EARLY IN SEPTEMBER, BMW Australia announced revised pricing for its six-cylinder 323i sedan. It was a pleasant surprise, as the basic price dropped from $63,200 to $58,300.
The price adjustment saw the six-cylinder equipped 323i undercut the entry-level six-cylinder offerings of Mercedes-Benz and Audi by more than $30,000, and new car buyers have been quick to respond.
In September, BMW Australia sold 92 examples of the 323i, compared to an average September sales rate of 25. Orders for another 121 cars have been taken.
In simpler terms, last month was the strongest month yet for the current generation E90 BMW 323i sedan, surpassing the previous best of 78 in June 2007 - before the 2008 update.
Despite the huge leap in sales for the 323i, sales for the entry-level 320i - only $3800 less than the 323i - have not taken a hit.
Speaking with TMR today, BMW Australia’s Corporate Communications Manager Toni Andreevski said that the reverse has been the case.
“320i sales were strong at 190 for the month of September, which was higher than the same time last year [171], as well as August this year [161],” Mr Andreevski said.
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I’d go with the 320d Touring.
I tested this and the 320d about a month ago (they’re the same price). Man, that engine is sweet! Still, it’s not actually that quick. I’ve been umming and ahhing about buying a beemer for a while and I think I’d probably go for the 323i over the diesel - but only because I don’t do many km’s.
By the way, I bet the Audi and Merc 6 cylinders would trounce this, acceleration wise.
Best car in the segment just got better…
btw - $3,000, not $30,000?
It’s just for promotional. With all the supposedly “dealer charges” plus endless options, there is no price reduction. It’s just gimmick to get attention.
I disagree with you abc. The price was dropped over a month ago and it’s staying that way. Therefore you can’t really call it a ‘promotion’ (as those generally tend to end). Speaking of which, is this car included in BMW’s $4000 promotion or is it just the ‘efficient dynamics’ range?
Another point I’d also disagree on are BMW’s so called endless options. Yes, there are options, but beemers are pretty well optioned up already, whereas if you buy them in Europe, you can get them in a very, very base spec if you wish.
The 323i is a good choice for people who prefer the sound of a six cylinder petrol engine, which I admit is very nice. This is not a fast car due to the weight of around 1500kg (despite BMWs claim about 1430). 250NM torque isn’t enough for a car of this weight. In my opinion BMW needs to bring back the 3.0 litre engine. The fuel efficiency of an larger engine with higher torque can actually be an improvment in typical Australian driving conditions.
I just bought one
Now I just have to tell the wife……