2020 BMW 330

The last-generation 3 Series disappointed legions of BMW enthusiasts by being less involving and fun to drive, while also not exactly wowing traditional luxury car shoppers with its well-built-but-drab interior. Last year's complete overhaul addressed both areas and the 2020 BMW 3 Series is a far more appealing car as a result. It's both better to drive and a more obvious luxury car, while also impressing with its safety ratings and an engine lineup that manages to deliver both eye-popping acceleration numbers and thrifty fuel economy. That said, its age-old rivals, the Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4, aren't far off its dynamic pace despite their aging designs, while the Alfa Romeo Giulia retains the driving fun crown that used to rest resolutely upon the 3 Series' head. There's even an upstart challenger in the Genesis G70, while more luxury-minded shoppers would be wise to consider the Volvo S60 as well. So although the 3 Series has regained some of its old mojo, choosing one isn't easy like it once was. . What's new for 2020? The 3 Series was completely redesigned last year, but there was something missing in the latest G20 generation. Well, besides a manual transmission. That would be an inline-six engine, which makes its return to the lineup for 2020 in the new M340i model pictured above. Besides the more powerful engine, the M340i represents a comprehensive collection of performance-enhancing elements that bridges the gap between the regular 3 Series models and the future M3.  The plug-in hybrid 330e arrives next model year. What's the 3 Series interior and in-car technology like? The latest 3 Series interior sacrifices some ergonomic functionality in favor of a more eye-catching design with richer materials. It was a good call, as the 3 Series now looks and feels more luxurious, especially when compared to segment standouts the Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4 and Volvo S60. At the same time, functionality hasn't been written off – controls are still easily reached and there's ample storage space. We go in-depth about the 3 Series interior in the video above and in our 2020 3 Series Interior Driveway Test. The 3 Series can be optioned with the latest BMW iDrive 7.0 tech interface, which we review here. We generally like it, especially the myriad ways to accomplish the same tasks – knob, buttons, touchscreen, voice controls. Basically, it allows you to operate the car as you'd prefer. That said, iDrive is still pretty complex, and some may find its menu structure a little overwhelming, especially at first. Android Auto is also not available, and while Apple CarPlay is thankfully now standard and works wirelessly, we have had connectivity issues with some BMW test cars. How big is the 3 Series? This is the biggest 3 Series ever, growing to proportions that would've rivaled the 5 Series 20 years ago. While this isn't great news for its role as a sport sedan, it does improve its luxury credentials by providing an impressive amount of back seat …
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