The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) 320d, produced from 2015 to 2016, represents BMW’s attempt to blend the practicality of a hatchback with the perceived prestige of the 3 Series sedan. Positioned as a more spacious and versatile alternative to the standard 3 Series Touring (wagon) and sedan, the Gran Turismo aimed to appeal to buyers needing extra cargo capacity and rear passenger room. This particular 320d variant, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 190 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the F34 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and cost. It was designed to compete with premium hatchbacks and smaller crossovers in the European market, where diesel engines were – and continue to be – highly favored.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) |
| Type (Engine) | 320d (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Grand Tourer |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 – 5.7 l/100 km (42.8 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 – 4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 – 4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 – 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B47D20A |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 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 | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 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 | 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) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 97V; 225/50 R18; 255/45 R18; 225/45 R19; 255/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 9J x 18; 8J x 19; 9J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 320d Gran Turismo is BMW’s B47D20A 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. The B47 utilizes a second-generation common rail direct injection system operating at pressures up to 2,000 bar, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. A single twin-scroll turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology provides a broad torque curve and minimizes turbo lag. The engine also features an intercooler to further enhance performance. The 320d was typically paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although an eight-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option. The automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency, contributed to the car’s overall refinement.
Driving Characteristics
The 320d Gran Turismo, with its 190 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, offered respectable performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 7.4 seconds, making it adequately quick for everyday driving and highway merging. The engine’s peak torque, available from 1750-2500 rpm, provided strong mid-range acceleration, making overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. Compared to the more powerful 328i or 335i Gran Turismo models, the 320d prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience, while the optional automatic provided greater convenience, particularly in urban environments. The Gran Turismo’s increased weight compared to the standard 3 Series sedan was noticeable, resulting in slightly less agile handling, but the well-tuned suspension provided a comfortable and composed ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 320d Gran Turismo came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display screen. Upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as upgrades. Common optional extras included a larger iDrive screen, navigation system, premium sound system, panoramic sunroof, and adaptive headlights. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally included Sport, Luxury, and M Sport packages, each adding unique styling cues and additional features. The Sport package typically included sport seats, sport suspension, and unique alloy wheels, while the Luxury package focused on enhanced interior comfort and trim.
Chassis & Braking
The F34 Gran Turismo utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension was tuned to accommodate the car’s increased weight and provide a stable and predictable driving experience. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs all around, offering ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The Gran Turismo’s steering was precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. The car’s wider track compared to the standard 3 Series sedan contributed to improved stability and cornering grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, and specifically the 320d variant, received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, versatile cargo area, and comfortable ride, it was often criticized for its somewhat awkward styling and higher price compared to the standard 3 Series Touring. The 320d’s fuel economy was a major selling point, achieving combined figures of around 49 mpg. Compared to the 328i Gran Turismo, the 320d offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the same level of performance. The 320d also proved to be more reliable than some of the more complex and higher-output engines in the lineup, making it a popular choice for buyers prioritizing long-term ownership costs.
Legacy
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo was discontinued in 2016, replaced by the more conventionally styled 3 Series Touring. However, the 320d variant remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. The B47 engine has proven to be a durable and reliable unit, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of trouble-free service. The Gran Turismo’s spacious interior and practical hatchback design continue to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and comfortable premium vehicle. While not a mainstream success, the F34 320d Gran Turismo represents an interesting and somewhat niche offering from BMW, blending practicality with a touch of luxury.
