New 2013 BMW 328

BMW sells a lot of 3-Series vehicles and a good many of them have been 328s since the model’s introduction 16 years ago. But the 328, and the 3-Series as a whole, has been constantly evolved. For 2013, BMW introduces a hybrid version and a new 328-based Sport Wagon – arriving Spring 2013 – to a lineup that already features sedan, coupe and retractable hardtop convertible models in rear- or all-wheel drive. Also new is a trim level BMW calls the M Sport Line, which adds 18-inch wheels, sport suspension, sport seats, and an M steering wheel. Active cruise control includes BMW’s Stop & Go technology designed to prevent collisions in heavy traffic.

The entire 3-series was redesigned for 2012, so the outside remains pretty much the same for ’13. Differences between the trim levels relate to grille, mirror, exhaust and tailpipe cosmetics on the sedans. Front and rear fascias differ on coupe and convertible models. Standard exterior features include xenon adaptive headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels, while options include 18- and 19-inch rims, and automatic high beams.

BMW has used various engines in the 328. For 2013, sedan and wagon are powered by a 240-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter, inline-four producing 255 pounds feet of torque and mated to either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available on the sedan. Other 328 body styles use a 230-horsepower, 3.0-liter, inline-six cylinder engine with 200 pounds feet of torque and mated to either the six-speed manual or the six-speed automatic.

Fuel economy with the sedan’s 2.0-liter turbo and eight-speed automatic are significantly improved from the previous generation, with 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with rear-drive. Six-speed manual sedans achieve 22/34 mpg city/highway. The 3.0-liter coupe with six-speed auto gets 18/28 mpg city/highway, while the convertible checks in with 18/27 mpg city/highway. Coupe and convertible mileage with the six speed manual is estimated at 19/28 mpg city/highway and 17/26 mpg city/highway respectively.

By and large, 3-Series interiors are designed around function with luxury features and options tailored to the driver’s needs. The sedan and wagon seat five passengers, while the coupe and convertible seat four. The latest iDrive system is standard on the sedan, but bundled with the optional navigation system on other models. With the longer body from the redesign, there’s more backseat legroom and trunk space. Automatic climate control, HD radio and push button start are standard. Options include front and rear park assist, Dynamic Cruise Control, and satellite radio.

Safety features on the 328 include stability and traction control, antilock brakes with emergency braking assist, and active head restraints. Eight airbags are standard except on the convertible, and include front, front-side impact, driver and passenger knee, and side-curtains. Convertibles have a head extension on the side-impact airbags in place of the side-curtains. The IIHS named the 3-Series sedan a Top Safety Pick.