In BMW speak, the new “E90″ sedan and wagon debuted in 2006 with a complete makeover, and the coupe followed suit in 2007. A new hardtop convertible arrived midway through 2007. The newest 3 Series vehicles take the numerical stakes higher as well, with sedans and coupes now badged as either the twin-turbo-equipped 335i with 300 horsepower, or the 328i and 328xi (“xi” denotes all-wheel drive) sedans, coupes and wagons with 230 horsepower. Both engines, in BMW tradition, are turbine smooth inline-6s and both are 3.0 liters in size. The convertible offers the same engine choices, but not the all-wheel drive.
Most BMW 3 Series models come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard equipment, with a six-speed automatic optional. Newer versions of the automatic offer paddle shifters for manual-style gearchanges.
Inside 328i, 328xi and 335i models, drivers will find a restrained show of luxury, with an emphasis on driver comfort and involvement — supportive seats underneath and a clean, clear analog gauge cluster dead ahead. Materials and build quality are exceptional in keeping with its price point; even the standard leatherette upholstery looks and feels better than one might expect. In the new convertible, its optional leather upholstery features the industry’s first sun reflective pigments that lower the temperature of dark-colored leather surfaces by up to 36 degrees Fahrenheit. Even light-colored leather can be lowered by 15 degrees. For those who avoid convertibles because of the dreaded SBS or Sweaty Butt Syndrome, your open-top chariot has arrived.
The BMW 3 Series never fails to impress us as a top choice in its segment. In addition to its other outstanding qualities, Edmunds editors report that “the 3 Series’ world-class suspension, steering and brakes provide hours of entertainment on twisty two-lane highways. Beyond simply feeling rock solid when hustled around turns, this car communicates with the driver in a manner that inspires confidence no matter what kind of driving you’re doing. And you don’t have to give up a comfortable ride to get this kind of athleticism.”
If you can ante up the considerable bottom line, the 3 Series is still the standard-bearer of the compact luxury-sport class — especially when it comes to perfectly sorted and balanced vehicle dynamics, abundant and smooth power, a wide range of configurations to suit any style and available all-wheel drive for those who can’t afford to let a little inclement weather stand between them and their well-appointed journeys.
