BMW Group Australia has introduced a new entry level model 3 Series to take on the fight in the ‘bargain basement’ end of the luxury segment. Powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, the BMW 316i is priced from $50,900 plus on-road costs.
According to Phil Horton, BMW Group Australia’s Managing Director, the 316i sedan will be the most affordable automatic 3 Series sedan for almost 15 years.
“When you consider its generous standard specifications, the 316i represents the best value 3 Series sedan ever, and it will open the door to a new generation of BMW customers,” he said.
The 1.6-litre engine produces 100kW of power at 4,350rpm and 220Nm of torque at 1,350rpm and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. 0-100km/h is done in a leisurely 9.2 seconds. Its standard stop/start, brake energy regeneration and ECO PRO mode ensures the 316i sips just 5.9L/100km of fuel, while emitting just 137g/km of CO2.
Specification of the 316i is shared with the 318d sedan, and includes six airbags, dynamic braking lights, anti-dazzle interior mirror, rear park distance control, cruise control with braking function and rain sensor with automatic headlight control.
Inside, it features heat/sun protection glass, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, Sensatec man-made leather upholstery, leather multi-function steering wheel, 40:20:40 split rear backrest and Radio Professional which includes a 6.5-inch display controlled via an iDrive controller.
Like the rest of the 3 Series range, three lines are available on the 316i – Sport, Luxury and Modern lines.
The new BMW 316i sedan will arrive in showrooms from June 2013.
Model | Price (Excluding on-roads) |
BMW 316i | $50,900 |
BMW 318d | $56,400 |
BMW 320i | $58,600 |
BMW 320d | $60,900 |
BMW 328i | $65,900 |
BMW 335i | $91,400 |
BMW ActiveHybrid 3 | $97,700 |