Which Car! BMW 325i - Video

 There are three engine options for the 3 Series in India - the base model is the 320i with a four-pot engine that displaces 1995cc to produce just about 134 bhp at 6200 rpm and 19.4 kgm of torque at 2250 rpm. As expected, this is not the quickest car in its league and you cannot buy it for its performance - it certainly is a BMW the way it rides and handles though.

The 325i gets the famed 2497cc inline six motor rated at 212 bhp at 4000 clicks and 25 kgm at 4000 rpm. If you are gunning for a petrol-powered entry level Beemer, then this ought to be the engine of choice. An electric glass roof distinguishes the 325i from the 320i, while the interior benefits from a monitor that can double as a television (er, only Doordarshan for the time being) and a sports leather steering wheel.

While ABS (with cornering brake control and dynamic traction control), airbags and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) are standard fitment, the additional functions of DSC are available only for the 325i version. The DSC gets to show its full repertoire of functions in the 325i too. The third option is the 320d with a four-cylinder oil-burner that produces 154 bhp at 4000 rpm and 33.4 kgm at 2750 rpm.

The 325i has got spirited acceleration going for it and the car emits a nice growl while at it. A well-weighted steering wheel ensures that your steering inputs are precisely translated to the wheels and the little BMW rewards you with grace, speed and flawless handling.

The 325i justifies its Rs 32.5 lakh price tag though, and is a capable driving machine that can satiate most enthusiasts.