For decades, the BMW 3-series has stood at the head of the luxury sports sedan pack. Although the entry-level model of the bunch, the BMW 330i xDrive is no slouch. This model includes an impressive powertrain (including hybrid options), a tech-forward interior with available AR navigation, plenty of safety and driver-assistance features, and more.
Read on for our full review of the BMW 330i xDrive, a comparison with the Mercedes-Benz Class A Sedan, and our answers to some frequently asked questions here at Lou Bachrodt BMW.
2024 BMW 330i xDrive specs, features, & performance
The BMW 330i xDrive’s baseline features offer powerful and nimble performance. Available add-ons take that performance to the next level. Here’s our breakdown of what to expect with this BMW model.
Powertrain & performance
The 330i offers a turbocharged 2.0-L four-cylinder that generates 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with a rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional.
In terms of suspension, you get three options: the base arrangement, or adding on the tauter M Sport turning or Dynamic Handling package with adaptive dampers. The xDrive model can hit 60 mph in an impressive 5.2 seconds.
Fuel economy
According to the EPA, the four-cylinder BMW 330i gets 24 mpg city, 33 highway, and 27 combined.
Interior features
On the inside, the 330i sports a modern, sleek design made from quality materials. Expect plenty of support from the sedan’s standard sport seats, plus a range of adjustment options to keep any driver or passenger comfortable.
Available features include a detailed heads-up display, ambient interior lighting, heated seats, remote states, and a wireless charging pad. Overall, you can expect 17 cubic feet of cargo space, roughly six carry-on suitcases, in the trunk.
Infotainment & connectivity
A single panel combines the 330i’s high-resolution 12.3-inch gauge display and 14.9-inch infotainment display, both of which are situated on top of the dashboard. Many users comment on the fact that the screens are so sharp that you can read them even in direct sunlight. Both run BMW’s iDrive 8.5 operating system.
Additional standard features include in-dash navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a built-in 5G Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety features
In terms of safety, the BMW 330i comes standard with forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking. Available safety features include lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and more.
Warranty & maintenance coverage
BMW offers a limited warranty covering for years or 50,000 miles, and a powertrain warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles. For the first three years of ownership (or 36,000 miles), routine maintenance is complimentary.
What is the 2024 BMW 330i price?
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2024 BMW 330i starts at $46,675, but can go higher depending on any customizations or add-ons you include. To get a sense of the best price in the Rockford, IL, area, visit the Lou Bachrodt BMW inventory.
Comparison: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Now let’s take a look at how the BMW 330i xDrive stacks against the competition. For this article, we’re looking at the Mercedes-Benz C-Class as our comparison model.
Price
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class runs from $48,100 to $52,200, depending on the exact model and customizations you choose. The BMW 330i comes out slightly ahead of the C-Class in terms of price.
Powertrain & performance
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class sports a turbo 2.0-L four-cylinder that can generate 255 horsepower, just like the BMW 330i. When paired with a 48-volt hybrid system, that engine can add another 20 ponies. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Plus, you have the option to add an all-wheel drive.
In terms of powertrain, the BMW 330i and Mercedes-Benz C-Class are a solid tie.
Fuel economy
According to the EPA, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a gas mileage of 23 mpg city, 33 highway, and 27 combined. This is almost exactly the same as the BMW 330i.
Interior features
Like the 330i, the C-Class sports plenty of interior creature comforts. These include a digital gauge display and touch-sensitive controls. Other standard interior features include heated front seats, a sunroof, real wood trim, and aluminum accents. However, the BMW 330i offers more available interior amenities, which is why we have to put it just ahead.
Infotainment & connectivity
Although not as large as the 330i’s infotainment system, the C-Class’s 11.9-inch vertical display sweeps over the entire center console. This system runs Mercedes’s MBUX infotainment operating system with a voice operated digital assistant and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included.
The 12.3-inch digital gauge display is the same size as the 330i, and you have the option to add a heads-up display, ambient lighting, and surround stereo system. All in all, we’d say the 330i offers a slightly better infotainment experience than its competitor.
Safety features
In terms of safety, the Mercedes C-Class has the same standard and available features as the BMW 330i. Automated emergency braking comes standard. Add-ons include lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-centering. We’d call this one a tie.
Warranty & maintenance
The Mercedes comes with a limited warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles, and a powertrain warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles. No complimentary maintenance is included. For this reason, the BMW is a far better choice.
BMW 330i FAQs
How much is the 2024 BMW 330i?
The starting price for the 2024 BMW 330i is just under $47K. This can change depending on add-ons and customizations.
What is the update for the BMW 3 Series 2024?
The 2024 BMW 3 Series features no significant updates from the previous year. This is because 2023 saw a major refresh, most notably a sleeker design and updated dashboard display.
What engine is in a 2024 BMW 330i?
The 2024 BMW 330i runs on a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder. It generates 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and can hit 60 mph in 5.2 seconds.
What is the difference between BMW 330i and 330i xDrive?
The primary difference between the BMW 330i and 330i xDrive is the drivetrain. The 330i features the standard rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive sports an all-wheel drive.
Final thoughts on the BMW 330i
Although it’s a tight race (no pun intended) the BMW 330i is the best choice for a luxury sedan. Even the entry-level of the BMW 3-series fares far better than other options on the market.
If you agree, then stop by Lou Bachrodt BMW. Our team will guide you through your BMW purchase, start to finish. By the time you’re driving your vehicle off the lot, you’ll be 100% confident you made the right choice.
Schedule an appointment at Lou Bachrodt BMW today.
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