2023 BMW 3 Series | Last of Traditional BMWs
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 พ.ค. 2024
- We review the 2023 BMW 330i, a rare RWD sedan for those with enjoy traditional styling. This Ultimate Lease Machine appeals to those who want to conduct some business for a few years and then say goodbye. Be warned that this updated car will be replaced by something far more tech-laden. Enjoy it while it lasts. Others to consider are the Acura TLX, Genesis G70, Lexus ES, and Audi A3.
#cars #business #technology
Index:
00:00 Interior and Exterior
1:45 The Mechanical Business End
4:00 Driving Impressions
10:02 Final Thoughts
12:01 A Serious Message from B58 Jack - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
![ตรงที่เดิม - ฝน พรสุดา [ต้นฉบับ : เบส ขวางหวัน]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/c5YnbGEztI8/mqdefault.jpg)
Jack "B58" is a pretty enthusiastic guest, I hope to see more of him.
The man knows his meat. A real connoisseur of engines and beef.
INTENSE BREATHING
See more of him? He's in almost every video
He is also a man of culture, talking about his corvette he owns every minute he doesn’t talk about B58s
What do you mean... he is in nearly every video already.😅
No massive grill 🤓 no Hans Zimmer. Win👍
Hans zimmer is cool man
@@FattyAshyBro He is, but: That Shepard tone is obnoxious. It's a hamster wheel for the ears. There's no correlation between the pitch and speed of the car. Stupid lifestyle fantasy emotion crap.
@@FattyAshyBro He's great doing movies but cars? Not so much
But a stupid mouth.
I prefer the pre-LCI
... or just give me an E36 😂
It still looks bulbous. Zero distinct lines.
Sedans like this wont die out. A sports car with practicality for 4 people is something many people all around the world enjoy. I think with all of the SUVs lately sedans ate becoming more appreciated for their superior handling.
I'd take this over an SUV every time
Me 2-Darn shame the public finds this genre of vehicles appetizing.
Gimme a Audi Allroad then.
Btw I drive a new Miata tho my wife just bought a new Explorer- ugh except it hauls 2 dogs👍
I will NEVER buy an suv
Give us the m3 touring in the states.
@@Jdaminbf4 I'd rather drive that Buick regal station wagon than an SUV by far
I like the feel of an X3, especially the M40i version, but the 3-series obviously drives better overall. It is a little numb and has too much fake engine noise, but I still think I'd take it over an X3. The fuel economy's great, as well.
(Wife and I have owned a 2021 330i for a couple of years now, and I have driven a couple of X3s.)
If traditional BMWs die, so does the spirit of BMW.
The spirit has been gone for several years.
@@markm0000 That's a stretch. I see a clear shift in from sport to gimmick with the transition from the F-series to G-series. F82 CS is true to the former sprit imho.
if this was a lexus or acura you would be praising it but because it’s german you always have something to complain about
@@markm0000 Naaah, the performance and driving is still there, at least in the main models.
the "appliancification" of cars has killed the classic BMW driving experience.
i've had a m340i for over 3 years. this platform is still great and the b series engines are still the best. bmw design in some models is going in a WTF but they haven't screwed it up on the 3 series too much. if you can afford it get the b58. also still getting 23-24mpg.
Nice. I have a 23 340 that is going into assembly this week. Hopefully I'll have it by the end of May. Agree on the WTF design, esp that beaver looking front end. Somebody needs to let them know that's not it Chief.
I have a 2018 440i MPE at 60k miles & not a single powertrain issue to report. Only thing I’ve done besides consumables is thrust arms.
Agreed man.3 series is really good in every way espically in design.
i get 23mpg on the m550i, but if i really step on it i get about 20mpg. not bad!
Agreed. I have an x3 m40i and it got me more than 650km full tank on the highway. Plenty of power yet still 'relatively' comfortable for everyday use. Not keen on the M Sport suspension though, prefer the standard one.
My mom has a new 3 series with the 4 cylinder and XDrive and it's not "fast" but every time I use it I am reminded that not everyone wants or needs an M3. It's plenty of car, smooth, practical and just easy to live with, which is nice.
If it’s the 330i, it’s pretty quick. 0-60 in about 5.5 seconds. And it sounds good too.
Yeah they're pretty nice cars to live with up to 3 years. No long term relationships advised.
Easy to live with? *Laughs in $6,000 of post-warranty repair and suspension bills*
Also, all German brands have crazily gauged the price of their 3-series/C/A4 cars over the last 6-7 years. It feels like a rip off especially when you sit inside and touch their cheap interior plastics. For $47k you can get much more car and reliability, a Lexus IS/ES or a good Acura TLX.
