As a car enthusiast and writer specializing in electric vehicles, it might seem odd that my daily driver is a 2010 BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics, a diesel car. While my passion lies in EVs, practical limitations in Bucharest, Romania, where home charging isn’t feasible for me yet, make a diesel a more sensible choice for now. This article explores why the Bmw320d fits my current needs, its performance, fuel efficiency, and my future EV aspirations.
Choosing the BMW 320d: A Practical Decision
My journey into automotive journalism began a decade ago, fueled by a desire to escape the corporate world. Years of writing about EVs and alternative fuel vehicles solidified my interest in owning an electric car. However, the reality of limited charging infrastructure in Bucharest necessitates a different approach. Until I can secure a house with a garage for home charging, the bmw320d offers a compelling compromise.
BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics: Performance and Efficiency
My bmw320d, purchased used with one previous owner, boasts a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 161 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, it achieves 0-62 mph in just over 8 seconds and a top speed of 142 mph. While not exceptionally fast, its performance is more than adequate, especially considering its impressive fuel economy.
BMW claims a combined fuel consumption of 57.4 mpg US, thanks to features like an active front grille and aerodynamic enhancements. While this figure is difficult to achieve in real-world city driving, my average of 30.95 mpg US is still respectable, especially without actively striving for maximum efficiency.
Thriving on the Open Road: The bmw320d’s Element
While city driving isn’t ideal for the bmw320d’s engine long-term, it performs admirably. Its true strength emerges on highways and winding roads. On longer journeys with a light foot, fuel consumption can dip below 58.8 mpg US. The bmw320d truly shines on twisty roads, where its responsive handling, sharp steering, and ample mid-range torque deliver a rewarding driving experience, surpassing even its newer successors in terms of steering feel.
Looking Ahead: Future EV Aspirations
Despite my fondness for the bmw320d, my future car purchase will likely be an EV, hopefully the BMW i4 or Mercedes-Benz EQE. If charging infrastructure remains a challenge, a plug-in hybrid like the BMW 330e could be a viable alternative. Used EVs like the BMW i3 or Hyundai Ioniq are also appealing, though limited range on older models presents a constraint.
Conclusion: The bmw320d – A Temporary Solution
The bmw320d serves as a practical and enjoyable interim solution until EV ownership becomes more feasible in Bucharest. It demonstrates that diesel cars, particularly efficient models like the bmw320d Efficient Dynamics, can still offer a compelling blend of performance, fuel economy, and driving pleasure. While my heart remains set on an electric future, the bmw320d continues to impress as my current daily driver.
