Originally published August 17, 2013
Photo Gallery:
2013 BMW 320i xDrive
Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4
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According to this post on the forums, BMW drivers are the “worst.” So I guess this week I get to cut people off, skip in line at the four-way stops and never stop at a crosswalk. Sounds like a fun week!
This week my driveway is graced with one of the newer BMWs in the lineup and one of the least expensive too: a 320i xDrive, formerly known as a 320xi for those purists. Of course it shares nothing with the older model, not even the engine despite the designation. Gone is the straight-six. The 2013 models are now offered with a 181-horsepower four-cylinder turbo engine.
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My tester is a base 320i with the xDrive option, which converts the standard rear-wheel-drive layout into all-wheel drive, something more and more Canadians are considering as required equipment on their vehicles. The only option on my tester is what BMW calls the “Modern” trim that adds some nice features to the base model. With leather seating, wood trim, 18-inch alloy wheels and sunroof, this package is pretty worthwhile at only $2,500 over the base price.
Of course the new 3 Series has been bashed by purists for many reasons. The engine is no longer a straight-six, the vehicle has become too large and too soft: all in all the ultimate driving machine has been watered down. This may all be true from a enthusiast perspective, but from a consumer perspective each generation of BMW 3 Series I jump into to test seems more refined and improved over the previous – I’m sure this one is no different.
Well equipped at just over $45,000, my tester seems to have everything I would need in a daily driver and so far after a few hours behind the wheel I’m already enjoying this week’s ride – stay tuned to see if my enjoyment continues or if something turns sour.
MSRP as tested (including destination): $47,400
For more information on BMW and the 320i visit BMW Canada
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