The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) LCI, specifically the 320i xDrive variant produced from 2016 to 2020, represents 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 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift brought styling updates and revised engine options, including this 184 horsepower, all-wheel-drive configuration. This model occupied a mid-range position within the Gran Turismo lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, and serving as a more accessible entry point compared to the higher-output 330i and 340i models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34 LCI, Facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 320i (184 Hp) xDrive |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Grand Tourer |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.0-8.6 l/100 km (26.1 – 27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9-5.6 l/100 km (39.9 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1-6.7 l/100 km (33.1 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 161-154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 227 km/h (141.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 110.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 162.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1350-4600 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1350-4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B48B20A |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 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 | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 | 8.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 320i xDrive Gran Turismo is BMW’s B48B20A 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and performance. It utilizes direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) technologies to optimize power delivery and fuel economy. The B48 engine produces 184 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1350 and 4600 rpm. This torque curve provides good low-end responsiveness, making it suitable for everyday driving. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, sending power to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The xDrive system is primarily rear-wheel drive biased, intelligently distributing torque to the front wheels when traction is needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 320i xDrive Gran Turismo offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its 3 Series siblings, the 184 hp engine provides adequate performance for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.7 seconds. The six-speed manual transmission offers precise shifts, but the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright acceleration. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the more powerful 330i and 340i Gran Turismo models, the 320i feels less urgent in its acceleration, but it offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 320i xDrive Gran Turismo came standard with a respectable level of equipment. Standard features typically included automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display screen, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a larger iDrive display screen, navigation system, premium audio system, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most options being added individually. The interior typically featured a dark wood trim and cloth upholstery, although leather was available as an upgrade.
Chassis & Braking
The F34 Gran Turismo utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling. The 320i xDrive models typically featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The Gran Turismo’s wider track compared to the standard 3 Series sedan contributes to improved stability and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3 Series Gran Turismo, including the 320i xDrive variant, received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, it was often criticized for its somewhat awkward styling and higher price compared to the standard 3 Series models. The 320i xDrive offered a good balance of fuel economy and performance, achieving around 33-35 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 328i (later 330i) Gran Turismo, the 320i offered lower running costs but less exhilarating performance. The 320d diesel variant was also a popular choice in Europe, offering even better fuel economy.
Legacy
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) was discontinued in 2020, replaced by the more conventionally styled 3 Series Touring (wagon). The B48 engine, however, continues to be used in a wide range of BMW models and has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant. On the used car market, the 320i xDrive Gran Turismo represents a relatively affordable entry point into BMW ownership, offering a spacious and comfortable vehicle with all-wheel-drive capability. While not a performance bargain, it provides a practical and refined driving experience for those prioritizing comfort and versatility.
