In the world of cars, the BMW 3 Series really needs no introduction. It’s a living legend in its own right, one that’s universally known and desired by many. Now in its seventh generation, the G20 3 Series aims to up the ante, and in just over seven months since its global reveal, the ravishing sedan is finally here in Malaysia in the sole 330i M Sport guise.
Right off the bat, it’s got a love it or hate it appeal. The exterior design will polarise (especially with the ever-growing kidney grille), but things are a tad more palatable in M Sport trim. If you want a more aggressive look, feel free to browse the full M Performance catalogue.
For now, the fully-imported 330i M Sport remains as the only offering for early adopters. The RM328,800 executive sedan is powered by the familiar B48 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, making 258 hp (up 6 hp) and 400 Nm of torque (up 50 Nm) from 1,550 to 4,400 rpm. The ubiquitous ZF eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, enabling a zero to 100 km/h sprint in 5.8 seconds, and a fuel consumption figure of 5.8 to 6.1 litres per 100 km.
Standard kit includes the range-topping BMW Live Cockpit Professional infotainment system, featuring a 10.25-inch centre screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation, the latest BMW Operating System 7.0, as well as a 10-speaker, 205-watt HiFi Loudspeaker sound system. BMW Digital Key is available too, allowing selected Samsung smartphones to be used as a key via Near Field Communication (NFC).
Also on are M Sport suspension with lift-related dampers, as well as a range of active and passive safety systems. Unfortunately, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) is still not offered, and that is a glaring omission, especially considering the price.
If you’re having sleepless nights deciding wether or not to buy, feel free to indulge in our video review to see what our man Jonathan Lee has to say about the 330i M Sport. We also have an in-depth written review for those who want a complete dissection of the car.
GALLERY: G20 BMW 330i M Sport
Looks nice and more sleeker.
Bmw will take over c class and s90 market
Lol, S90 is mid size sedan and compete with 5 series. S60 is compact size to compete with 3 series, C class and A4.
All over the world, this is known as the cheapest BMW or entry level.
Something must be wrong with the ringgit for the entry level BMW to start at RM329k. Mismanagement of tens of years have resulted in our ringgit depreciating so much
The entry level BMW is the 1 Series, which is also around half the price of the 330i. Higher up is the 2 Series, followed by the X1, then X2. After that is the 3 Series.
Foolish to think mere Mismanagement of past tens of years. Its blatant daylight embezzlement and songlap of the Highest order. MaluApabosskuur ..
This or the C300 with adaptive Airmatic suspension, adaptive LED headlights, Burmester sound system, power boot, AEB, Lane Keeping Assist, surround view cameras and a sunroof.
Maybe the CKD 330i will have a better fighting chance if they can match or out-do the spec list of MBM.
BMW 330i is RM329k. BMW 530e is RM329k
But in overseas market, the BMW 530e is about 70% more costly than the BMW 330i
So logic will tell you that the 530e is a better buy
RM328,800 for 3 series sports sedan? Better double check with Mr. Sum Ting Wong.
That interior looks awful. Everythhing is octagon shaped, from instrument panel to the door trims. Urghh.
If the pricing keeps going up, cars will go the way of the properties nowadays… bloated with unsold units.
The transmission tunnel really eats into the drivers legroom space.Looks cramped and pedals are too far to the right.
Is a lack of AEB really that big an issue?? It’s not something I would even consider when looking for a new cart
Yes it definitely is. It’s one of those things you’d think you won’t need, until one day you wish you had.
I’d have to disagree, it wouldn’t sway me one way or another when making a purchase.
Like I said, just means you’ve never been in a position to need AEB. Doesn’t mean you never will.
Anyway, agree to disagree.
Absolutely agree. Never thought I needed it until it saved my arse once. Will never buy a car without AEB in the future! Should become a standard given how cheap electronics are now and how easy it is to accommodate for AEB in this day and age