New 318i to be the base variant in the BMW 3 Series lineup

MANILA: Back in 2019, BMW launched the all-new 3 Series, and the 320i was assigned to play the role of the entry-level trim. However, the new year has seen the German automaker make some amends to the brochure as we see the G20 318i making a comeback to the range. Following its return, the 318i will sit below the 320i and be the entry-level option in the new BMW 3 Series lineup.

The 318i is not too different than the 320i and the 330i, as customers can prop their 318i just like the other two models. While the 318i badge gives it out, customers can even have that removed from the factory itself and flaunt their 318i as the 320i or 330i.

The story under the hood of the new BMW G20 318i, however, is completely different than that of the 320i, 330i, and the previous-generation 318i itself. The new G20 318i comes housing a 2.0-litre four-pot turbocharged motor, the same motor that propels the 320i as well. On the 318i, the unit is a de-tuned version making 156 PS of maximum power and a peak torque of 250 Nm. The power is then sent to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. There is also an option for the customers to add paddle shifters.

Unlike the new GMW G20 318i, the previous-generation model was powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine that used to produce 136 PS of maximum power and a peak torque of 220 Nm. The new 318i is capable of going from 0 to 100 kmph in 8.4 seconds before topping out at 223 kmph. BMW did offer the 318i in the Philippines in the past. And, the return of the entry-level 3 Series might just make BMW Philippines start offering the sedan in the country again after a gap of seven years.

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