BMW BMW 3 Series 318d, road test (Part I)

When it comes to an iconic, world-famous model, the BMW 3 Series is one of the most recognised, and in particular the 320d with the 177 CV diesel engine is very popular. But within the diesel range of the 3 Series there are some very interesting models that are more affordable, like the one we bring you here. Thanks to Celtamotor Vigo, we were able to test the BMW 3 Series 318d.

The 318d features a two-litre engine producing 143 CV, which is more than enough to move this executive saloon with ease. As for the exterior design, it was given some updates only a year ago to keep it current and competitive against saloons such as the Audi A4 or the Mercedes C-Class. When we talk about a BMW, the word dynamic is always the first thing that comes to my mind, and without a doubt its responsiveness is one of its greatest assets, so let’s see how it performs and the characteristics of its 143 CV engine.

Engine and performance

As I mentioned, our test unit was fitted with the two-litre, 143 CV engine, a diesel that offers decent performance and quite economical consumption, thanks to the EfficientDynamics technology. In terms of performance, compared with a 177 CV 320d, our engine loses some punch and is a little slower to respond, but when you look at consumption it is worth it, while still maintaining a dynamic driving experience at all times.

The engine has plenty of push and starts responding from 1,500 rpm, delivering its maximum torque of 300 Nm at 1,750 rpm. With these figures it feels very comfortable around 2,000 revs and offers a good response. When recovering speed, the gears are geared quite long (from its six-speed gearbox) to favour fuel economy, so it recovers slowly.

On the other hand, when it comes to handling, as always, it is oriented towards driving enjoyment, with behaviour that is composed at all times and keeps the car under control (aided by precise steering and a small steering wheel). On curvy sections it feels settled, but the suspension that holds the car to the road on properly paved surfaces works against it on potholed roads, reducing interior comfort.

The EfficientDynamics technology includes the well-known Start&Stop system, which helps reduce consumption in the city and is more pleasant to use than in the Mini, where we tested this technology and its operation was somewhat abrupt. Besides the Start&Stop function, there are also other features that recover energy during deceleration and braking phases.

And now we come to the consumption section, which we have been referring to throughout the test. While it is true that its consumption does not approach the official figures, it is quite modest considering its size, power and weight (around 1,500 kg). On the motorway at legal speeds you can achieve consumption of around 5.5 litres per 100 km. In the city, consumption rises to between 8 and 7.5 litres on average (the official figure is 7.1).

It is therefore a saloon that loses performance compared with the 320d but gains in consumption and is always a composed vehicle that you can enjoy driving, keeping it under control at all times. In the next part of the test, we will talk about the exterior design, interior space and practicality.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira
Thanks to the Celtamotor Vigo dealership.