How many cylinders does a BMW 3 Series have?
4 Answers
The BMW 3 Series is equipped with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines. The only generation to feature a three-cylinder engine was the sixth generation, where the 318 model used a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The 3 Series has been localized for the Chinese market, and all domestically produced 3 Series models use a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The domestically produced 3 Series employs three versions of this engine: a low-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 156 horsepower and 250 Nm of maximum torque, a medium-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 184 horsepower and 300 Nm of maximum torque, and a high-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 258 horsepower and 400 Nm of maximum torque.
I just bought the new 3 Series last month, and most models now come with four-cylinder engines. For example, the common 320Li and 325Li both use a 2.0T four-cylinder engine. BMW has done an impressive job tuning these four-cylinders in recent years—my 184-horsepower version accelerates quickly and smoothly, with fuel consumption just over 7L/100km, much more efficient than the old six-cylinder models. However, if you're looking for used older models, you might come across beasts like the pre-2019 340i with a six-cylinder engine—the sound is truly thrilling. The new models also come with a 48V mild hybrid system, so the auto start-stop doesn’t even shudder anymore.
Long-time BMW engine enthusiasts are well aware of the interesting evolution in cylinder counts for the 3 Series. Current G-generation models uniformly start with four-cylinder engines, with even the 330i featuring a tuned-up 2.0T four-cylinder pushing over 260 horsepower – more than adequate for rear-wheel drive. Earlier F30 generations had the straight-six 335i, which was later replaced by the B48 four-cylinder. A special mention goes to the M3: the current model uses the S58 six-cylinder engine, but don't expect that in the standard versions. With today's advanced turbo technology, modern four-cylinders deliver more torque than older naturally aspirated six-cylinders, making city driving and overtaking effortless.
I've been driving a taxi for twelve years and have repaired more 3 Series than passengers I've seen. Nowadays, the new 3 Series mostly come with four-cylinder engines, which are much simpler to repair compared to the old six-cylinder ones, and the parts are cheaper too. Last month, I fixed a 325 with the common issue of the turbo water pipe leaking coolant—done in two hours. If you want more power, a stage 1 tune on the four-cylinder can give you an extra 50 horsepower. Still, I miss the smoothness of the six-cylinder engines from the E90 era, which the new cars can't match. I'd recommend going for the 325 standard wheelbase—the four-cylinder engine paired with the shorter body offers the best balance.
