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While the powertrain options for the 2023 BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine carry over from the previous model, the design and interior have undergone significant improvements.
Story: Kurt Morris
Photography: Apurva Ambep
Launched in Indonesia this year, the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is imported via the CKD (completely knock down) route and will be assembled locally at the company’s production facility in Chennai. Like the previous model, Gran Limousine is available in petrol and diesel versions. The car is only offered in BMW 330Li M Sport and BMW 320Ld M Sport trim levels, priced at (ex-showroom) Rs 57.90 lakh and Rs 59.50 lakh respectively.
The 3 Series has always been a strong model in terms of BMW sales. Now the wheelbase of the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine has been increased by 110 millimeters over the standard model, making it the longest vehicle in its class. As a result, its size is 4823 mm. This is sure to appeal to our Indian shoppers who tend to take a backseat and be driven around in rush hour traffic.
The elongated body, which, as noted earlier, now measures 4,823mm overall thanks to a 110mm increase in wheelbase, is the most striking visual change. For the most part, the general design is still reminiscent of the standard 3 Series wheelbase. The striking and dynamic design of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is accentuated by the chrome double bars on the BMW Kidney Grille. With a clear outline and daytime running lights positioned in an inverted “L” shape for a unified, contemporary image, the standard full-LED headlight is now even thinner. The outer daytime running light component also functions as a turn signal. The long wheelbase and low sedan body, together with slight design modifications, make it the sportiest looking limousine on the market. So eye-catching in this Portimão blue. The M Sport bumper has a large air dam and black inlays which give it a sporty and cool look.
The M Sport package, which includes a larger central air intake, slightly angular bumpers and 18-inch alloy wheels with a staggered tire configuration, is standard across the range, including a 330Li petrol and 320Ld diesel. The rear tires are much wider and have a somewhat lower profile at 255/40 than the front tires, namely 225 section 45 profile. These are Michelin tires and it has to be said that they offer plenty of traction.
BMW has also improved the foam cushioning of the seats, which are covered in Vernasca leather and provide a beautiful appearance and comfort, especially on long trips. There are two Type-C charging outlets in addition to the ac vent and controls.
Given what the Gran Limousine is based on, it’s no surprise that everything in it is taken straight from the regular 3 Series. Unexpectedly, BMW has made many subtle but substantial improvements to the appearance of this cabin and we have to place the BMW interior at the top of the list among the current generation of German cars.
The Gran Limousine now has an eight-speed automatic transmission, which is another significant physical design change. The old car has a beefy gear lever. The vital iDrive is powered by the latest BMW 8 Operating System, which is, in my opinion, more user-friendly than the previous version.
The inside features enhanced legroom, a curved display running on the BMW 8 Operating System, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch Control Display. Additionally, the car is equipped with a 16-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charger, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, and more. When you sit in the car, the only visible change that catches your eye is the new digital display.
Six airbags, attention assist, dynamic stability control (DSC), cornering brake control (CBC), automatic parking brake, side impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and ISOFIX child seat mounts are all included in the safety kit.
The BMW 320Ld is a powerful sedan with a 2.0 liter turbo diesel engine. The four-cylinder diesel engine produces 190 hp at 4,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 1,750–2,500 rpm. Sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and facilitates smooth gear changes.
Well, what stands out the most for us in terms of performance is the outstanding fuel efficiency of the 3 Series. On our usual test route in town we see an average of 15 km/l and when we do the highways we see around 21 km/l. This is extraordinary for a premium luxury sedan of this size.
Gran Limousine has added a level of poise to the driving experience of the BMW 3 Series which was previously known as a very exciting car to drive with agility. Drive well, comfortable to drive and become an amazing city car. When driven with gusto, it responds very well, with good cornering stability and enough engine power to keep things interesting. But this car won’t reward you if you drive too hard. When entering a corner at high speed, the 50:50 weight distribution is effective and one never feels that the car will not be able to pass it. The car holds its ground on bumpy roads without breaking a sweat thanks to the firmer suspension. Even larger holes than we are used to handle just fine.
After all, this is a luxury long-wheelbase sedan in a country where people still prefer sedans with roomy rear seats. The 3 Series became BMW’s bestseller in India due to its foolproof formula that worked for them. One of the most useful vehicles in this segment is the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine. Only the extended wheelbase and the M Sport version of the 3 Series Gran Limousine are currently offered. We’ll have to wait and see if, like the previous model, the 3 Series is a hit in the SUV-switched market.
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