[raleedy]

Well, really, the model number is more about trim level in the U.S. than it is about engines. Since the 320d isn't sold in the U.S., it's not useful to compare it with the 328d that will be offered here soon. Keep in mind that (a) all US models are cheaper than their European counterparts comparably equipped, and (b) a European 320d equipped comparably to the US 328d is more expensive in Europe than a European 328i, so pricing the US 328d above the US 328i is consistent. Personally, I'm reasonably happy that it's a 328 and not a 320 for which -- in the United States, anyway -- many of the 3-series packages and options and bells and whistles are not available at all.

[WULFFZA]

Just because a 320d costs less than a 328i in Europe does not mean they are jacking the price to make big profit in the US. Because the take rate on diesels in the US will be much lower than in Europe the cost of certification, parts stocking and technician training (to name a few "fixed" costs) has be spread over fewer cars. As mentioned above, the US emissions regulations also require some additional components.

Each model, engine and transmission configuration is costed individually from a budgeting perspective. That is how the products are presented for approval, and results are monitored. So, cost + x% margin consistent with other 3 series = $xx,xxx. OK so that's more than a 328i. Well, we'll have to think of a way to market it at that price...well, it'll have to be a 328d...
The badging anomoly is caused by the 'bigger is better' American consumer, not a greedy corporation.

And as pointed out elsewhere, we still have the cheapest pricing in the world.

[ScarecrowBoat]

Originally Posted by clbmw

It's so a 320d why they call it 328d I cannot fathom. I know it's image but come on it's beyond stretching the truth.

It will likely be optioned similar to a 328d and will not be the "base" 3er like the 320i is. Who cares, the 328 doesn't have a 2.8 liter, the 335 doesn't have a 3.5 liter...the designation sounds good and is appropriate given the other options. In the US it's going to be sold as a middle of the road car, so in reality I cannot fathom why they would name it the 320d and then try to sell it for $39k.

[kevlartoronto]

it will be an interesting sell. the 335d was a bomb because it was at the top of the snack bracket and americans seem to hate diesels. Then there's the issue of the ridiculous diesel prices in the states. at least in canada, if i was comparing the 328i (or most of the other small turbos) and the 328d you have to factor in fuel prices. most of the year diesel is cheaper than regular petrol. that means it's a good 15-20 cents/litre or 80 cents a gallon cheaper than premium. that is going to make this car maybe 40% cheaper to operate. in the end, people might not give a hoot and still ignore this car because it's a premium over the 328i.

[Tuce]

It's possible that with the pricing they may be positioning themselves offer an "eco credit" -- like they did for the lifespan of the 335d -- which may cancel out any relative price difference between the 320d versus 328i.

[rconti]

Definitely interested in the diesels. I've been waiting for this for ages. I really want a 6cyl diesel, think 330 or 335d, with a 6MT, xDrive, in touring guise.

I'd be willing to make do with the 4cyl diesel, but not with a slushbox. No sale.

I'd probably even consider suffering with a sedan, if they had made the E90 335d with a stick. But again, boring-ass slushbox.

[rogerdiaz]

waste of car, just buy a 320i. i have not heard news of a 335d.