Finally, the auto start-stop system is a useful fuel-saver that seems to work a little more smoothly than it did in the 2013 BMW 320i I recently drove. What would be better is if it wouldn’t shut the engine off so quickly. When stopping at a controlled intersection, for instance, one’s tendency may be to stop, creep forward a bit, stop, move ahead, and so on. With the engine automatically shutting down and restarting every few seconds, it’s yet another distraction. You can defeat the system with a button on the dash, but it would be good to maybe have the engine shut down maybe after 10 seconds, rather than three, or make the interval driver selectable.
I haven’t yet mentioned the LED puddle lights. They’re situated under each door handle and illuminate as you approach the car (you’ll need to use your key fob to unlock the doors as you walk toward the car, rather than waiting until you get to the car to use the auto-unlock feature). Everybody comments positively on these, which help light your way in the dark and look most impressive.
Winter has now arrived in Ottawa, and not gently. Winter tires are therefore in order, and our 2014 BMW 328d test drive will conclude with a focus on vehicle dynamics, winter driving and more thoughts on the driver interface.
Pricing: 2014 BMW 328d
Base price: $47,700
Options: Sport Line – $1,500; Glacier Silver Metallic – $800;Driver Assistance Package – $1,350; Premium Package – $4,000, ConnectedDrive Services package – $850
Freight/PDI: $2,095
A/C Tax: $100
As-tested price: $58,345
Competitors:
Audi A4
Lexus IS
Infiniti Q50
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Volvo S60
