The BMW 3 Series Touring (E30) 325iX Automatic, produced from 1988 to 1993, represents a unique offering within the E30 generation. As the first all-wheel-drive 3 Series wagon, it combined the practicality of the Touring body style with BMW’s renowned engineering and the added security of xDrive. This variant occupied a niche position in the lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile, all-weather performance vehicle. It was positioned as a premium option, above the base 325i Touring but below the higher-performance M3, offering a blend of comfort, capability, and BMW’s signature driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Touring (E30, facelift 1987) |
| Type (Engine) | 325iX (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1988 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 125.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 222 Nm @ 4300 rpm (163.74 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M20B25 |
| Engine displacement | 2494 cm3 (152.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1125 l (39.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4325 mm (170.28 in.) |
| Width | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 VR14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 325iX Automatic is powered by the BMW M20B25 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine, a staple of the E30 generation, features a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. It utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering a respectable 170 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 222 Nm (163.74 lb-ft) of torque at 4300 rpm. The engine’s valvetrain consists of two valves per cylinder, operated by a single overhead camshaft. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, specifically designed to handle the increased torque output of the M20B25 and the demands of the all-wheel-drive system. This transmission, while providing convenience, does result in slightly slower acceleration times compared to the manual transmission equipped models.
Driving Characteristics
The 325iX Automatic offers a distinct driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction, particularly in inclement weather, making it a more confident performer on slippery surfaces. However, the added weight of the AWD components and the inherent efficiency losses of the automatic transmission contribute to slightly slower acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 11.1 seconds. The automatic gearbox, while smooth, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the manual. Power delivery is linear, typical of BMW inline-six engines, but the automatic transmission’s shift points can sometimes feel less responsive than a skilled driver might achieve with a manual gearbox. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of fuel economy and usability, rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 325iX Automatic came reasonably well-equipped for its time. Standard features typically included power windows, power locks, and a sunroof. The interior featured cloth upholstery, although leather was available as an option. The dashboard layout is typical of the E30, with a straightforward design and easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras included a premium sound system, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. The Touring body style itself added to the practicality, with a spacious cargo area accessible through a rear tailgate.
Chassis & Braking
The E30 325iX utilizes a coil spring suspension system at both the front and rear. The all-wheel-drive system necessitated a more robust chassis and suspension setup to handle the increased weight and torque. The front brakes are discs, while the rear brakes are also discs, providing adequate stopping power. The 325iX was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering is hydraulic power steering, offering a good balance of assistance and feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 325iX Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its all-weather capability and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted the slightly slower acceleration compared to the rear-wheel-drive 325i and the more engaging manual transmission. Fuel economy was considered average for the time, with combined figures around 23.8 US mpg. Compared to the 325i, the 325iX offered superior traction and stability, but at the cost of some performance and fuel efficiency. Compared to the higher-performance M3, the 325iX was a more practical and comfortable daily driver, lacking the M3’s track-focused capabilities.
Legacy
The BMW E30 325iX Automatic holds a special place in BMW history as the first all-wheel-drive 3 Series wagon. While not as common as other E30 variants, it has gained a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique combination of practicality, performance, and all-weather capability. The M20B25 engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. However, like all E30s, rust can be a concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Today, well-maintained examples of the 325iX Automatic are becoming increasingly collectible, appealing to those seeking a classic BMW with a unique character.
