BMW Introduce BMW 323i Sedan
Mar 7, 2006, 09:59 |
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| BMW 323i |
- 323i powered by new version of acclaimed 2.5-litre straight-six engine
- Delivers creamy smooth 130 kW of power and 230 Nm of torque
- Priced from $64,800
- On sale from June
BMW will welcome even more buyers to the new 3 Series range with the arrival of an additional six-cylinder powered model, the 323i Sedan.
Set to join the 323i Touring which also arrives in June, the 323i Sedan will be priced from an enticing $64,800 for the six-speed manual and $67,400, for the six-speed Steptronic automatic.
Offering more power than its key rivals from its free-revving 2.5-litre six-cylinder, the engine sets a new benchmark among European luxury sedans.
The 323i Sedan slots into the E90 generation Sedan range between the popular $55,400 320i Executive, powered by the efficient and spirited 2.0-litre four-cylinder 110 kW VALVETRONIC engine, and the $73,000 2.5-litre 160 kW powered six-cylinder magnesium alloy engined 325i Sedan.
The 323i Sedan will prove to be an extremely alluring proposition for this segment of the luxury car market.
Like all BMW six-cylinder power plants, the innovation-rich 323i Sedan engine makes extensive use of weight saving materials such as aluminium and magnesium-alloy for the block, while its smooth, responsive character has already been lauded internationally.
The 323i Sedan shares its 2.5-litre displacement with the 325i Sedan, albeit it tuned to a new level.
Like the 325i, the 323i engine is one of a new generation of six-cylinders that also includes the VALVETRONIC valve control system with double-VANOS variable valve timing.
The high-performance characteristics of the 323i are impressive. The engine produces 130 kW of power at 5,800 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm.
Given its precision state of tune, the 323i is no slouch when it comes to performance. The automatic transmission version sprints from zero to 100 km/h in just 8.8 seconds and delivers impressively frugal fuel consumption figures of just 8.4 litres per 100 km on the combined fuel test cycle.
Like all BMW vehicles sold in Australia, the 323i is fitted with a comprehensive range of advanced active and passive security systems as standard.
All Australian market BMW vehicle feature Dynamic Stability control.
The new 323i Sedan features that latest generation Dynamic Stability Control Plus (DSC+), as well as six airbags, Anti-Lock Brakes, Dynamic Brake Control, Cornering Brake Control, Automatic Stability Control + Traction, and Cruise Control with Brake Function.
DSC+ constantly compares vehicle speed, wheel speed, steering angle, and yaw rate with a benchmark of optimum driving condition data so its takes barely a fraction of a second to recognise for instance, the danger of a skid or understeer or oversteer.
This almost sixth sense can apply the brakes at individual wheels and cut engine power to assist the driver to retain control under difficult conditions.
Among its many attributes, DSC+ primes the brakes for emergency stops, clears the discs of surface water and reduces the effects of brake fade.
From the outside the 323i is identified by twin-exhaust pipes, chrome kidney grille bars and window recess finishers in chrome, rear Park Distance Control, front foglights, and a set of 16-inch Star-Spoke Alloys.
Equipment levels are also comprehensive and feature a leather steering wheel, Dakota leather upholstery, multi-function steering wheel, retractable front and rear centre armrests, front seat back storage nets, anti-dazzle interior rear view mirror, fine-wood trim in Burled Walnut, rain sensor and automatic headlights, automatic air conditioning, cruise control with brake function, Bluetooth mobile phone interface preparation and AM/FM radio with in-dash CD player.
The interior can be further personalised with fine-wood trim Poplar grain or highlights in finely brushed Aluminium or a Titanium Matt interior trim package, all of which are no-cost options.
Customers will also be able to specify an M Sport Package, featuring all the M features – body kit, sports seats upgrade and 17-inch double-spoke alloys. It is available at a premium of $5,200.
The BMW 3 Series is always at the forefront of technology, especially in terms of chassis dynamics, and the 323i Sedan is no exception.
The entire front suspension is constructed from aluminium, along with the tie bars, track control arms and pivot bearings. Aluminium reduces unsprung masses and helps the 323i achieve a near perfect 50:50 weight distribution, which in turn deliver precise steering and cornering prowess.
Light-weight materials ensure the 323i Sedan maintains the inherent balance and driving dynamics expected of every BMW.
Combined with rear-drive, a long wheelbase with short overhangs and 50:50 weight distribution, all BMW 3 Series Sedans provide keen drivers with unmatched handling characteristics.
By adding the 323i, BMW now has a winning team with which to tempt six-cylinder compact sports sedan buyers.
The BMW 3 Series range now comprises the 320i, 320i Executive, 320d, 320d Executive, 323i, 325i and 330i Sedans and the 323i Touring.
© Copyright 2006 Driveguide.com.au
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