How Many Cylinders Does the BMW 3 Series 320 Engine Have?
3 Answers
The BMW 3 Series 320 is equipped with a four-cylinder engine, manufactured in a German factory, making it an imported engine. The engine model of the BMW 3 Series 320 is B48B20C, with a maximum power output of 115 kW, a maximum torque of 250 Nm, and a maximum horsepower of 156. Here are some maintenance tips for the BMW 3 Series 320 engine: Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, select SD--SF grade gasoline engine oil based on the additional equipment in the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions. For diesel engines, choose CB--CD grade diesel engine oil according to mechanical load, ensuring the standard meets or exceeds the manufacturer's requirements. Regularly change the engine oil and filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will degrade over time. After a certain mileage, the oil's performance deteriorates, leading to various engine issues. To prevent malfunctions, change the oil periodically based on usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level. As oil passes through the fine pores of the filter, solid particles and viscous substances accumulate in the filter. If the filter becomes clogged and oil cannot pass through, it may rupture the filter or open the safety valve, allowing oil to bypass the filter and carry contaminants back to the lubrication points, accelerating engine wear and increasing internal contamination. Regularly clean the crankcase. During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides from the combustion chamber enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls. These mix with metal particles from component wear to form sludge. Small amounts remain suspended in the oil, but larger quantities can precipitate, clogging filters and oil passages, making engine lubrication difficult and causing wear. Periodically use a radiator cleaner to flush the radiator. Removing rust and scale deposits not only ensures proper engine operation but also extends the lifespan of both the radiator and the engine.
I remember the BMW 320 model, which used a four-cylinder engine, a pretty mainstream configuration. The current new BMW 3 Series 320i is equipped with turbocharged four-cylinder engines, such as the B48 engine series, delivering around 180 to 190 horsepower with decent torque, providing good acceleration for daily driving. The reason for choosing a four-cylinder engine is BMW's design to balance performance and fuel efficiency—it's lighter than a six-cylinder engine and more fuel-efficient, typically consuming 7-8 liters per 100 km in city driving. I've driven a friend's 320 before and felt the engine noise control was decent; there's a bit of vibration at low speeds but it's very stable at high speeds. Maintenance isn't complicated either—just change the oil and oil filter every 10,000 km and be mindful of carbon buildup. Overall, this car is targeted at younger drivers, with the four-cylinder engine being practical enough for daily use and even some mountain roads. Just don't expect race-level explosive power, but it's definitely sufficient for everyday commuting. I recommend test-driving it before buying to see if the power delivery matches your preferences, as everyone's driving habits differ.
When driving the BMW 320, its engine features a typical four-cylinder design with quick turbocharger response, delivering smooth acceleration without hesitation. As a common model, the 320 uses a four-cylinder primarily for cost control and efficiency optimization, offering better fuel economy compared to higher-end six-cylinder engines. It easily cruises at 120 km/h on the highway, with fuel consumption kept under 8 liters. I appreciate its responsive sensitivity—the start-stop system is very user-friendly in city traffic, though the initial acceleration feels slightly sluggish and requires a deeper press on the throttle. Compared to the older six-cylinder version, the new four-cylinder engine is quieter, but some wind noise is still noticeable at high speeds. In terms of maintenance, the four-cylinder engine has strong parts compatibility, and replacing spark plugs or filters is affordable, even for DIY enthusiasts. BMW has been trending toward smaller-displacement four-cylinders in recent years to meet environmental demands. The 320 strikes a balance between sportiness and practicality, making it especially suitable for buyers with limited budgets who still want a luxury brand experience. Overall, the driving experience is smooth and reliable, even for occasional long trips—just don’t expect the silence of a pure electric vehicle. Regular cooling system checks are recommended to prevent overheating.
