2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon (pictures)
The modestly spec'd BMW Sport Wagon doesn't attract attention to itself, but it's an excellent driver and matches efficiency with pretty good performance.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
This is the 2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
From some angles, it looks pretty much identical to the sedan.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
In M Sport trim, the wagon's front end picks up a few aggressive styling cues.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
All 328d Sports Wagons feature xDrive all-wheel drive.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
Rear-drive M Sport cars feature a sport suspension that's 20mm lower, but the xDrive Sports Wagon firms up while retaining its standard ride height.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The interior is standard fare 3 Series. Our example didn't come with many optional features.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0L turbo diesel engine.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The driver can select between four driving modes -- Sport, Sport+, Comfort, and Eco Pro -- which alter the characteristics of the car's performance.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The only gearbox that is available on the 328d Sports Wagon is an 8-speed automatic transmission. Fortunately, it's a pretty good auto-box.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
Power is stated at 180 horsepower. Torque is a much higher 280 pound-feet.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The xDrive all-wheel drive system defaults to a 40:60 rear-biased torque split.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
It's a bit longer and wider than a BMW X1 crossover, but is significantly closer to the ground.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
A motorized rear hatch is standard on the 328d Sports Wagon.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
Interestingly, while the X1 has significantly more cargo space with the rear seats upright, the 3 Series Sports Wagon has nearly the same amount of total cargo space when the seats are folded flat.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
A cargo management system is hidden in one of two underfloor storage spaces.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The cabin is driver centric and comes standard with a 6.5-inch iDrive infotainment system.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The iDrive interface has gotten so much easier to use over the years, but there are still times when I get frustrated with how it hides certain options.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The iDrive controller sits on the center console and is easy to reach and understand while driving.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
Without the optional Technology package, the iDrive system only really displays information about the current audio source or fuel economy info.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The M Sport package swaps in an M Sport steering wheel that is trimmed in leather, has a thicker rim, and a smaller diameter.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The amber on black instrumentation is simple and to the point.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
Push button start is standard, but smart keyless entry isn't, which is odd. Here is also where you can enable or disable the Auto Stop-Start fuel saver system.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
A wide variety of infotainment and driver aid technologies are available, but adding them all can push the price of the Sports Wagon uncomfortably high.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The M Sport package upgrades to 18-inch wheels, but this all-wheel drive model sticks with all-season tires, rather than stickier summer rubber.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The M Sport package also adds an adaptive suspension and variable assist electric power steering. The car's handling and steering effort goes from firm and sporty to smooth and easy with the flip of a switch.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
Though steerable Xenon headlamps are available as an option, fixed halogen beams are standard and equipped.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The 2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon is a bit of a sleeper. It doesn't attract a lot of attention, but the torquey diesel and grippy suspension and chassis can be a joy to drive.