@@andrewgus8763 you say that like it’s a lot. These are luxury cars. Their suspension systems are a lot more sophisticated than for example a Toyota. My mother has a Camry and she’s spent loads more than that. To change the alternator, for example, costs $1,000 because it requires removal of the radiator. All cars need repairs after four or five years.
Man, that's a great color!
I'm not a huge BMW fan, I've had a 1-Series which was brilliant for a hatchback but I will be very sad once these kinds of cars are gone. We are not only losing good drivers car, we are also losing the sumptuous luxury sedan/coupe.
My 123d manual was my first car and its one of the most enjoyable cars i had. Even after owning modern dual clutch sport cars
Post 2011 they are front wheel drive (
@@zukacs 2019*
We're also losing good drivers with the passing of manuals
We're also losing drivers with good driving and respect for other drivers, pedestrians on the streets
B58 Jack is a fine addition to this channel and I look forward to seeing more of him
Jack's B58 message...😂👍
Maybe I'm getting old (at 34) but I feel like the BMW exterior styling has been steadily getting worse over the course of my life.
Go ahead and start every sentence with “back in my day”
I'm 29 and I think the same... E9x was the last one I actually liked the whole car (except convertible)
I'm 22. Don't worry it is getting bad. Genesis stuff looks so much better. At least in looks
I think their sedans and coupes look great, their SUVs look hideous and have been getting worse.
Everyone has different tastes but I like the more aggressive modern styling
I’ve owned a 2023 230i for a few months now and I’ve been thoroughly impressed by my BMW. It was similarly optioned with the same options as this 330i and I have been having a blast with it. The b48 power is more than adequate for public roads, the dynamics are second to none and the only downside is the car does seem to feel numb at times. All in all there is still a lot to love. The car drives absolutely amazing. If you want a comfortable daily with a wild side then BMW is still a solid option. It is not the fastest, it isn’t the fanciest, or the roomiest. The 330i is just a great all around car. It isn’t going to plow and understeer, it will dust most cars at a stop light, and the car is a willing participant when hooning around town. Love my BMW, I think people are just being overly critical nowadays just like how people are upset at the new Integra because they are comparing the new car to a legend in their heads that never existed.
That bit at the end. Priceless!!!
BMW is definitely a lease machine! Excellent point
4 cyl bmws = lease.
Why is it a lease machine? Still don’t understand their take. BMW is ranked first in consumer reports’ reliability rankings this year, and third last year…
@@KittySneeze b48 timing chain setup is worse than the b58's. This is because the b48 also gets turned 90 degrees for front drive applications and those packaging constraints. It also uses a different design for the HPFP, among other small issues... I would lease a b48, buy b58
Because we live in the 21st century and actually owning something makes you an idiot, apparently. It's all about subscriptions, leasing and perpetually paying, so shareholders stay satisfied.
@@leviathan5207 “in the future you will own nothing and be happy “
The transmission is fantastic in these cars. I got 36 mpg on a 400 mile trip and I was not driving easy and had a full car with family and luggage.
It's a 4cyl euro design engine where the governments are killing auto manufacturers with eco laws. What'd you expect...?
I doubt your 36 mpg claim. 28mpg with a full car, possibly
@@Jdaminbf4
Car & Driver recorded a 330i getting 42mpg at 75mph, 36mpg with a loaded car is totally realistic for a highway trip.
@@Jdaminbf4 Naa he’s definitely getting that.
@@ZACH_95_ downhill, sure
I work in a hospital, starting at computer screens for 12 HOURS a day, charting, verifying new orders, etc. The last thing I want to do on my 35 minute commute from work (and to work) is stare at yet another electronic screen. Also, no HVAC physical buttons is a hard pass.
But people will keep buying it, their "Dream Car", just like they keep buying vehicles with 20" (I think those are considered small now, 22" are in now) rims even though a 16" rim with more sidewall is going to give them 100% better ride quality (especially in Michigan where the roads suck). It's funny in the winter time when I drive to work seeing sometimes four cars in row with their blinkers the side of 696 with flat tires.
You should be staring out pass the windshield, not the dash.
Just FYI: areas other than Michigan exist and jobs other than working in a hospital exist.
Most people stare at their phones for hours a day with no complaint so you shouldn't be shocked that they like screens in the car as well.
You must be an inpatient pharmacist
Blue over 'Werther's original' hahahaha! Freakin love this channel - thanks for the quality content!
lol the outro !!! you killed it
i absolutely hate this new long ass tablet instead of having a normal cluster
Theyre soon gonna start putting 60 inch fuckin tvs in there
Ok Boomer
@@paulm6481 whatever zoomer
@@paulm6481 its hard to use a screen compared to buttons when cars moving, whle tryng nto to take focus off the road and driving lol. same garbage as selling leather as a "luxry" item, when in reality leather cracks and requires toxic chemicals to maintain if u want to , gets hot a lot.
