Scoop! BMW 330i launch in March

BMW India is looking to spice up its 3-series range with the launch of the 330i, which will eventually replace the 325i as the range-topper in India. The 3-series flagship will come with a larger three-litre, in-line six-cylinder engine that develops a potent 258bhp, which should propel the sporty saloon to 100kph in under seven seconds before hitting a top speed of 250kph. In fact, the 330i is powered by the same engine as the 530i that's currently on sale in India.

The 330i comes packed with an ocean of equipment and safety features. It gets front and side airbags for driver and co-passenger, engine immobiliser, cruise control with brake function, ABS, automatic stability control (ASC), EBD, and hill-start assist to name a few. On the inside, it features automatic two-zone climate control, multi-function leather steering wheel, an on-board computer, steering adjust for reach and rake, CD player and auxiliary points for an MP3 player with six speakers.

While the 320d forms the bulk of 3-series sales in India, the 330i will appeal only to a handful of enthusiasts and is unlikely to sell in huge numbers. BMW India's decision to launch the 330i is more strategic. Firstly, BMW wants to take on the Audi A4 3.2 V6 petrol but, more importantly, it wants to flesh out its range and offer options at various price points. Prices haven’t been announced yet but we expect the 330i to cost a shade under Rs 40 lakh or a couple of lakhs more than the 325i, which is expected to be discontinued.