The BMW 3 Series Sedan (F30) 328i Steptronic, produced from 2011 to 2015, represented a significant evolution in BMW’s long-running and highly successful 3 Series lineage. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the F30 generation, which spanned from 2011-2019, the 328i aimed to balance performance, efficiency, and luxury. It served as a popular choice for buyers seeking a sporty and refined sedan without the higher price tag of the top-tier 335i or 340i models. The F30 generation marked a departure from the E90, introducing a more sculpted exterior design, a revised chassis, and a new generation of engines. This particular variant, equipped with the N20 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, became a staple in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Sedan (F30) |
| Type (Engine) | 328i (245 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 147 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 168.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5000-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 122.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1250-4800 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4800 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 | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1455 kg (3207.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2005 kg (4420.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 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%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 745 kg (1642.44 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4624 mm (182.05 in.) |
| Width | 1811 mm (71.3 in.) |
| Height | 1429 mm (56.26 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 | 225/50 R17 94W |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 328i Steptronic is the BMW N20B20A 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key component of BMW’s EfficientDynamics philosophy, combining direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) technologies. The direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger minimizes turbo lag, providing a more responsive driving experience. The N20 engine produces 245 horsepower at 5,000-6,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1,250 and 4,800 rpm. This power is delivered to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, known as the Steptronic. This transmission features smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The transmission’s wide gear ratio spread allows for both efficient cruising and strong acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 328i Steptronic offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 335i, the 328i provided ample power for everyday driving and spirited excursions. The 8-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts compared to the more aggressive programming found in the sportier models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t always feel as eager to rev as it could. Compared to the 6-speed manual transmission available on other 328i models, the Steptronic prioritized ease of use and fuel economy over outright driver engagement. The chassis, shared with other F30 models, provided a good balance between comfort and handling, offering predictable and stable cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 328i Steptronic typically came standard with features such as leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a premium sound system, navigation, heated seats, a sunroof, and various driver assistance features like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The interior design was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics and build quality. Trim levels could vary depending on packages selected, but generally, the 328i offered a comfortable and well-equipped cabin.
Chassis & Braking
The F30 328i utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and performance, offering a compliant ride over most road surfaces. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and stability control systems enhanced safety and control. The 328i’s weight distribution, close to 50/50, contributed to its balanced handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 328i Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the character and punch of the 335i’s turbocharged inline-six. Compared to the 328i with a manual transmission, the Steptronic offered greater convenience but less driver involvement. In terms of fuel economy, the 328i Steptronic consistently outperformed the 335i, making it a more practical choice for daily commuting. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the N20 engine’s timing chain and cooling system.
Legacy
The BMW F30 328i Steptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and luxury makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a well-rounded sports sedan. While the N20 engine has been known to have some reliability concerns, proper maintenance can mitigate these issues. The 8-speed Steptronic transmission has proven to be durable and reliable. The F30 generation 3 Series, and the 328i in particular, helped solidify BMW’s reputation for building engaging and refined driving machines, and continues to be a benchmark in the compact executive sedan segment.
