BMW 3-series – performance and 0-60mph time

The entry-level 320i makes use of the now-ubiquitous 2-litre B48 turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 181bhp for a 7.4sec 0-62mph time and 146mph top speed. It’s only available in rear-drive form, and the same goes for the plug-in hybrid 330e. With the same engine as the 320i assisted by an electric motor, it trims the 0-62mph time down to 5.9sec 0-62mph time. Top speed is pegged back slightly however, to 142mph. 

While you might expect a bit of sparkle from the 2-litre petrol engine it’s not the most characterful four-pot around, sounding plain and not encouraging you to dig into its performance. In the 330e, support from the e-motor does make it feel sprightly and effortless under light loads, but it's still a little flat at higher revs. Perhaps a manual ’box would help, but sadly, the 3-series is no longer offered with a three-pedal option. The standard eight-speed auto is smooth and refined, however, if not that crisp when shifting with the wheel-mounted paddles. 

The most powerful mainstream 3-series, the M340i xDrive, offers the sort of performance figures that used to be reserved for M3s. With 369bhp on tap it reaches a limited 155mph top speed and takes 4.4sec to accelerate from 0-62mph, its off the line traction aided by a standard-fit xDrive all-wheel drive set up. It’s rich in torque and much easier on the ears than the four-pot, too, although some of that noise is piped in artificially through the speakers.

The Touring models use the same range of engines with 0-62mph times a tenth or two slower than the saloons due to their additional weight.