I just got the keys to a 2025 BMW 330i press unit for an upcoming review, and, after a brief drive, I can say that this car still delivers an engaging driving experience. Coming from the seat of a Lucid Air Touring, my expectations for a premium luxury car were certainly high.
The 3 Series doesn’t absorb bumps with the same plushness as the Lucid, and it doesn’t showcase its technology with the same level of sophistication. However, the 330i remains a compelling choice in its segment. I’m genuinely curious to hear what others think: can anyone convince me that the G20 is not the best compact sports sedan one can buy?
I have a particular fondness for entry-level sports sedans. When I recently drove the Cadillac CT5 (full review coming soon!), I noted that its base form is a fantastic vehicle. It’s easy to overlook the more accessible models in a lineup when we are fixated on the high-performance variants. The 330i, in its current iteration, is an excellent example of this.
One of the main reasons for the 330i’s winning formula is its chassis. Based on BMW’s CLAR architecture, which can support both internal combustion and electric powertrains, the chassis feels rock-solid, communicative, and exceptionally well-balanced. This platform goes a long way in helping the 3 Series reclaim its title as the Ultimate Driving Machine. This current G20 platform is noticeably sharper than its softer F30 predecessor.
The second factor in the 330i’s favor is its engine: BMW’s workhorse B48. This turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, also used across the MINI lineup, generates 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission, widely considered one of the best gearboxes currently available. The model I’m driving is equipped with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which is standard in Canada. The U.S. market still offers the entry-level 3 Series in a rear-wheel-drive configuration.
This is a quick take from a single drive. But, I’ve driven this generation G20 3 Series and the 330i previously. While the memory of how modern luxury cars are set up starts to fade, the 330i, even in Comfort Mode, is a firm vehicle on road imperfections. Still, it remains a very good car.
Here are some of my initial impressions after about an hour behind the wheel:
Things I Like About the 2025 BMW 330i
- The car feels connected to the road.
- The steering is well-weighted and enjoyable.
- Build quality is superb.
- The four-cylinder engine offers strong acceleration.
Things I Don’t Like About the 2025 BMW 330i
- The exterior styling is an acquired taste.
- The suspension is on the firm side.
- The interior feels a bit cramped.
- The infotainment system is still a learning curve.
Where the 3 Series truly shines, especially compared to other sports sedans in this price range, is in its ability to feel like a sports car. How it reacts to your inputs, and how the turbocharged engine pulls strong at any RPM and is paired with a lightning quick transmission are testaments to BMW’s commitment to driver involvement.
Although the interior feels compact, the front seats are supportive, comfortable, and look great, thanks to their caramel leather. The 3 Series is also put together well, with no unwanted cabin rattles and minimal wind and road noise, given the winter tire specification of my press unit. Right off the get-go, I just know that this car is good, and the best in its segment. Convince me otherwise? Let me know your thoughts in the comments. I’ll share a more in-depth review soon.
