Vehicle Overview

Offered in 328 and 335 forms with different engines, the 3 Series is BMW's bread-and-butter model. This series has a history in the U.S. market that dates back to 1977.

Compared with the fourth-generation series, which debuted for 1999, the fifth-generation 335 sedan is larger in almost every dimension. Although its body is 30 pounds lighter than before, it's been stiffened. Front-to-rear weight distribution is close to 50/50.

A number of features are borrowed from the larger 5, 6 and 7 Series in BMW's lineup. Run-flat tires are mounted on all models, and Dynamic Cruise Control can gently apply the brakes to maintain the preset speed.

A redesigned 3 Series coupe debuts for 2007, and the 330 has morphed into the 335 with the installation of a new 300-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder. Two new colors — Crimson Red and Montego Blue — are available, and 3 Series models with the navigation system gain real-time traffic information.

Exterior

The 335 features a long hood and short front overhangs. The new coupe looks much like the sedan, but it has sleeker styling and a different front end. Xenon high-intensity-discharge adaptive headlights are standard. Alloy wheels hold standard 17-inch tires, and a Sport Package includes 18-inch rubber. Active Steering with Servotronic speed-sensitive assist is optional.

Interior

Sedans seat five, but there's only room for four in the coupe. The sedan's trunk volume is 12 cubic feet, and a folding rear seat is optional. The optional sport seats included with the Sport Package have power-adjustable backrest width.

A multifunction remote replaces the conventional key, and the engine fires via a start/stop button. Automatic climate control has a Heat-at-Rest feature to continue moving warm air around the cabin.

For the first time, BMW's iDrive is available in the 3 Series as part of the optional navigation system. Subwoofers beneath the front seats are included, and Sirius Satellite Radio is available. A power rear sunshade option includes manual rear side sunshades.

Under the Hood

BMW's new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder develops 300 hp and 300 pounds-feet of torque, which represents improvements of 45 hp and 80 pounds-feet of torque compared to the normally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six in last year's 330. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, and a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with Normal, Sport and Manual modes is optional.

Safety

Antilock brakes and an electronic stability system are standard. BMW's Head Protection System uses a side curtain airbag system to protect occupants in both the front and rear seats and seat-mounted side-impact airbags are installed up front.