@@paulm6481 it's just how its integrated into the car. it was straight up slapped in the middle of the fucking dashboard with no real attempt at making it blend in with the rest of the interior. its like BMW overheard their braindead focus groups drooling about tesla screens and responded with "you want a screen? here's your screen. fuck you, it's cheaper anyway".
That screen just kills it.
The 3 series is the only one of the refreshed models that actually looks good to me honestly. M340i is one of the best looking BMW's made today.
IMO, this BMW refresh is not even close to the Alfa Giulia.
Sorry, can you help me compare the 330i M with the 340i? I don’t know what the significant differences are, and I’m looking at both.
@@ShiaFighter4Life330 has 4 cylinder. 340 has 6 cylinders b58 engine.
Well Done.
Thanks for this.
I had a M340i as a loaner, and it was quick and fun to drive around. I enjoyed the rear wheel tendency to drift with very little effort.
I think the LCI looks like the predecessor of the pre-LCI version. The pre-LCI model has a bit more character in the front and a way more intuitive (hard buttons!) infotainment. The instrument cluster looks more sporty as well.
This
Pre LCI M340i is the way to go! No giant screen slabbed on the dash either
The pre-LCI g20 reminds me of my (2005) LCI e46 330i. The LCI g20 is definitely less interesting style wise, glad I’m not the only one who thinks the pre-LCI looks a bit better than this one
Wife's daily is a G20 330i, 2021 model year, in the same Portimao Blue Metallic paint as this car in the video. Looks-wise, I definitely prefer the pre-LCI.
@@ARentz07 It simply has more character. Not that this one is bad by any means. It's just a tad less emotional.
I’m glad they returned to the classic design language. This looks much better. I’d upgrade to the m340i, personally, but this will appeal to many people.
That has to be the best outro yet!
Everybody rips on Jack but I fully believe that the world would be a better place if every eco box and truck had the option of a b58. #IStandWithJackB58
Here in India, we have a very different perception here. We really don't get any affordable proper hot hatch, performance car, sports coupe, or rear-wheel drive cars(excluding trucks). So a BMW 3 series is kind of a somewhat attainable(even that is a BIIIG stretch) - dream car for enthusiasts because it is one of the more affordable rear-wheel-drive fun cars, especially the M340i as it is made in India so the price isn't insane and when it was launched, it was the fastest car that was made in India. We don't have Acura and Genesis here(Lexus is there but they don't sell IS or any V8 cars). Most cars are much more expensive than in US and India's average income is pretty low compared to the US. So for an enthusiast, M340i is a dream here.
We are an SUV country as well by the way. Can't expect paved roads everywhere and people like the bigger car for the price here.
That’s what I don’t understand when they say a BMW is a lease machine. Is it a car I could own for 15 years? It’s a dream car. Definitely not something disposable, I don’t understand how people could be view something so expensive as disposable.
The M340i touches 80L OTR in India. It’s anything but cheap.
@@nipunsharma5351 Yes that's why I said biiig stretch. What other RWD 6cyl sporty car do we have under 80l?
@@muthukumaranc that’s true. 😢 sad as well
@@avery4528 this sort of luxury car gets really expensive to run out of warranty. Hence why people from more well off countries look at them as disposable. Add to that they have some interesting financial instruments that make it relatively more affordable to get luxury cars from new. Before or as they become problematic they get a new one so they don't have to pay for expensive components out of pocket.
M340i is still best sedan out there in my mind. Wish they didn't have the gigantic screen inside and the exterior styling is a little more subdued, but at least they didn't completely F it up like with other BMWs. Sad how low the bar has fallen
You’re probably like the pre-LCI m340i.
A true car review good work 👍🏾
From an guy that bought a Supra 5 days ago and got COVID 3 days ago watching this and the B58 rant just made my day.
I never understood the BMW love until I bought one. Recently got a 16 F33 and I cannot drive it enough. It keeps my 16 Porsche 958.2 in the driveway more since we got rid of the 15 Ford Mustang GT, which was fun to drive but horrid in the never ending traffic. It would pass everything but a gas station. Solid BMW fan for life here.
I have a 2013 328i series and owning it almost for 10 years. Love it. It's super reliable and I do regular maintenance.
2014 328i GT here Amazing car
I remember years ago (2009) when all the rage was between the BMW 3 series and the Infiniti G35/37 and their performance/ acceleration. Now it is all SUVs/ CUVs and their EV- hybrid counterparts. Times have changed.
Having just rented the latest X3 (base 20i) for a few days, I finally understand how numb things have gotten. Was surprised at the grip and chassis control as the car was actually very capable through the corners but I couldn’t sense this through the steering at all 😂
Where do they sell 20i? In Europe?
