Test BMW 3 Series Touring 320d 190 HP G21 M Sport

Today in our test section we come to talk to you about a type of car that, despite the commitment to SUVs and/or electrified vehicles, continues to make a lot of sense in the market. We tested a high-quality family sedan, which also has a diesel engine under its hood. I present to you BMW 3 Series Touring in its 320d version.

Today there is still space for this type of vehicle. Not everyone likes off-road-style bodywork, nor does everyone need that added height. The interior space, the trunk capacity and the best ride in practically all kinds of circumstances make this family a more than recommended product. The rivals of the 3 Series Touring are still the A4 Avant of Audi, the C-Class Estate of Mercedes and the V60 from Volvo.

Elegant, familiar and sporty

The front of this BMW "ranchera" traces the saloon body. So, we have a large double kidney active grill with chrome edges, elegant LED headlights (optionally LED laser) appearing on the sides. Thanks to M Sport package we receive a more dynamic aesthetic, mainly due to the shape of the bumper. In any case, it does not lose a bit of its elegance.

This BMW 3 Series Touring, known internally under the code G21, derives directly from the 3 series saloon, with code G20. As in the vast majority of relatives, the front part is identical to that of its four-door brother.

If we go to laterallogically the back half of his silhouette changes completely. The roof extends much further and ends at the tailgate. However, I would like to highlight the strong stress line in the lower area of the front fender and doors, as well as the elegant beltline. In this case, the outlines of the windows are in black and we also have 18-inch two-tone multi-spoke wheels.

To finish off with the outside, the rear area is very clean with rectangular LED pilot lights on the outside but with an L-shaped light signature. The opening of the trunk is wide and it also has a folding rear window, the hallmark of the BMW relatives. Finish off the lower area with a bright “diffuser” and two eye-catching, chromed, real circular exhaust outlets. Much appreciated for the latter, sincerely.

By the way, outside dimensions of this new BMW 3 Series Touring are 4,71 meters long, 1,83 wide, 1,44 high and its wheelbase is 2,85 meters. It grows in all dimensions compared to the previous model.

The interior of the BMW 3 Series Touring exudes quality and is intuitive

For a long time we have been saying that BMW is standing out for good in its quality interior, something that penalized not so long ago. In fact, from my point of view, is above Audi and feels far superior to Mercedes. Perhaps Volvo is the only one that approaches the Bavarian firm in that sense.

It is true that the digital instrument cluster could be more customizable and have a more accomplished design, but that is only what BMW can be blamed for. The center dash screen is large (12 inches) and looks good. But the best thing is that, in addition to being tactile, it can be controlled using the rotary knob on the center console and the quick access buttons. All very intuitive, simple and without distractions. I like it.

The air conditioning is also easy to operate.

But going back to quality, all the materials are of very good touch, with soft finishes in some parts and more rigid areas in other elements. Visually, the combination of that aluminum-style finish in contrast to black is a success. In addition, the absence of noise or creaking stands out even when pressing on the corners, which are usually the most sensitive areas.

The upholstery of the doors, the adjustments of the dashboard, the touch of the steering wheel and of all the buttons and controls They are very nice. Although I have said it before, I have to repeat it: BMW is above Audi and creates more accomplished interiors in terms of quality than Mercedes.

Also note that our unit has power seats with multiple regulations and heating, lumbar and width adjustment, as well as (manual) extension of the bench seat to better hold our legs regardless of our height. yes, i see a fault that the seat belt cannot be adjusted.

How's the space going?

And as far as space is concerned, the front seats are wide enough and adjustable so that two plus-sized adults can travel comfortably, without feeling like they are too close together or that they lack space. Regarding the driving position, and despite being in a "ranchera", we go close to the ground and with our legs stretched out; putting that sports point in the position so usual in BMW.

Meanwhile, access to the second row is slightly better in this BMW 3 Series Touring than in the sedan, as the shape of the roof helps in this regard. Once inside, there is good space for the knees and feet, as well as for the head in the side seats, with the central seat being of little use. In any case, in this sense There are no big differences compared to a Audi A4 or Mercedes C-Class.

And to finish off these rear seats, we have air vents with temperature regulation (tri-zone climate control), two USB type C sockets, nets to leave objects or magazines on the backrests, a practical curtain on the side windows and central armrest. Do we see the cargo space?

And how is your trunk?

If we open the automatic gate of the BMW 3 Series Touring G21 we find exactly 500 liters capacity. They are only 20 more than in the four-door model, but the practicality of this boot is far superior when it comes to loading and unloading, especially when it comes to large objects.

It should also be noted that the shapes are more usable for "playing Tetris" with the luggage and that we have a roll-up and removable tray to load up to the ceiling. Indeed, even in the trunk the upholstery is good and pleasant to the touch. There are some hooks, nets and the possibility of folding down the rear seats from this part.

Diesel, gasoline and PHEV, choose the one you want

Changing the subject and going to the engines, this 3 Series Touring is available with diesel, gasoline and plug-in hybrid engines. They all carry the eco sticker from the DGT for having a mild hybrid support system, except for the PHEV variant which, due to its electric autonomy, makes the leap to badge 0 Emissions of the General Directorate of Traffic.

En diesel we have the options 318d, 320d, 330d and M340d, developing 150, 190, 286 and 340 CV respectively. Meanwhile in gasoline variants are offered 320i and 330i with 184 and 258 hp. The option plug-in hybrid is called 330e, with a joint power of no less than 292 CV, giving 184 CV the gasoline engine and 113 the electric one.

By the way, the German brand has already confirmed that during Next year a BMW M3 Touring will hit the market, with all the features of the M models and the practicality and versatility of this family body. Thus, it will fight face to face with the Audi RS 4 and Mercedes-AMG C 63 Estate.

