 8-speed automatic transmission and are available only in right-hand drive.

The 320d Blue Performance is eligible for eco-car tax reduction (100% exemption from acquisition tax and weight tax) and qualifies for subsidies under the "Incentive Program for Clean Energy Vehicle Introduction" promoted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, potentially receiving up to ¥90,000 in subsidies.

BMW positions the introduction of the 3 Series Sedan as the second phase following the "X5 35d BluePerformance" clean diesel,"X5 35d BluePerformance"and plans to sequentially expand the range of eligible models to include the 5 Series and 3 Series Touring.

spec

BMW 320d Blue Performance
Vehicle Dimensions: Length 4,625 x Width 1,800 x Height 1,440 mm
Wheelbase: 2,810mm
Tread (Front/Rear): 1,530/1,570mm
Minimum Ground Clearance: 140mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,550kg
Trunk Capacity: 480 liters
Engine: 2-liter inline 4-cylinder DOHC diesel with turbocharger
Maximum Output: 135kW (184ps) / 5,000rpm
Maximum Torque: 380Nm (38.7kgm) / 1,750-2,750rpm
Transmission: 8-speed AT
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Fuel Efficiency: 19.4km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions: 117g/km (Manufacturer's data)