My dad owns one, and it's the most boring car I've ever driven.
I drove a rental one too when they were new in 2019 and I was shocked at how good the chassis was for a base car. For daily family car M40i sounds pretty nice.
@@isserdigan2835 Here in UK X3 i20 is the base spec.
BMWs don't have real steering input anymore. Get a Mazda or a Porsche.
remember when "everybody" HAD to get a mini-van and now "everybody" HAS to get an SUV ... be Independent , free-thinking and getcha a decent CAR !!!
I have a B9 S4 and i am going to upgrade to the M340i this year. Probably pre-certified. The B58 engine is a marvel of engineering and I plan to keep it as my only car
I purchased the B9 s4 after not being able to find an x3m40i/m340i with the B58 in good condition/low miles in my price range. I still love the Audi S4, but I can't act like the B58 in the m340i and x3 m40i isn't the better engine. More horsepower, better mpg, and I believe the maintenance will be cheaper on the BMW motor. I do like the exterior and interior of the Audi B9/B9.5 more though.
@@morganlingsweiler9813 That rocker arm issue on the early B9 S4 really gives me pause.that's probably the only reason why i want to get out of the S4. Mine's a 2018. the M340i are coming down in price slightly now. If i can get a pre-certified one for 45k, less than 30k miles. I am pulling the trigger
Replicant Jack scares the crap out of me! Job well done fellas!!!
I like how much you feature Cake in your videos. Well deserved.
We almost got one of these but went with a Giulia Veloce instead and so far have been super happy. The Giulia is basically a 4 dr that drives like a 2 dr and is so fun to drive. I would still love to get a M240 or even a M340 thought because I believe for the money they are the best there is for performance/price combo.
Fantastic review. But these new outros are completely mad, I love them!
Love the Julian Pie Company merch from my hometown. Always surprises me seeing you guys wear it.
I'm glad the 3 series is still a BMW you can love both the look and driving experience of... But I'm not in any rush to upgrade from my E90! The NA I6, excellent balance and steering feel, comfort and outstanding sound system combined with the modern features like Bluetooth audio and keyless entry are more than enough for me to be happy
That outro! I think us long-term enthusiasts are a bit jaded and a bit snobby about cars like this. It’s a great car, but I’d never get one because I feel I want something faster and slightly special. I already feel like a sell-out with my F80 M3, because it doesn’t have more steering feel or a screaming V8 from the E90 I had. But it’s kind of ridiculous as 95% of the time the new 340i would be the far better car to have. Shoot even this 330i. All this said, I guess I cannot see a time when I would be ok with these big long screens. So if I ever do give up my F80, I’ll be getting the last year 340i with the tradition gauge pod or maybe even an early 330i where you could get the old-school analog gauges.
Would totally agree with Mark that the road presence of the refreshed IS and the TLX are just quite a bit ahead of the 3 series. Me personally, I would probably take the TLX.
Great review!
Love that you are listening to Cake!
As an owner of two G01 X3's (30i and M40i) including now a G80 (M3 competition), I've had plenty of time behind the wheel of a base 3 series and M340i (Loaners). There is a difference as you move up the trim levels. The B58 versions, are really the perfect balance of the trim levels. BMW really makes incredible vehicles that not only perform well, but get respectable fuel economy. With the B48 and B58 paired with the ZF8, it's been a home run. The B58 is still one of the best engines produced and it sounds incredible, dare I say even better than the S58 in my M3. My biggest dislike was the tacky I-drive 8 setup..
I actually went from a 330i to a 2023 230i. I feel IDrive8 is way better than 7. I can see why car reviewers don’t like it because there is a learning curb to using the new system. It took me a few months to get used to everything but now that I’m settled in I would hate to go back to ID7. People online are completely over reacting to the new infotainment. Congrats on the M3
Looks real good. Judging by the rest of their line up, you know that's not going to last.
Yeah they need to fire all their designers asap
The next gen 3 series will probably look similar to the new 5 🤮
I had 330e & 530i..to me driving the 330e is like “riding my previous italian superbike” with 4 wheels and a roof top..The car provide lots of feedback to the driver..
The 3 series driving dynamic is enjoyable…i can feel the road surface thru the stearing wheel, the suspension supporting the chassis..the engine n gearbox in unison..Yes its fuel efficient..
Just happy this car still exists
that car actually looks nice on the outside, unlike many of the newer BMWs
The last traditional 3 Series was the E90 range. Great mixture of naturally aspirated engines including a V8, manuals available across the board, no 4 wheel drive and good looks - especially in coupe form.
Absolutely ❤
I'm going to buy one of these in the Touring estate form in Europe very soon, not to lease but long term.
