BMW has created a new entry-level model for its E92 3-series coupe with the introduction of a new four-cylinder engine range. The first model in the lineup will now be the 320i coupe powered by a 170hp (125kW) 2.0L gasoline unit. The revised four-banger comes with BMW’s Valvetronic technology and Bi-Vanos variable camshaft adjustment and produces peak power of 170hp (125kW) at 6,400rpm with peak torque of 200Nm coming in at 3,600rpm. When equipped with the six-speed manual, BMW claims it will reach 100km/h from rest in 8.1 seconds and tops out 230km/h. Average fuel consumption is said to be 6.3L per 100km.

A second model is a new diesel version that’s powered by a 2.0L mill delivering 177hp (130kW) and 350Nm of torque. The 320d can complete the 0-100km/h sprint in roughly 7.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 232km/h, while returning an average consumption figure of 4.9L per 100km/h.

The starting price for the gasoline model should be close to €32,400, while the diesel tips in at €35,600, and there’s no word on whether these models will be sold in the US.

For entry level engines these are still pretty fast! They are great value as well!

Thanks for the info JM!

Nice performance from so-called "entry level" engines.

BMW's engine technology has moved on so quickly in the last five or so years - more power and yet better fuel consumption.

Who would've thought entry level models would be so quick a decade ago?

Pity that this new 320i (2,0 liter I4) can't match the old 320i (2,2 liter I6) in engine refinement and sound.

Very true! But still, at least it matches the power of the 6 cylinder version.

It's 4 vs 6 cylinder, not much BMW can do about that.

Diesel for me please.

That's why they should have kept the 320i as a six cylinder IMO.

E46 vs E90 (as of sept. 2007)
316i 115hp/175Nm ---> 318i 129hp/180Nm (143hp/190Hp)
318i 143hp/200Nm ---> 320i 150hp/200Nm (170hp/210Nm)
320i 170hp/210Nm ---> 325i 218hp/250Nm (218hp/270Nm)
325i 192hp/245Nm ---> 330i 258hp/300Nm (272hp/320Nm)
330i 231hp/300Nm ---> 335i 306hp/400Nm

E46: 2 four cylinder engines, 3 six cylinder engines
E90: 2 four cylinder engines, 3 six cylinder engines

That's true but now there isn't a cheaper 6 cylinder model in the 3 series model range (the current 325i is similarly priced as the previous 325i). There is a 323i but it's only for the Canadian market.