BMW
2011 BMW 328i Sedan
What it Is: A compact five passenger luxury sedan.
What's Hot: European panache with four-door flexibility.
What's Not: Small size hinders usefulness.
Family Friendly Options: Navigation, premium audio, active cruise control.
How It Got Its Score:The 2011 BMW 328i is a hallmark of European styling and one of the best selling cars in its class. Unfortunately, its small size, cargo space and high price drive down its Family Friendliness score.
The 2011 BMW 328i boasts a few changes over its 2010 counterpart, but unfortunately, none of them make this a more family friendly automobile. There's a lot to like here, of course. The looks are classic, and a minor update last year only made things better. The interior is comfortable as well, and improvements to BMW's iDrive navigation and audio system make it easier to use than ever. However, there are drawbacks. The 2011 BMW 328i is still a small car, and subsequently has a small trunk, which even with a passthrough isn't very helpful for hauling family-sized loads. It scores four out of five stars in the NHTSA's front driver and passenger and rollover tests. Although the base engine offers plenty of power, its combined fuel economy is 22 mpg, not terrible, but not outstanding either. Then there's the price: At more than $36,000 -- before you start adding options -- the 328i simply costs too much. That's especially true especially considering that so much of what you'll want -- such as Bluetooth cell phone integration -- is an option. Note that you can save $1,375 if you prefer to shift your own gears.
Specifications
Price |
|
| MSRP |
$35,400 |
| Destination |
$875 |
| |
| |
| |
Mechanical
Engine Size |
3.0 liters |
|
Engine Type |
Inline-6 |
|
Horsepower |
230 hp |
|
Torque |
200 lb.-ft. |
|
Fuel |
Premium Unleaded |
|
Drivetrain |
Rear Wheel Drive |
|
Transmission |
6-Speed Automatic |
|
Optional Transmission |
6-Speed Manual |
Fuel Economy
EPA City |
18 mpg |
|
EPA Highway |
28 mpg |
|
EPA Combined |
22 mpg |
Utility
Vehicle Type |
Compact |
|
Family Friendliness |
6.7 |
|
Doors |
Four |
|
Seat Rows |
Two |
|
Passengers |
Five |
|
LATCH Positions |
Two |
|
Cargo Space |
12.0 cu. ft. |
Safety
NHTSA Driver Front |
4 Stars |
|
NHTSA Passenger Front |
4 Stars |
|
NHTSA Driver Side |
5 Stars |
|
NHTSA Rear Passenger Side |
5 Stars |
|
NHTSA Rollover |
4 Stars |
|
IIHS Front |
Good |
|
IIHS Side |
Good |
|
IIHS Rear |
Good |
|
Stability Control |
Standard |
|
Traction Control |
Standard |
|
Brake Assist |
Standard |
|
Side Airbags |
Thorax and Curtain |
|
Collision Avoidance |
Not Available |
|
Active Cruise Control |
Optional |
|
Photos
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