In short, the 2012 BMW 328i uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine called the N20B20, delivering about 240 horsepower.
For context, the 2012 model year marked BMW’s shift in the 3 Series toward downsized turbocharged powertrains. The 328i in the United States and many other markets relied on this 2.0-liter four-cylinder as the baseline turbocharged option, pairing efficiency with the brand’s characteristic on-road performance. The following details outline the engine’s core specs, how it delivers performance, and regional variations you might encounter.
Core engine specifications
Details about size, architecture, turbocharging, and output.
- Engine code: N20B20
- Displacement: 2.0 liters
- Configuration: Turbocharged inline-4
- Turbocharger: Twin-scroll turbocharger
- Fuel delivery: Direct injection
- Power: 240 horsepower
- Torque: 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) from approximately 1,250 to 4,800 rpm
- Typical drivetrain pairing: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic (availability varies by market)
The N20B20’s combination of turbocharging and direct injection aimed to balance brisk acceleration with improved real-world fuel economy compared with older naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines.
Transmission and performance context
How the engine interacts with the car’s transmissions and what drivers could expect in everyday use.
- 6-speed manual transmission available in some markets
- 8-speed automatic transmission common across many configurations
Regardless of transmission, the engine’s torque curve provides strong low- to mid-range pull, contributing to quick mid-range acceleration and a smooth, refined highway cruise.
Market variations and notes
Regions may tune the engine slightly for emissions and fuel quality; horsepower and torque figures can vary by market, but the core specification remains the N20B20 2.0L turbo four.
Summary
The 2012 BMW 328i is powered by the N20B20 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, delivering around 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, typically paired with an 8-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual depending on the market. This engine signaled BMW’s move toward downsized turbo power in the 3 Series.