Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Touring (E46) |
| Type (Engine) | 328i (193 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.3 l/100 km (15.4 US mpg, 18.5 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 193 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 3500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M52B28 |
| Engine displacement | 2798 cm3 (170.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 435 l (15.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1345 l (47.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4478 mm (176.3 in.) |
| Width | 1739 mm (68.46 in.) |
| Height | 1409 mm (55.47 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm (107.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The BMW 3 Series Touring (E46) 328i Automatic, produced from 1999 to 2000, represents a compelling blend of practicality and performance within the E46 generation of BMW’s iconic 3 Series. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the Touring (wagon) body style, it catered to buyers seeking a more versatile vehicle without sacrificing the driving experience synonymous with the BMW brand. This variant utilized the M52B28 inline-six engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience. The E46 platform, known internally as 1HX0, was a significant step forward for BMW, incorporating increased rigidity and improved suspension geometry compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 328i Touring Automatic is the M52B28, a 2.8-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a descendant of BMW’s long-respected M52 series, known for its smooth power delivery and robust construction. The M52B28 features a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise control over the air-fuel mixture. The engine produces 193 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. Paired with this engine is a 5-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and convenience. This transmission, while not as sporty as the available manual, was geared towards providing a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both fuel efficiency and reasonable acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 328i Touring Automatic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as its manual transmission counterparts or the higher-output 330i models, it provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission contributes to a smoother ride, particularly in urban environments. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.6 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). The automatic transmission’s shift points are generally well-chosen, but can sometimes feel slightly hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the 6-speed manual, the automatic sacrifices some driver engagement, but gains in ease of use. The Touring body style adds some weight compared to the sedan, slightly impacting acceleration and handling, but the added practicality is a significant benefit for many drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 328i Touring Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM stereo system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available. Dashboard trim could vary, with wood or metallic accents offered. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. The 328i trim level sat in the middle of the E46 Touring range, offering a balance between features and price. It was positioned above the base 323i and below the more powerful and luxurious 330i.
Chassis & Braking
The E46 Touring utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 328i models typically featured thicker stabilizer bars compared to the 323i, further enhancing handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard equipment. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a balance between comfort and handling, making the 328i Touring a capable and enjoyable vehicle to drive on a variety of road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 328i Touring Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and practical wagon body style. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission lacked the engagement of the manual gearbox. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its class, averaging around 15.3 l/100 km (15.4 US mpg) in urban driving and 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) on the highway. Compared to the 323i, the 328i offered a noticeable performance upgrade. Compared to the 330i, it provided a more affordable entry point into the E46 Touring range, albeit with slightly less power.
Legacy
The M52B28 engine, found in the 328i Touring Automatic, is known for its reliability and durability. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The automatic transmission, while not as robust as some other BMW transmissions, is generally reliable if fluid changes are performed regularly. Today, the E46 328i Touring Automatic represents a compelling value in the used car market. It offers a blend of practicality, performance, and BMW refinement at an affordable price point. However, potential buyers should be aware of common E46 issues, such as cooling system leaks and subframe corrosion, and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
