BMW 3 Series LWB Petrol vs Diesel: Which Should You Buy in India?

The BMW 3 Series LWB gets creative when it comes to offering what it has - a Rs. 60.6 lakh of pure luxury combined with performance and ample legroom. This extended wheelbase version of BMW 3 series offers both petrol and diesel options, where choosing between those brings here. So, which is better: BMW 3 Series LWB petrol or diesel?

Well, each one has their own respective uses. Petrol ones focus more on smooth performance, refinement and daily usability while Diesel variants are for instant torque and fuel efficiency. The blog discusses their differences in detail and compares BMW 3 Series LWB petrol vs diesel on performance, mileage and running costs.

BMW 3 Series LWB Petrol vs Diesel: Key Differences

The key differences lie in overall output performance and mileage. Now, the BMW 3 Series LWB variants are in total 4 which are equally divided in diesel and petrol. Although their engine size, gearbox are all identical, their character differs. The petrol engine produces 254.5 bhp and 400 Nm, while the diesel makes 187 bhp and 400 Nm. The petrol is therefore significantly quicker, while the diesel offers better claimed fuel efficiency.

The biggest difference is the torque output, with the diesel delivering substantially more pulling power. On the other hand, the petrol engine offers a smoother and more refined character, making it appealing for buyers who prioritise performance and everyday driving comfort.

BMW 3 Series LWB Price and Variants

The BMW 3 Series LWB is available in four variants, split equally between petrol and diesel options. While the engine choice remains the biggest difference, the higher-spec variants add equipment and styling upgrades at a premium.

The 330Li petrol variants offer the stronger performance, while the 320Ld diesel versions focus on efficiency and long-distance usability. Among the four, the 50 Jahre Edition provides a distinctive limited-edition appeal, whereas the M Sport Pro and M Sport variants offer different equipment levels.

BMW 3 Series LWB Petrol vs Diesel: Performance and Driving Experience

The BMW 3 Series LWB petrol and diesel versions offer distinctly different driving experiences. While the petrol focuses on stronger performance and refinement, the diesel prioritises efficiency and relaxed long-distance driving.

BMW Petrol Variant

• Comparing 3 Series petrol and diesel on power generation, the petrol variants lead. The turbo-petrol engine gives out 254.5 bhp power, 67.5 bhp more than diesel’s 187 bhp.
• In terms of acceleration also, petrol versions can go from 0 - 100 in 6.2 seconds. This is 1.4 seconds quicker in comparison to diesel variants.
• The petrol engines are quieter and smoother. For those who value refined performance and engaging experience, petrol variants are a great deal.
• The 8-speed automatic gearbox works well with the petrol engine. You’ll get quick and smooth gear shifts in both city and highway driving.
• Now for driving, they make more sense where usage is not much. More suitable in city driving on paved roads.

BMW Diesel Variant

• The diesel variants produce 187 bhp power at 400 Nm peak torque. Petrol variants also have the same torque but have higher power than diesels.
• It takes 7.6 seconds to reach 100 kmph, so it cannot match the petrol for acceleration.
• Mileage is the key winning ground for diesels since they offer up to 19.61 kmpl mileage (claimed) against 15.39 kmpl for petrol.
• Its strong torque delivery makes highway cruising effortless, particularly when maintaining speed or overtaking at higher speeds.
• The diesel engine is better suited to buyers who regularly cover long distances and want to keep fuel consumption under control.
• For high annual running, the diesel can make more financial sense despite giving up some performance and refinement compared with the petrol.

BMW 3 Series LWB Petrol vs Diesel: Mileage, Running Cost and Ownership

Mileage is where the diesel BMW 3 Series LWB gains a clear advantage over the petrol version. This difference becomes more relevant for buyers with high annual running, while petrol buyers can benefit from its smoother and more refined character.

*Based on claimed mileage figures; actual fuel consumption will vary with driving conditions.

What do these figures mean for ownership?

• The diesel offers 4.22 kmpl higher claimed mileage, giving it a clear advantage for frequent and long-distance driving.
• At 10,000 km, the diesel would theoretically consume around 140 litres less fuel than the petrol.
• The saving becomes more significant as annual running increases, making the diesel more suitable for high-mileage owners.
• For predominantly city-based users with moderate running, the petrol's lower fuel efficiency may be easier to justify for its smoother and quieter character.
• Buyers doing mostly short trips should also consider their usage pattern before choosing a diesel, rather than selecting it purely for its higher mileage.

Conclusion

In a comparison of BMW 3 Series LWB petrol vs diesel, the choice ultimately depends on driving requirements and priorities. If you want petrol, those are a better pick if the demand is for stronger performance, smoother refinement and moderate running. On the other hand, the diesel suits those covering higher distances and prioritising fuel efficiency.

The exterior appeal, interior, features and even engine size and transmission are more or less the same. But even then it is the feel of drive that matters and the difference of fuel type is something that can’t be ignored.

FAQs on BMW 3 Series LWB Petrol vs Diesel

What is the BMW 3 Series LWB petrol mileage?

The BMW 3 Series LWB petrol delivers a claimed mileage of 15.39 kmpl. Real-world mileage can vary based on traffic, driving style and road conditions.

Why does the BMW 3 Series LWB diesel deliver less power?

The diesel 320Ld produces 190 PS compared with the petrol’s 258 PS, reflecting different engine characteristics despite both producing 400 Nm of torque.

Are BMW 3 Series LWB petrol variants cheaper than diesel variants?

Yes, the petrol 330Li variants are generally cheaper than their diesel counterparts, although the exact price difference varies depending on the selected trim and edition.

Which BMW 3 Series LWB variant is the most expensive?

The BMW 3 Series LWB 320Ld M Sport diesel is the most expensive variant, positioned above the petrol and other diesel options in the lineup.

Which BMW 3 Series LWB is better for high running?

The 320Ld diesel is better suited to high running, offering 19.61 kmpl claimed mileage compared with 15.39 kmpl for the petrol version.

Still deciding on a luxury sedan? Read our BMW 5 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class comparison for a premium face-off.