The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) 320i, produced from 2013 to 2016, represented BMW’s attempt to blend the practicality of a hatchback with the driving dynamics expected of the 3 Series. Positioned as a more spacious and versatile alternative to the standard 3 Series sedan and wagon, the Gran Turismo aimed to appeal to buyers needing extra cargo capacity and rear passenger room. The 320i variant, powered by the N20B20B 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower, served as the entry point into the Gran Turismo range, offering a balance of efficiency and acceptable performance. It occupied the lower-mid range of the F34 lineup, sitting below the more powerful 328i and 335i models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) |
| Type (Engine) | 320i (184 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Grand Tourer |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 119.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5000-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1250-4500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N20B20B |
| 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 | 11:1 |
| 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 | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 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%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 695 kg (1532.21 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) | 11.8 m (38.71 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 | 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 | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 97V |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) 320i, launched in 2013, was a unique offering within the 3 Series lineup. Built on the F30 3 Series platform, the F34 extended the wheelbase and roofline to create a more spacious and practical vehicle. The 320i variant, equipped with the N20B20B engine and a six-speed manual transmission (an eight-speed automatic was also available), was designed to provide a comfortable and efficient driving experience. It aimed to attract buyers who desired the BMW badge and driving dynamics but needed more interior space than the standard 3 Series sedan could offer. Production of the F34 320i continued until 2016, when the Gran Turismo range was revised.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 320i Gran Turismo lies the N20B20B 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key member of BMW’s modular engine family, utilizing direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The N20 engine is known for its responsiveness and relatively smooth power delivery. The 320i’s engine produced 184 horsepower at 5000-6250 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1250 and 4500 rpm. The six-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, while the optional eight-speed automatic provided smooth and efficient gear changes. The automatic transmission featured steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual control. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel drive configuration contribute to the car’s balanced handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 320i Gran Turismo, with its 184 hp and rear-wheel drive, offered a respectable, though not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 7.5 seconds. The engine’s peak torque, available from a low 1250 rpm, provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving situations. Compared to the more powerful 328i or 335i Gran Turismo models, the 320i felt less urgent in its acceleration. The six-speed manual transmission allowed for greater driver engagement, while the eight-speed automatic prioritized fuel efficiency and smooth operation. 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 well-tuned suspension maintained a comfortable ride quality.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 320i Gran Turismo came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Typical features included automatic climate control, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display screen, power-adjustable front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Optional extras included a larger 8.8-inch iDrive screen with navigation, a premium sound system, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and various driver assistance systems such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most customization occurring through the selection of individual options packages.
Chassis & Braking
The F34 320i Gran Turismo utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The suspension was tuned to accommodate the car’s increased weight and longer wheelbase. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The steering system employed an electric power steering system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3 Series Gran Turismo, including the 320i variant, received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, it was often criticized for its styling, which some found awkward. The 320i, in particular, was seen as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and affordability. Compared to the 328i, the 320i offered lower running costs but lacked the same level of performance. The 320d (diesel) variant was often favored in European markets due to its superior fuel efficiency and torque. In the US market, the 320i Gran Turismo was less common, with the 328i and 335i being more popular choices.
Legacy
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) 320i, while not a sales blockbuster, remains a relatively reliable and practical vehicle in the used car market. The N20 engine is generally considered robust, although it’s important to check for proper maintenance records, particularly regarding oil changes and cooling system upkeep. Common issues include oil leaks and potential problems with the timing chain. The eight-speed automatic transmission is known for its durability. The F34’s spacious interior and comfortable ride continue to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and refined vehicle. Its unique blend of hatchback practicality and BMW driving dynamics makes it a distinctive offering in the used car landscape.
