The BMW 3 Series Touring (F31 LCI), specifically the 316d variant with 116 horsepower, represents a compelling entry point into the premium compact estate (station wagon) market. Produced from 2015 to 2019 as part of the F31 Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) facelift, this model aimed to balance practicality, fuel efficiency, and the BMW driving experience. It occupied the lower-mid range of the 3 Series Touring lineup, positioned below more powerful engine options like the 320d and 330i, and offered a more economical alternative to those prioritizing performance. The F31 generation, built on the F30 sedan platform, was BMW’s fifth iteration of the 3 Series Touring, continuing a tradition of blending sporting dynamics with increased cargo capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Touring (F31 LCI, Facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 316d (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5-4.9 l/100 km (42.8 – 48 US mpg, 51.4 – 57.6 UK mpg, 18.2 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0-3.7 l/100 km (58.8 – 63.6 US mpg, 70.6 – 76.3 UK mpg, 25 – 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-4.1 l/100 km (51.1 – 57.4 US mpg, 61.4 – 68.9 UK mpg, 21.7 – 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120-109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1250-2750 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1250-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B47D20 |
| 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 | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1500 l (52.97 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 | 4633 mm (182.4 in.) |
| Width | 1811 mm (71.3 in.) |
| Height | 1429 mm (56.26 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1583 mm (62.32 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 | 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 | 205/60 R16 92H |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 316d Touring LCI is powered by the BMW B47D20, a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder 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, contributing to improved combustion and reduced emissions. A single twin-scroll turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology provides boost, delivering 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1250 and 2750 rpm. The engine also features four valves per cylinder and a belt-driven overhead camshaft. The 316d was typically paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although an optional eight-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) was also available. The automatic transmission offered smoother shifts and enhanced fuel economy, but at a slight cost to responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 hp output of the 316d, coupled with the manual transmission, resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 10.6 seconds. While not particularly quick, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it feel more responsive in everyday driving situations. The manual gearbox provided a direct connection to the engine, allowing for precise control, but required more driver involvement than the automatic option. Compared to the more powerful 320d, the 316d felt noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. However, the 316d’s lighter weight and more modest power output contributed to better fuel economy and a more forgiving driving experience. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided balanced handling, typical of BMW vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 316d Touring LCI typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system, and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as Sport Line, Luxury Line, and M Sport, added features like sport seats, upgraded interior trim, alloy wheels, and parking sensors. Optional extras included navigation systems, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. The interior design of the F31 LCI was generally well-regarded for its quality materials and ergonomic layout.
Chassis & Braking
The F31 Touring featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to balance handling and ride quality, making it suitable for both city driving and long-distance journeys. The 316d typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 316d Touring LCI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient estate car. It was praised for its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics found the engine to be underpowered, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the 320d, the 316d offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 316d appealed to buyers who prioritized practicality and efficiency over outright speed.
Legacy
The B47 engine family, including the B47D20 found in the 316d, has proven to be relatively reliable, although some early examples experienced issues with timing chain wear. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. Today, the F31 316d Touring LCI represents a good value proposition in the used car market, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and the BMW brand prestige. Its relatively low running costs and comfortable driving experience make it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile and economical estate car.
