The drive modes — Sport and Sport+ in particular — are more than up to that job, while Eco Pro and Comfort play their roles extremely well: dull response for maximum efficiency and soften things up a little for a plusher and more relaxed ride, respectively. The fact that the revs hover around 1,400 rpm in Comfort means that there is a bit of perceptible lag if you step on the throttle before it gathers sheer velocity. No such issues in Sport, though.
Heavy rain notwithstanding, the BMW 330i went about its business. However, the times seem rather off the claimed figures at least in terms of acceleration. We managed a sprint from naught to 100 km/h in just over seven seconds. BMW claim less than six. The accompanying soundtrack, though symphonic and adequately spirited, seems to lack mass. What’s significant, however, is how quick the 30i is after it really gets moving. The time taken to sprint higher up the speed chain, so to speak, is considerably lesser than what the diesel managed.
The mixed rubber, with 235/45 fronts and 255/40 rears, makes for even better traction, quicker acceleration as well as shorter braking distances and times. Even in the wet, they were superior to what we achieved in the dry with the 320d, with 100 km/h to standstill taking just 2.75 seconds and a geometry-box measuring scale over 39 metres. That’s impressive — more so in the wet.
On the other side of the drive experience modes is Eco Pro. That meant slower times, obviously, but much better fuel efficiency. The BMW 330i showed nine to the litre in the city and as much as 15 km/l on the highway. Given less weight and just one occupant, it could well deliver even more. All of this, mind you, within the confines of a premium cabin secluded from the noise outside thanks to impeccable sound insulation.
At Rs 47.30 lakh plus tax and insurance and a few bits here and there, the BMW 330i M Sport is every bit the petrol-powered precision performance pilgrimage many purists seek. It can convert a mundane commute into driver’s delight — although there is a distinct need to find a nice stretch of road away from traffic which, today, is far harder to come by. Enjoy it while it still exists. The future is focused on getting as much and as many as possible from A to B using the least possible amount of resources, and rightfully so. Sheer driving pleasure, then, will be a distant luxury to many. Let the veins that pulse petrol live now while they still can and few cars are styled, packaged, and calibrated to thrill as well as the new 3 is.