Alot of value for the money.
They once had a tan interior which was a few shades darker (think oiled baseball glove) which was lovely. Mark was right on with the C&D comment. The debut of a new 3 Series was a premier issue back in the day. I aspired to drive one and only could afford at the time the 320i which had a sorry 4 cylinder. Solid car but dulled my enthusiasm for the brand. Never bought another. Saved my money by driving used Accords and moved on to a 911 eventually.
That ending is hilarious.
As a pre-LCI owner, I believe the front and rear of the car fit better with the lines and curves on the side of the car.
LCI bumpers have too many sharp lines and angles that kinda stand out from the rest of the car.
Hard agree. Pre-LCI 330i owner here as well. We've had ours for two years and are not really interested in the LCI - doesn't seem like an improvement, honestly.
Love my 2022 330e ... it's got a lot less character than my manual 2003 325i had, but it's light years ahead in terms of an overall package.
I do enjoy a good ol Monday morning quickie with the geese
I watch lots of them, but this is my favourite car site.
Best ending ever 😂"B58"
320d version is still volume seller in 3-series lineup across EU market.
It has best resale value, reliable engine with great fuel economy.
Too slow for the us market. Any old camry and accord is faster than a 320d, even pickup trucks are faster lol
@@watuwantt Corolla is faster than 320d
I just got a 2024 330i xdrive M-package and I'm loving it
I agree, having owned a 2014 & 2019 Lexus IS, I had a new 3 series 320d as a courtesy car over Christmas there and it is smooth, refined and drives well. The new UI is a learning curve, in saying that Lexus isnt easy with that mouse!!
I'm somewhat surprised about the lack of mention for the Alfa Romeo Giulia. It's seen as another class competitor, and well regarded for what driving enthusiasts enjoy. It also having a ZF8 Speed, higher priority on handling/driving dynamics, and character...unless Stellantis did something to y'all.
Plus, it's been a few years since the previous review of the QV, it would be interesting to see a Goose review on Alfa's current offerings with the Tonale and Stelvio too!
It probably has to do with how much smaller it is inside. Same goes for the ct4. That said they are not reading from a script when discussing stuff like that. It doesn't mean they don't think it competes they are just mortal.
I used to work at an Alfa Romeo/Maserati dealership. The Giulia is a great car to drive but it greatly lacks in technology and reliability. It’s a competitor to the 3 series on paper only pretty much, unless you value driving dynamic above all else. Even then, it’s not than much better
I passed on the Alfa due to the small back seat. I also called my local dealer to get a feel for problem areas and I could not even get through to them. I tried multiple times. I don’t have time for that in my life.
@@clubracer6 yea if they can’t be bothered to talk in the phone to sell you a car their never gonna pickup the phone to get you parts and service.
I had a Giulia for 3 years before I got my M340i and honestly the service department made me wish I bought a 330i only a year into owning the Giulia.
Love my 23' 340i. I did buy mine. Reminds me of the 91' XJ6 my dad taught me to drive in. It does have a few issues. Weight and lack of fed back but kind of what you expect from cars these days. Definitely sized like the older E39.
I considered the Giulia, the IS, and TLX. But I didn't really want another turbo 4, finding an IS with the dynamic package for the LSD and suspension is impossible, and the Acura dealer wanted 5k over MSRP plus 1.3k for dealer fees for the TLX Type S. I will say the Alfa probably drives better than the BMW.
I do like the i Drive 8. Yes, you have to use the touch screen for the climate controls but the inside the cockpit looks super clean and it works really well when you have gotten used to it. Go sit inside of a Mercedes and its like a cluster bomb of buttons and knobs. Its absolutely overwhelming.
Turning off the fake engine noise and the engine auto start/stop is a must. Turning those two things off completely changes the driving experience.
Ugh, I wish the pre-LCI would let me turn off the fake sound. We have a pre-LCI 330i (wife's daily). It is fantastic overall, but that fake sound bugs me! Small complaint, I know.
The IS is an interesting one. I owned a 2021 IS 350 F Sport for about two years before trading it for an IS 500. I think the IS 500 is more of a competitor to the M340i than the 350 is. The 350 is just too slow to compete with it - even if the handling is really nice. The IS 500, on the other hand, is pretty darn close to an M340i - maybe not quite as fast 0-60, but certainly has the top end to keep up on the highway. Did you consider it as an option over the M340i? If not, I get it - the MPG is pretty poor - I've averaged just 18.9 MPG over my first two months with it - and it doesn't have quite as modern of tech as the BMW.
@@ARentz07 Looked for an IS500. Personally think the new IS line is the best looking in its class. But in the six months of looking at cars I never saw one come up for sale(new) and the used ones were selling for 10k+ over MSRP.
