If you were waiting for BMW to bring back diesel to their 3 Series, your wait is over. The German luxury carmaker has launched the updated BMW 3 Series LWB (Long Wheelbase) in India and this time they are offering both petrol and diesel options to cater to different driving styles.
What’s New This Time Around?
BMW has ditched the “Gran Limousine” title and kept things basic with the name being the 3 Series LWB. But don’t mistake this for just a cosmetic change. The 2025 model brings meaningful updates that will appeal to Indian buyers who value space, comfort and now fuel efficiency with the diesel option.
The biggest news is the return of diesel power after a brief hiatus. The 320Ld variants join the existing 330Li petrol model, giving buyers more options based on their driving habits and fuel preferences.
Design and Visual Updates
While BMW hasn’t gone for a full makeover, the changes are subtle. The front gets sharper adaptive LED headlights that cut through darkness better, while the kidney grille now has Pearl Chrome slats for a more premium look. At the back, a high-gloss black diffuser adds to the sporty character.
The color options are four – Mineral White, Skyscraper Grey, M Carbon Black and Arctic Race Blue. Each color looks great with the sedan’s athletic proportions, especially with the 4,819mm length that gives it a commanding road presence.
Interior Comfort and Space
Step inside and you’ll notice the quality improvements BMW has made. The Vernasca Cognac leather upholstery feels luxurious, while the new Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite trim strips add a touch of sophistication throughout the cabin.
The 2,961mm wheelbase translates to plenty of rear seat space, something that matters a lot for Indian buyers. Rear passengers get comfortable headrests, good legroom and enough headroom to stretch out during long drives. The cabin feels even more spacious and airy, thanks to the pano sunroof.
Front seat occupants aren’t left out either. The electrically adjustable Comfort Seats come with extendable thigh support and ventilation, perfect for our climate. The new flat-bottomed M Leather Steering Wheel with Galvanic elements feels great in your hands and adds to the sporty character.
Technology That Works
BMW’s Curved Display is the focal point of the dashboard, combining a 12.3-inch digital driver display with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The iDrive Operating System 8.5 responds quickly to touch, gesture or voice commands without the lag you experience in other systems.
Connectivity features:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- BMW Digital Key Plus for smartphone-based entry
- My BMW App with remote 3D vehicle view
- Wireless phone charging pad
- 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system
The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant learns your habits over time and makes suggestions and adjustments that actually work based on how you drive.
Engine Options and Performance
Petrol Power (330Li M Sport): 2.0-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine which makes 258 hp and 400 Nm. Smooth, refined and quick to 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic shifts seamlessly whether you’re cruising or pushing hard.
Diesel Efficiency (320Ld variants): 2.0-liter diesel engine that produces 188 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Not as quick as the petrol (7.6 seconds to 100 km/h) but impressive fuel economy of 19.6 kmpl making it perfect for long distance driving and daily commutes.
Both engines have driving modes (ECO PRO, Comfort and Sport) that adjust throttle response, transmission behavior and steering feel according to your preference.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 3 Series LWB comes with Level 2 ADAS features that makes highway driving less stressful:
- Blind Spot Detection with lane change warnings
- Collision alerts that give you time to react
- Driver Alert System to help prevent fatigue
The Parking Assistant Plus deserves a special mention. This includes a Surround View system with a Top View, Panorama View or even a Remote 3D View via your smartphone. It can do parallel and perpendicular parking with minimal driver input.
Standard safety features include six airbags, Dynamic Stability Control and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function.
Pricing and Variants
BMW has priced the 3 Series LWB quite well in the luxury sedan segment:
- 320Ld M Sport (Diesel): Rs 62.00 lakh
- 330Li M Sport (Petrol): Rs 62.60 lakh
- 320Ld M Sport Pro (Diesel): Rs 65.00 lakh
All prices ex-showroom, India
BMW 3 Series LWB 2025 Specifications
| Specification | 330Li M Sport | 320Ld M Sport/Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo Petrol | 2.0L Diesel |
| Power | 258 hp | 188 hp |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.2 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 kmph | 230 kmph |
| Fuel Economy | 15.39 kmpl | 19.6 kmpl |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic | 8-speed Automatic |
| Length | 4,819 mm | 4,819 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,961 mm | 2,961 mm |
| Price | Rs 62.60 lakh | Rs 62.00/65.00 lakh |
Ownership Benefits
BMW has made ownership more attractive with these programs:
- Service Inclusive packages starting from 3 years/40,000 km
- Extended warranty options up to 10 years
- BMW 360° Finance Plan with flexible terms and assured buy-back
- Condition Based Service (CBS) for ultimate maintenance planning
ALSO READ: BMW i4 M60 Launches with 442 kW Power and Longer Range in 2025 Update
Should You Buy It?
The BMW 3 Series LWB has a strong case in the luxury sedan space. The diesel variants bring back fuel efficiency for those who travel long distances, the petrol variant satisfies the performance enthusiasts. The extended wheelbase gives it a clear edge in rear seat comfort over regular sedans.
If you’re looking for a luxury sedan that balances performance, comfort and practicality, the 3 Series LWB delivers on all three. It is priced to compete with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4 even as the list of features is definitely impressive.
The return of diesel power makes it more appealing for those who want luxury without the running costs. Whether you choose petrol or diesel, you’re getting a well rounded sedan that works well in Indian roads.
