The BMW 3 Series Touring (G21) 320e, produced from July 2020 to 2022, represents BMW’s entry into the plug-in hybrid estate (wagon) market. Positioned within the broader G21 3 Series Touring range, the 320e combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality. It’s part of the sixth generation of the 3 Series Touring, built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, and aimed at buyers seeking a more environmentally conscious alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles without sacrificing the driving experience associated with the 3 Series. The ‘e’ designation signifies its plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Touring (G21) |
| Type | 320e (204 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | July, 2020 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.5-2.2 l/100 km (156.8 – 106.9 US mpg, 188.3 – 128.4 UK mpg, 66.7 – 45.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 35-49 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 1.9-2.1 l/100 km (123.8 – 112 US mpg, 148.7 – 134.5 UK mpg, 52.6 – 47.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 43-49 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 219 km/h (136.08 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 12 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 354 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| Recuperation output | 20 kW |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 46-57 km (28.58 – 35.42 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 17.3-19.5 kWh/100 km (27.84 – 31.38 kWh/100 mi, 121 – 107 MPGe, 5.8 – 5.1 km/kWh, 3.6 – 3.2 mi/kWh) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 16-16.4 kWh/100 km (25.75 – 26.39 kWh/100 mi, 131 – 128 MPGe, 6.3 – 6.1 km/kWh, 3.9 – 3.8 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 113 Hp @ 3170 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 100-2500 rpm) |
| Electric motor Torque | 265 Nm @ 100-2500 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 204 Hp |
| System torque | 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5000-6500 rpm (81.6 Hp/l) |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1350-3700 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1350-3700 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 | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l (5.55 US qt | 4.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.8 l (10.36 US qt | 8.62 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2425 kg (5346.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1420 l (50.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4709 mm (185.39 in.) |
| Width | 1827 mm (71.93 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2068 mm (81.42 in.) |
| Height | 1442 mm (56.77 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2851 mm (112.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1573 mm (61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Front overhang | 799 mm (31.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1059 mm (41.69 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the four wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW 3 Series Touring (G21) 320e, launched in July 2020, is a plug-in hybrid variant of the popular 3 Series wagon. It’s designed to appeal to buyers who want the practicality of a Touring model with reduced emissions and the ability to drive short distances on electric power alone. The 320e sits in the mid-range of the G21 lineup, offering a compromise between the more affordable 320i and the higher-performance 330e. It utilizes BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions. The model was discontinued in 2022, likely due to BMW’s ongoing development of its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 320e is BMW’s B48B20A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 163 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. It features direct fuel injection, a twin-power turbocharger, and BMW’s VALVETRONIC variable valve timing system for optimized efficiency and responsiveness. The engine is paired with an 80 kW (113 hp) electric motor integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The electric motor delivers 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output is 204 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the rear seats, providing an all-electric range of 46-57 kilometers (28.6-35.4 miles) according to WLTP testing. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic, specifically tuned to work seamlessly with both the gasoline engine and electric motor, offering smooth shifts and efficient power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 320e offers a distinct driving experience compared to its gasoline-only and higher-output plug-in hybrid siblings. In electric mode, the car provides near-silent acceleration and instant torque, making it ideal for city driving. When the gasoline engine kicks in, the transition is generally smooth, although some drivers may notice a slight change in engine note. The combined power output provides adequate acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.8 seconds. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures confident handling in all weather conditions. Compared to the 330e, the 320e feels less overtly sporty, prioritizing efficiency and comfort over outright performance. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-programmed, offering quick and precise shifts, but it may not be as engaging for drivers who prefer more control. The gear ratios are optimized for both electric and hybrid driving, providing a balance of acceleration and fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 320e typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium vehicle. Standard features included BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of cloth and Sensatec (BMW’s synthetic leather). Optional extras included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that added convenience, comfort, or aesthetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The 320e utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to balance handling and comfort, offering a good compromise for everyday driving. Brakes are ventilated discs all around, providing ample stopping power. The added weight of the battery pack and electric motor compared to the standard 3 Series models necessitates a slightly firmer suspension setup to maintain handling balance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 320e was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as the 330e. Compared to the 320i, the 320e offered significantly better fuel economy and the ability to drive short distances on electric power, but at a higher price point. Compared to the 330e, it provided a more affordable entry point into the plug-in hybrid 3 Series range, but with less overall power and performance. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The BMW 320e represents an important step in BMW’s transition towards electrification. While it has been discontinued, it paved the way for future plug-in hybrid models in the 3 Series lineup. On the used car market, the 320e offers a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and well-equipped luxury wagon. The powertrain, while not without its complexities, has proven to be relatively reliable, and the availability of spare parts is generally good. The 320e’s combination of practicality, efficiency, and BMW’s renowned driving dynamics ensures its continued appeal to a wide range of buyers.