Was actually wanting to order a custom Lexus because its one of the few manufactures that the sunroof is an option by itself not bundled (I hate sunroofs) but was told by every dealer in my area they couldn't do that. Sigh, I just can't get away from sunroofs.
I used BimmerCode to turn off the fake engine noise. Also used it for the engine auto/start stop. Though I had to do a round about method with the auto start/stop by setting the Individual Sport mode as default. It seems BMW locked it on the LCI so you can't just default the auto start/stop off.
Everyone that I know that owns ID8 loves the system. I can understand why internet reviewers don’t like ID8 because there is a learning curb but after a month of owning an LCI BME you really begin to appreciate how the system works. ID8 is highly intuitive but it isn’t very difficult either. Wish these reviewers would stop putting it down. Anyways, it doesn’t matter in the end because buying a BMW is about the driving experience, not the infotainment.
@@ARentz07 i'm 11 months late but you should be able to code out the fake sound with bimmercode
I have a fairly mint low mileage E46 that I love and I'm glad to hear that things are still all good in the Driving Dynamics area of the 3 series ... that's all that matters. I know for a much lesser people than before, but I am glad it's still a priority for BMW on this car.
Dude that ending was so good. Keep it up!
My daily is a 2020 M340i and it is very good. It's a little stiff on bad roads but is extremely rewarding when pushed hard on a back road. It is also very quiet and quite efficient when I'm not hooning it. BTW B58 Jack is cursed, lol.
I guess I'm not the norm, but drivetrain and handling dynamics is literally ALL I care about! Compared to any other modern sedan, these things are amazing.
I have a 2018 430i GC Xdrive (F36?) and it’s really everything I need. It’s not particularly sporty, but I’m not a track driver, and there’s nowhere within 50 miles I could really do any remotely adventurous driving anyway. It’s comfortable, handles very well up to that 7/10 level, and the hatch space rivals most CUVs. And I think it looks great.
I'm feeling the love for the b58 but in all honesty it's one of the best engines out there
I've driven a recent 330i and the current TLX, but not the Lexus. They're all great cars, but I think they each appeal to a different buyer/driver. Personally, I'd go with the BMW. Rear wheel drive (or RWD biased AWD), but with great fuel economy. But I don't keep cars forever, just an average of 3-4 years. If I were buying a car to drive for the next 10 years I'd get the Acura or Lexus.
What's the difference between this bmw and the TLX? Who would that one be for
A lot of people still buy BMW sedans in the US, just recently for Q1 2023, BMW sold ~36,000 sedans versus ~46,000 SUVs… so they are selling more SUVs, but sedans are not irrelevant by any means. Still a substantial part of the business
But sales have fallen drastically. The 3 series used to be the best selling model. 10 yrs ago, my commuter parking lot was full of 3 series and some c class and A4s. Now I rarely every see them and the lot is full of teslas. Which makes sense since you’re getting a lot more car for less money. And I guess this is reflected in sales numbers as the 3 series sales have dropped drastically.
lease machine ™ spot on 👏
This is the prettiest bmw in my opinion. I think it will stay timeless. I think I’m going to get this and keep it for 20 years.
Same
Please remember the Alfa Romeo Giulia as "others to consider". Awesome reviews, but you always leave out the Alfa. A comparably equipped enthusiast spec Giulia with ZF-8 speed, LSD, paddle shifters, sport seats, etc. is a bit pricier but competitive IMHO and certainly isn't numb. Plus, double wishbone front suspension and aluminum control arms in the back. I'm biased, but c'mon they deserve some love (and sales)!
Exactly right!
@@NealsBrush The design and engineering effort put into the Giulia/Stelvio cars was pretty incredible, per Marchione's expansion plans for Alfa Romeo. Unfortunately he didn't live long enough to complete the vision beyond the two models, but they demonstrate the talent lent to this project.
@@NealsBrush glad to hear that! I came from a WRX and it’s night and day.
As the owner of a 2022 330i almost identical to the one you reviewed, I cannot see myself going back to the 3 next time around. I got to check out an LCI 330i this past week and it took away everything I liked about mine, namely the HVAC buttons, dual screen setup, and the physical Steptronic shifter. Even with its age, I still hope you get a chance to review the B9.5 A4 before it’s replaced.
ID8 is much better once you get passed the learning curb, the dual screen is bigger, more clear to read and can be customized. As for the steptronic shifter, why are you upset that you can’t impersonate a manual car anymore? The paddles work better anyways.
@@postalpancho Curb? You mean curve, I presume? Though "the learning curb" might explain why people still sometimes spend their own money on BMW's "5 years and it's trash" products.
