The BMW 3 Series has long been celebrated for its blend of sporty performance and luxury. For those considering the Bmw 3 Series 330i 2017, safety is undoubtedly a key factor. This article delves into the crash test performance of the 2017 BMW 330i, specifically models built after November 2016, to provide a comprehensive understanding of its safety ratings.
The BMW 3 Series sedan underwent a redesign in 2012. While initial models faced challenges in small overlap frontal crash tests, BMW implemented a front suspension change for the 2016 model year to better manage wheel movement. However, these initial changes were not sufficient to achieve optimal performance in this demanding test scenario.
Recognizing the need for further improvement, BMW made crucial modifications starting with the 2017 models produced after November 2016. These enhancements included further adjustments to the suspension and modifications to the adjoining structure. The result was a significant improvement in wheel movement control and, consequently, a greatly enhanced performance in the small overlap frontal crash test. (Vehicle manufacturing date information can be found on the certification label typically located on the driver’s side door or the adjacent B-pillar.)
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rigorously evaluates vehicle safety, and the 2017 BMW 330i, post-November 2016 models, earned impressive ratings. The table below summarizes the evaluation criteria and ratings:
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Frontal Test | G |
| Structure and safety cage | G |
| Driver injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Chest | G |
| Hip/thigh | G |
| Lower leg/foot | A |
| Driver restraints and dummy kinematics | G |
Rating Key: G=Good, A=Acceptable, M=Marginal, P=Poor
This image captures the 2017 BMW 330i undergoing the small overlap frontal crash test, showcasing the controlled impact.
The “Good” rating in the small overlap frontal test, along with “Good” ratings across key driver injury measures, indicates a high level of occupant protection. Specifically, the structure and safety cage of the bmw 3 series 330i 2017 held up well during the test, maintaining the driver’s survival space.
This image demonstrates the dummy’s position after the crash test, indicating that the driver’s survival space was effectively maintained by the vehicle’s structure.
Furthermore, the frontal and side curtain airbags in the bmw 3 series 330i 2017 performed effectively, working in tandem to protect the head from contacting жесткие structures or external objects during the crash.
The effectiveness of the airbags is highlighted in this image, showing how they prevent head injuries by keeping it away from hard structures.
While most driver injury measures received “Good” ratings, the lower leg/foot protection was rated as “Acceptable.” Technical measurements reveal that forces on the right lower leg were slightly elevated, indicating a moderate risk of injury in this area.
This image focuses on the lower leg area post-crash, where measurements indicated a slightly higher risk of injury compared to other body regions.
Detailed technical measurements from the crash test provide further insights into the bmw 3 series 330i 2017‘s performance:
Technical Measurements for Occupant Compartment Intrusion (Driver Side)
| Evaluation criteria | Measurement (cm) |
|---|---|
| Lower hinge pillar max | 5 |
| Footrest | 16 |
| Left toepan | 11 |
| Brake pedal | 12 |
| Rocker panel lateral average | 1 |
| Steering column | 0 |
| Upper hinge pillar max | 3 |
| Upper dash | 3 |
| Lower instrument panel | 3 |
These measurements indicate the extent of intrusion into the occupant compartment, with lower numbers signifying better structural integrity.
Driver Injury Measures – Technical Data
| Evaluation criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Head HIC-15 | 549 |
| Peak gs at hard contact | no contact |
| Neck Tension (kN) | 1.4 |
| Neck Extension bending moment (Nm) | 22 |
| Maximum Nij | 0.42 |
| Chest maximum compression (mm) | 19 |
| Femur Left (kN) | 3.4 |
| Femur Right (kN) | 3.4 |
| Knee displacement Left (mm) | 4 |
| Knee displacement Right (mm) | 4 |
| Knee-thigh-hip injury risk Left (%) | 1 |
| Knee-thigh-hip injury risk Right (%) | 1 |
| Maximum tibia index Left | 0.65 |
| Maximum tibia index Right | 0.82 |
| Tibia axial force Left (kN) | 3.4 |
| Tibia axial force Right (kN) | 4.2 |
| Foot acceleration Left (g) | 140 |
| Foot acceleration Right (g) | 68 |
These detailed measurements provide engineers and safety experts with precise data on potential injury risks to different body regions.
In conclusion, the bmw 3 series 330i 2017 models built after November 2016 demonstrate a significant improvement in small overlap frontal crash safety. The “Good” overall rating and robust structural performance provide reassurance for those prioritizing safety in their vehicle choice. While the lower leg/foot area showed a slightly higher risk, the vehicle generally offers excellent occupant protection in this challenging crash scenario.
