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In Brief: G20 BMW 3 Series – For the driving enthusiasts

Eric · Feb 5, 2020 02:29 PM

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Late last year, BMW Malaysia introduced the locally-assembled (CKD) G20 Series in the 330i M Sport form, followed by the more affordable 320i variant in early-2020.

How much is the G20 BMW 3 Series?

Prices start from RM 243,800 for the 320i, climbing up to RM 288,800 for the 330i M Sport.

In Brief: G20 BMW 3 Series – For the driving enthusiasts 01

What’s the pros and cons of the G20 BMW 3 Series?

It doesn’t matter which variant of the G20 3 Series you pick – the 320i or the 330i, driving dynamics is a given.

In Brief: G20 BMW 3 Series – For the driving enthusiasts 02

Unlike a lot of modern cars, the 3 Series’ steering is sharp and precise, making it a breeze to judge where your front wheels are pointing, while the rear end tracks your intended path obediently.

2019 BMW 330i front view

But don’t let that fool you, the 3 Series’ executive suit hides a lively character underneath, as the chassis gives the hint of playfulness, yet keeping things in check.

2020 BMW 330i cockpit

BMW has also given the 3 Series’ interior a massive make-over.

In Brief: G20 BMW 3 Series – For the driving enthusiasts 05

The 330i gains a fully digital Live Cockpit Professional instrument cluster, which looks mighty impressive, but it’s difficult to read while driving due to the massive information overload which clutters the display.

Customization options are also woefully limited, as you can only enable and disable what’s shown on the display.

2020 BMW 320i meter cluster

But this is a non-issue on the cheaper 320i, as it gets easier-to-read analogue dials (yay).

2020 BMW 330i interior

Cabin materials may be a step-up from earlier F30-generation 3 Series, though the Mercedes-Benz C-Class still has a marginally nicer cabin.

That said, if cabin materials matter to you, then the Mazda CX-30 should be your top pick. 

2020 BMW 330i infotainment system

As for its infotainment system, the 320i gets an 8.8-inch touchscreen unit running on BMW Operating 6.0, while the 330i gets a larger 10.25-inch unit which runs on OS 7.0.

The cheaper 320i makes do without the 330’s BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, though both cars get Apple CarPlay support.

2020 BMW 330i front view

However, despite the handsome looks and upmarket interior, both the 320i and 330i lack driving aids such as blind spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, or even forward collision warning.

Update: BMW Malaysia has added Driving Assistant package to the 3 Series for both the 320i and 330i.

What are the alternatives?

In Brief: G20 BMW 3 Series – For the driving enthusiasts 10

Eric

Editor

Started from the IT industry but somehow managed to find his way into the automotive industry. If he’s not gaming, he’s constantly tinkering with his daily/weekend car.

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2023 BMW 3 Series 320i M Sport

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