@@postalpancho I don't understand how you can defend the objectively worse experience on the ID8? How many screen smudges do you need to go from CarPlay navigation to Connected Drive Spotify and then finally on to the Sport Metrics Screen? For me it is just 3,2,1 on the ID7 quick access buttons 🤷♂
Love the fact that you’re listening to Comfort Eagle
I have a 2020 340i xDrive. B58, no mild hybrid system sounds great and not stifled. That drivetrain is silk with the ZF. As far as subjective styling goes for modern BMWs I turn around for another look when I get out and lock the car. I have no qualms. (Insert beaver grille and further questionable current BMW design directions here).
Adaptive suspension is a must. In comfort it goes about it’s business no issue. It’s a stiff car, but the comfort setting mellows road imperfections out appropriately. Not land yachty like the air suspension in my last E450, but it’s noticeably more comfortable and compliant than when in sport or sport+, which by the way are great on my track days. The larger diameter brake and pad compound with the track package give me all the confidence I need. The additional cooling doesn’t hurt either.
Infotainmentwise, I think iDrive 7 is peak BMW. Simple, clean, and enough screen for the intended purpose. (I couldn’t care less about the right-to-left rpm counter, and quite frankly I got used to it; and in sport or sport plus there’s a linear left to right rpm gauge in the HUD with shift points.)
Overall packaging is great, space is perfect for my needs, trunk is very useable, and I can have all the fun I could want in the snow and in the dry.
Cold start with the exhaust valves open makes me smile, a progressive traction control and great chassis dynamics make me smile, and driving home in absolute comfort from a track day and with good driver aids on the highway help me relax. Steering could have more feedback, but it’s not bad and BMW made a few changes I was told with this gen of 340i to make it better than the previous one. I haven’t driven the previous gen so take that for what it is. But, as an enthusiast community, that horse is not coming back to life, no matter how much we beat it.
I had a C43 as well, and the driving dynamics are quite different. The 340i feels more alive being rear biased; C43 feels heavy…but still enjoyable on the track though.
Maybe the G20 series is the last of a dying breed from Bavaria. But maybe not..One can hope. If you want a M3, buy one, but do it justice. I unfortunately don’t have a German autobahn or a track within an hour’s drive.
Mazda cx-90 review coming?
5:14
Still trying to keep my 21 yo e46 going.
Manual
NA inline 6
Steering FEEL
Balance
Handling
Nimbleness
Now a 3 series is ordinary and plain. 4 cylinder turbo, numb steering, automatic like every other manufacturer.
Same. E46 is such an honest, linear, balanced, engaging car.
But at 20 yrs old just one accident and it's over. 😂
The last few lines are straight outta RCR. Love the reviews.
one of the last few current BMW’s that still look good
love the video. this segment is difficult because no one car does it all. I have yet to test drive the TLX Type S, but the A-Spec was underwhelming. I think you hit the nail on the head, the 10 speed auto is really not it. It wasn't as slow as the transmission in the IS-350 F-Sport, but its slow. In the end the G70 has given me the closest thing to what I want, and still has PHYSICAL HVAC controls! Audi, BMW, and Volvo need to stop with all the touchscreen nonsense. Will be interesting to see where things go from here, transition to EVs could mean a huge shakeup in the Midsize Performance Sedan category.
Type S is a whole other animal, even the 10a is strengthened and shifts differently
Would’ve been nice to hear about the Alfa Romeo for a comparison.
Totally love my 330i. Fuel economy is outstanding. I can get up to 50 miles per gallon on a Highway if I am trying hard. That’s incredible! Owner for three years. Not a single problem yet! 🤞🏻
Can you help me compare the 330i M with the 340i?
This camera changes the actual shade of this blue. It seems it makes it brighter. 🔵
While I prefer the "F" series styling of my 340 M Sport over the "G", I've driven G loaner cars. Even in stripped down "loaner" form, this is a really nice car to drive. The last TLX I drove was a 2019, It felt so so heavy, downright ponderous.
The Type S is a completely different car and generation.
2021+ TLX's are a far improvement from the outdated prior generation TLX. They are heavier, but honestly feel 300-400 pounds less than they are. They are very nimble and ride is great. The 10-speed isn't perfect by any means, but definitely better than the prior 9-speed. But not nearly as good as the ZF 8-speed BMW uses. I think styling wise the TLX looks better, but drive wise BMW has a slight edge. Also a huge advantage is in MPG's for BMW. It's crazy how efficient the B48 and B58 are compared to other rivals for the amount of power they both produce
@@supercyan4869 Thanks, I have not driven the new Type S, I loved my 2003 CL Type S. Great 6 spd manual. I am happy to hear that Type S is more than just badging. The 340 M Sport is no lightweight either (3,800 lbs I think), it just doesn't feel heavy.
One second into the video and I already got a funny feeling in my lower abdomen.
