Best Car Reviews - 2014 BMW 328i

Introduction

The 2014 BMW 328i is an epitome of German engineering that continues to captivate car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Released as part of the renowned 3 Series, this model was designed to appeal to those valuing sophistication combined with performance. Targeted at professionals and driving aficionados, the 328i stands out with its seamless blend of luxury, agility, and technology. What makes this model truly remarkable is its rear-wheel-drive layout coupled with a responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offering both comfort and a thrilling driving experience.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2014 BMW 328i is a masterclass in design, showcasing the brand's signature aesthetic flair with a modern twist:

Sleek, aerodynamic design that maintains the classic 3 Series profile.
Sporty kidney grille and adaptive xenon headlights give it a commanding presence.
17-inch alloy wheels come standard, enhancing its aggressive stance.
Dynamic contours along the sides, adding to its visual appeal.
LED taillights integrate seamlessly into the rear design.

Interior and Comfort

BMW has always excelled in creating luxurious cabin environments, and the 328i is no exception:

High-quality materials like soft-touch plastics and premium leather adorn the cabin.
Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures optimal comfort for all passengers.
Ergonomically designed seats provide excellent support for long drives.
Ample headroom and legroom in both front and back seats.
Large cargo space in the trunk, ideal for weekend getaways.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 328i boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 240 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque:

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, providing a thrilling ride.
The 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts with an adaptive driving experience.
Remarkably agile in urban settings; takes corners with precision and stability.
On highways, the vehicle exhibits superior road manners with minimal road noise.
Fuel efficiency is impressive at 11.0 l/100 km, considering its performance capabilities.

Technology and Connectivity

The BMW 328i integrates cutting-edge technology designed to enhance every journey:

BMW iDrive system comes with a 6.5-inch display interface.
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
High-quality Harman Kardon sound system available as an option.
Navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
Driver assistance features like parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

Safety Features

BMW’s commitment to safety is evident with a range of features in the 328i:

Standard anti-lock brakes and traction control.
Airbags: front, side, and curtain for comprehensive coverage.
Achieved a 5-star rating in European NCAP crash tests.
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) for enhanced handling and safety.
Optional lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2014 BMW 328i starts at around $37,300 USD, offering excellent value for its blend of performance and luxury:

Available trims include the standard 328i and the more upscale 328i xDrive.
Competitive pricing compared to rivals such as the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Excellent handling and agility.
Luxurious, feature-rich interior.
Strong performance with efficient fuel consumption.
Comprehensive safety features.
Renowned brand reliability.

Cons

Premium gasoline requirement adds to running costs.
Limited rear-seat space for taller passengers.
High maintenance costs.
Some desirable tech features are optional, not standard.
Infotainment system interface can be complex for new users.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the BMW 328i can be on the higher side, approximately $800 to $1,000:

Turbocharger issues can lead to performance lags.
Electrical system faults, particularly with the iDrive.
Noise from front suspension, often requiring early replacements.
Oil leaks common in this model.
Timing chain problems, which could cause engine failures.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.5/10
Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8.5/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 8.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The driving experience is unmatched; it's both smooth and thrilling."
"Luxury feel with impressive fuel economy, though maintenance can be pricey."
"Enjoy the advanced safety features; they give me additional confidence on the road."
"Tech-wise, a bit overwhelming at first but gets easier with use."
"Solid build quality, but encountered some minor electronic glitches."

Best Cars in this Category

2014 Audi A4
2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2014 Lexus IS 250
2014 Cadillac ATS
2014 Infiniti Q50

Summary

The 2014 BMW 328i is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize driving enjoyment coupled with refinement. Offering a robust suite of features and performance capabilities, this vehicle maintains its allure even years after its release. While maintenance costs can be significant, the value, performance, and luxury it provides make the BMW 328i a remarkable choice in the compact luxury class.