The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) 328i xDrive Steptronic was a five-door grand tourer produced by BMW from 2014 to 2016. Positioned as a more spacious and practical alternative to the standard 3 Series sedan and wagon, the Gran Turismo aimed to blend the driving dynamics expected of a BMW with increased passenger and cargo volume. The 328i variant, equipped with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Steptronic automatic transmission, represented a mid-range offering within the F34 lineup, balancing performance with everyday usability. It was built on the F30 3 Series platform, extended to provide a larger interior and a distinctive fastback profile.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) |
| Type | 328i (245 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Grand Tourer |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 210.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5000-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 122.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1250 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N20B20A |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.1 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2230 kg (4916.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4824 mm (189.92 in.) |
| Width | 1828 mm (71.97 in.) |
| Height | 1508 mm (59.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2920 mm (114.96 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 97W |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 328i Gran Turismo utilized BMW’s N20B20A 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a key component of BMW’s EfficientDynamics strategy, combining direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) technologies. The N20 engine produced 245 horsepower at 5,000-6,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque from as low as 1,250 rpm. This broad torque curve, coupled with the eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, provided responsive acceleration and effortless cruising. The Steptronic transmission offered both automatic shifting and manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 328i xDrive Gran Turismo offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its 3 Series siblings, the combination of the turbocharged engine and the eight-speed automatic provided ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The xDrive system instilled confidence in inclement weather. Compared to the six-cylinder 335i Gran Turismo, the 328i offered a more fuel-efficient and affordable option, albeit with slightly less outright performance. The automatic transmission, while smooth and responsive, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox. The Gran Turismo’s longer wheelbase and increased weight compared to the standard 3 Series sedan resulted in a slightly less agile feel, but the trade-off was a more comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 328i xDrive Gran Turismo came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display screen, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features like ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a larger iDrive display screen, a premium sound system, navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and various driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most customization occurring through the selection of individual options packages.
Chassis & Braking
The F34 Gran Turismo featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, tuned for a balance of comfort and handling. The 328i xDrive model typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The xDrive system added weight, necessitating slightly stiffer spring rates and dampers to maintain control. Steering was provided by an electric power steering system, offering precise and responsive feel. The Gran Turismo’s larger size and weight meant that it generally used slightly larger brake rotors and thicker stabilizer bars compared to the standard 3 Series sedan.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3 Series Gran Turismo, and specifically the 328i xDrive variant, received mixed reviews. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and practical hatchback design. However, some found its styling to be somewhat awkward and its driving dynamics to be less engaging than those of the standard 3 Series. Compared to the 328i sedan, the Gran Turismo offered more rear passenger space and cargo capacity, but at the expense of some agility. Fuel economy was comparable to other 2.0-liter turbocharged BMW models, and reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the iDrive system and electronic components.
Legacy
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) was discontinued after a relatively short production run. While it didn’t achieve the same sales success as the standard 3 Series, it carved out a niche for itself as a practical and comfortable grand tourer. The N20 engine, used in the 328i, proved to be a reliable and efficient powerplant, and examples continue to be found on the used car market today. The 328i xDrive Steptronic remains a viable option for buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and relatively fuel-efficient BMW with all-wheel-drive capability. Its blend of practicality and BMW driving dynamics continues to appeal to a segment of the market looking for something different from the traditional sedan or wagon.
