The 3 Series has always been seen as the model which the Bavarian brand builds itself around. The 7th Generation car is nothing short of impressive! Loaded with heaps of driver-aiding tech, user experience enhancements, and last but not least, confidence-inspiring razor-sharp handling!

But why is BMW’s Compact Exec transport such an appealing car? And more so, what makes this seventh-generation sedan this good a vehicle?

The 330i utilises BMW’s B48 series four-cylinder engine, in a higher state of tune, compared to the one found in the 320i model; delivering 258bhp and 400Nm, the latter available between an elastic 1,550 to 4,400rpm. This translates to an experience, where you can easily drive it in Eco mode, with gears switching up earlier, taking advantage of its full wack of torque even when the engine is in a low-state of spin, delivering a leisurely-yet-effortless driving experience. Or on the flip, simply enjoy how punchy this same 2.0 is in Sport mode, with the equally-effortless ability to clock 100km/h in only 5.8 seconds.

Beyond the engine’s ability to perform, with this much flexibility, the 330i is well-balanced, and unfathomably nimble; the new 3 Series is built upon the brand’s widely utilised Cluster Architecture (CLAR), which first saw light in the current 7 Series, and even underpins the sublime droptop-only Z4. Thanks to its new architecture, the new 3 Series is also up to 55 kg lighter than the car it replaces.

The combined elements of stiffer underpinnings, reduction of weight, coupled with BMW’s obsession with delivering that ideal 50:50 weight distribution, plays a major role in how poised the 3 Series is around bends. The increase in the four-cylinder’s delivery of power and torque, in-part, thanks to new fuel pumps capable of delivering fuel at a higher pressure, ensures that the 330i delivers nothing short of an entertaining drive.

Taking the car into the next decade, BMW’s all-new Operating System 7.0, and Intelligent Personal Assistant, delivers an improved user experience, bolstered by its ability to understand voice commands, in a more natural conversational fashion. Beyond being able to park itself, its new Reversing Assistant, is a game changer. The system makes backing out of tight spaces a breeze, by reversing the car autonomously, based on the path previously taken, and up to a distance of up to 50 meters.

Extending the driving experience to more within your circle, BMW has also included their Digital Key, which relies on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, granting you access to the car through your mobile phone or key card, allowing you to share your vehicle with up to five people.

Quality materials, and in signature BMW style, a driver-oriented dashboard, is further complemented by a selection of six available interior colour themes for added personalisation. Passenger accommodation, especially for rear passengers is generous, offering quality head and legroom, while a 480 litre boot, leans on the larger side within its class.

The combination of its innovation, practicality, performance and driving satisfaction wins the BMW 330i Luxury the Oneshfit Car of the Year 2019 award.

Dear friends, the sedan is definitely not dead! On the contrary, the 3 Series sedan is an object of desire.

Read more about the BMW 330i Luxury here!

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