BMW launches more affordable Sport variant of the 330i

BMW has launched a more affordable variant of the petrol 3 Series -- the 330i Sport, which costs Rs 41.7 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). Previously, the 330i was only available in the more expensive, fully kitted out M Sport trim that costs Rs 6.8 lakh more. Meanwhile, BMW has discontinued the base variant with a diesel engine -- the 320d Sport, and continues only with the 320d Luxury Line. Both the 320d Luxury Line and 330i M Sport get more expensive by approximately Rs 60,000 for 2020.

The big visual difference on the Sport variant compared to the M Sport variant is the lack of the M Sport aerodynamics package. So visually, it lacks some drama and doesn't get the flared intakes, side sills and rear bumpers. It also runs smaller 17-inch wheels compared to the M Sport's 18-inchers. In terms of standard equipment, the 330i Sport gets three zone climate control, electrically adjustable driver's seat, a sunroof, parking camera and the same safety suite as the M Sport variant. However, the lower price does also come at the cost of some equipment. Where the M Sport variant gets a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster, the base Sport variant gets analogue dials with a smaller 5.7-inch digital display between them. It also gets a more smaller infotainment screen (8.8 inches compared to the M Sport's 10.25 inches), misses out on Apple Carplay and the voice command system as well. Additionally, it doesn't get gesture control, ambient lighting or parking assist. In terms of the interiors, it gets seats oriented more towards comfort as opposed to the Sports seats on the M Sport variant, and it also gets a few differences when it comes to the trim in the dash and the seat upholstery.

The 330i is the enthusiast’s choice in the 3 Series range, and the new variant makes it far more accessible. The 3 Series goes up against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar XE and the Audi A4.

The 330i is the enthusiast’s choice in the 3 Series range, and the new variant makes it far more accessible. The 3 Series goes up against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar XE and the Audi A4.