Behind the wheel of the BMW 3 Series Touring

We opted for the 320d

For this test we have opted for a version with a long tradition in the BMW 3 Series, the 320d. It means that under the hood we have a 2-liter turbodiesel engine placed in a longitudinal position. This version offers 190 hp at 4.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 1.750 and 2.500.

Its combined approved consumption is between 4,8 and 5,2 l/100 km depending on the equipment. Also, according to its data sheet, it covers 0 to 100 in 7,1 seconds and its maximum speed is at a not inconsiderable 230 km/h.

For normal use of a Series 3 Touring will be the most reasonable variant of the entire range. An engine with enough torque to travel comfortably with the family and with adjusted consumption. There will be no lack of power in practically any situation.

If we are usually going to drive loaded and on two-way roads with a lot of traffic, maybe we could make the jump to the 330d. Meanwhile, if we will practically always drive on highways and expressways, even the 318 hp 150d can be interesting.

In addition, its operation is smooth, not being rough as it happened in diesel engines of a few years ago. Logically it is not as refined and quiet as the gasoline options, but in recent times these aspects have been improved both by the operation of the engine itself, and by the insulation of the passenger compartment.

The M Sport package offers a more dynamic set-up

For the rest, the 3 Series Touring shows comfort when we travel, but also offers that spicy touch that many brands are losing. Be careful, it is rear-wheel drive, but with the big tires it has and the set-up it is not a car to slide out of the corners. Have a neutral behavior with a certain tendency to understeer at the entrance to the curve and to round slightly at the exit of the same.

In addition, the feel of the steering wheel and its quick steering with a good weight encourage you to give yourself some other joy through twisty sections. Logically, when fully accelerating the engine and its sound, they do show that nature of a diesel cycle, but at the end of the day, let's not forget that it is a family model. Another aspect to note is that support changes occur almost instantaneously, with less inertia than its main rivals and compatriots. It is in these details that BMW convinces its customers for life.

When wandering around, you have to keep in mind that the 3 Series is no longer a car of less than 4 and a half meters, as it was a couple of decades ago. Now it measures 4,7 long and 1,8 wide (not counting the mirrors). Yes, it's like a BMW 5 Series from not so long ago. That is why you have to be careful in the narrowest streets of some cities, and especially in some car parks.

But putting that aside, heThe gearbox and the engine allow maneuvering smoothly and without jerks, making our lives much easier. That partnership between engine and transmission is very successful, being smooth when we go at low speed, but offering quick and effective changes when we want it.

Consumption with the BMW 320d Touring

I said before that this version stood out for offering fairly tight consumption. To give you an idea, throughout our test it has settled for a mixed consumption of 5,7 liters per 100. Of course, without any consideration to spend little fuel.

It is true that wandering around it moves around 7 liters; Thinking about it, it is not so much if we take into account that we have a large, heavy car with very wide tires. So where it stands out the most is on fast roads, being able to see records of between 4,5 and 4,8 l/100 km at legal speeds.

Conclusions

Without a doubt, in this case we have to ask ourselves if new technologies and body styles suit all users. In the end, with this vehicle we have had a high ride quality, comfort, a slightly dynamic set-up, very contained consumption for traveling and a great load capacity. Is it really necessary to always buy an SUV? I think you already know the answer...

Of course, we are with a premium brand model, and that is paid for. It has a lot of quality, brand image and technology, so the price is high. Below we leave you the main equipment, as well as the official price of each mechanical version according to the configurator of BMW.

Equipment BMW 3 Series Touring

Serial

17-inch wheels
Fabric upholstery
Matte gray interior trim
Climate
BMW Live Cockpit Professional
Leather multifunction steering wheel
parking distance sensors
Cruise control with braking
Active Guard Plus
Connected Drive Services
Connected Package Professional
DAB digital radio
Auto-dimming interior mirror

Sport

Specific 17-inch wheels
Fabric/Sensatec Combination
Gloss black interior trim
Sports seats for driver and passenger
Lumbar adjustment and width of the front seats
Ambient light
M exterior trim finishers in gloss black
Larger capacity fuel tank
Specific exterior kit

Luxury

17-inch multi-spoke wheels
Glossy wood interior trim
Remote control alarm
Dashboard at Sensatec
Specific exterior kit

M sport

18-inch wheels
Combination Alcantara and Sensatec Stitched
M interior trim finishers in aluminum
M Sport leather steering wheel
Interior headlining in black
LED fog lights
Gloss black exterior trim
Variable Sport Steering
M Sport suspension
M aerodynamic package

M

18-inch two-tone wheels
M Sport Brakes
Differential M Sport
M Sport suspension
M aerodynamic package

Prices BMW 3 Series Touring

Version	Motor	Change	Traction	Price
Version	Motor	Change	Traction	Price
318d	2.0 diesel 150 hp	Automatic	Rear	47.649 €
320d	2.0 diesel 190 hp	Automatic	Rear	50.450 €
320d	2.0 diesel 190 hp	Automatic	xDrive	52.950 €
330d	3.0 diesel 286 hp	Automatic	Rear	59.950 €
330d	3.0 diesel 286 hp	Automatic	xDrive	62.450 €
M340d	3.0 diesel 340 hp	Automatic	xDrive	75.063 €
320	2.0 petrol 184 hp	Automatic	Rear	48.928 €
330	2.0 petrol 258 hp	Automatic	Rear	53.599 €
330	2.0 petrol 258 hp	Automatic	xDrive	56.100 €
M340i	3.0 petrol 374 hp	Automatic	xDrive	78.047 €
330e	Plug-in hybrid 292 hp	Automatic	xDrive	60.250 €