I totally agree with the way you guys put it in regard to the 330i. It does things impressively well, but it is a little cold and generic at times. However, it is undeniably a fantastic option. It is hard to argue with. My wife has had her 2021 330i for about two years, and it has been great to live with. The fuel economy is great, and the ZF 8-speed and B48 are a match made in heaven - so smooth and intuitive to drive. I see no reason to upgrade to the LCI 3-series, but the base of the G20 upon which it is built is impressive.
If you're wondering, I also owned a 2021 IS 350 for almost two years before trading it in on an IS 500. I am somewhat of a Lexus fan boy. But, I can admit the 330i made my IS 350 feel pretty dated at times. Though the NA V-6 had some sound and character that the 330i's I-4 lacked, it also got far worse fuel economy and wasn't as quick. The transmission was also easily better in the BMW. But, the IS did have that personality that Mark alluded to. Obviously the IS 500 is a whole other animal, and I wonder how Mark and Jack would feel comparing it to an M340i.
is500 f sport has an NA V8 sure, but it sounds like high pitch vacuum that screams, BMW on the other hand while sound bassy rather than loud, it has aggressive acceleration which could give the is a run for its money
@@baoquoc3710 it's funny, I think the BMW is louder. The IS, in any form, is a quiet car. Even the IS 500 barely has any exhaust noise - what I hear is all intake. The M340i has a nice sound to the exhaust, on the other hand.
@@baoquoc3710 though, I disagree on the whole vacuum thing. While it's not loud, it sounds great!
Good God the quality of this video is amazing. Not sure if something changed but it looks TOO REAL
You hit the nail on the head. As good as the 3-series is, it has become generic. I also remember the days when a new 3 was so highly anticipated. Nowadays it’s just another car. I agree that something like the TLX and G70 have way more character, and I think the TLX looks fantastic. But there are those factors that still make the bimmer a good buy, especially used/CPO.
Many car enthusiats care more about the driving dynamic than the "look at me" presence. To each their own I guess!
@@jee-emdoubleyou513 Huh? Where do you get the impression that I’m concerned with the “look at me” factor? BMWs are still considered some of the best driving cars. My point is that I just don’t get excited about a new BMW like I used to 20+ years ago. I wouldn’t want a brand new “look at me” BMW.
@@icculus simple, split to two eras when BMW is "just a completely new player In the car market that can only made limited runs" and "now that the capital is plentiful, they have more legs to stretch out for different segments"
10 yrs ago, my commuter parking lot was full of 3 series and some c class and A4s. Now I rarely every see them and the lot is full of teslas. Which makes sense since you’re getting a lot more car for less money. And I guess this is reflected in sales numbers as the 3 series sales have dropped drastically.
"if you're going to cycling in our cars every three to five years like most people, I don't really care that the car is going to be around for 15 years" 8:42
I think it's important to challenge the status quo and strive for change, even if it means going against the norm. What do you think?
Love that outro 😂
I have modded bmw f30, it’s by far my favorite sedan. It’s great daily, 500hp rocket for weekends.
I really like the 3-Series LCI however I’m not too sure about the new iDrive8 layout
The screen is nice and is very responsive however there’s no analogue buttons especially for the HVAC controls so it’s all touch screen it just seems so counterintuitive
iDrive7 is probably the best BMW interior design because it blended analogue and tech so well and it had a cockpit feel that made it like a drivers car and it was unique to their own not trying to copy Mercedes or Audi now iDrive8 is just a big tablet tacked on the dash on top of that there’s no buttons
I really do hope that they go back to an iDrive7 layout with buttons but it seems highly unlikely with BMW’s current leadership
Idrive 8 is awful and starts to lag, I had a pre LCI 330e, put a deposit down on a LCI 330i and the idrive lost it for me.
Ended up getting a M340i pre LCI over the newer car.
iDrive 8 sucks. I WILL NOT buy another BMW until they sort this out. The 8 shortcuts are gone. Climate control buttons are gone. Heated seats and ventilated seats are now have to be turned on / off in software. No one can dispute that having to navigate a software menu to do simple tasks is safer than a switch you can locate and turn on, without looking, by memory. The fact the common sense has been lost around this is totally mind boggling. Kool Aid drinkers will say use voice commands. But the voice commands are slow and half baked, at best. You can easily press a button and have your attention back on the road before the voice command system is even ready to take your command.
The info screen also looks like an afterthought - tacked on, not integrated.
I live in Southern California and when people drive these and discover the turn signal by happenstance, they react with confusion and believe it to be some strange gimmick feature.
That Jack "B58" segment at the end....
We're clearly now in the Max Hedroom world.
I love my g21 330i touring :) - Thankfully we still get them in Australia