Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW 328i

The other day I made a trip to MacArthur Shopping Center, and as I happily headed towards the exit (with shopping bags in tow), I was quickly stopped in my tracks with sight of the BMW 328i that's on display there. What a coincidence?! It just so happens that this BMW was next on my Unsung Hero list. After a few minutes of ogling the 328i, (and snapping a photo to post below) I walked away wanting to find out more.

I headed to Checkered Flag BMW where Dave Lindsey, Jr., a client advisor, gave me a very informative tour of the 328i. This popular 3-Series BMW comes in four body styles: sedan (starting at $32,700), coupe, wagon and convertible. The 328i is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6-cylinder that produces 230 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. Dave says the rear-wheel drive 328i's near perfect 49/51 weight distribution gives it BMW's signature driving feel.

For a vehicle of its class that generates so much power, the 328i has great mpg. Dave says that people find it hard to believe that a 6-cylinder BMW does so well with fuel economy, but it does. Equipped on the 328i is BMW's patented Valvetronic system, which allows for increased power output and efficiency. It gets 28 highway miles and 18 city. Its tank size is 16 gallons and will get around 450 miles.

Outside, the 328i has an appealing classic look. It's what caught my attention in the first place when I encountered it at MacArthur Shopping Center. The classy look continued inside. With its leatherette upholstery and Dark Burl Walnut Wood interior trim, the 328i interior is very warm and inviting. Dave says BMW offers sort of an "a la carte" of interior options where you can pick and choose from several interior fabrics and wood trims. Standout comfort/convenience features include: Comfort Access (keyless access that allows you to unlock the doors just by touching the door handle as long as you're carrying the key); engine start/stop button; active cruise control; and BMW Ambiance interior lighting along doors and rear sides. Also included on the 328i is an  Anti-theft AM/FM stereo CD/MP3 player audio system with 10 speakers and two subwoofers. 

It's hard to not feel safe in the 328i because of all its standard safety features. A full list can be found on the BMW website, but here are a few I wanted to highlight: seat-mounted front side-impact airbags; programmable daytime running lights; anti-lock braking system (ABS); dynamic stability control; and front and rear head protection system (HPS). Dave also told me about the Run-Flat tires that come on the 328i. Getting a flat tire can happen at the worst times, but with these special self-supporting tires you'll be more than prepared. Even with a loss of air pressure, Run-Flat tires will allow you to drive with a flat for up to 150 miles, so you can get yourself to a safe location.

The 328i is a very versatile vehicle that attracts a wide range of drivers. It is a family friendly car, but Dave says it attracts young drivers too. Customers recognize its value based on the performance, luxury, and reliability it offers. Dave and I both suggest seeing the 328i in person at Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.