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Christopher Jackson | 9/6/2007 | BMW
BMW has been in the business of building serious automotive athletes for so long that it's easy to forget that this is arguably the car that started it all for the German manufacturer. The 3-Series can trace its lineage back to the first sporty compact sedans to wear the propeller badge, and it's still the meat and potatoes of BMW's lineup.
All-new for 2006, the 3-Series' latest redesign hasn't diluted this car's skills. Quite the opposite. Taking a 325i or a 330i out to dance is the quickest way to learn what this "performance car" thing is all about. The 3-Series is a poised and controlled sedan whose performance will easily shame many so-called sports cars. With a completely new design, engine and suspension, the 3-Series remains at the top of the performance-sedan heap in the eyes of most experts.
The new design incorporates elements of the rest of the curvy-conservative BMW lineup, but the short hood and squat, muscular dimensions are easily recognizable as belonging to the 3-Series. The twin-kidney grille rides up front, flanked by quad headlamps--something that hasn't changed since the first 3-Series hit U.S. highways in 1984. It's longer and wider than before, but the dimensional increases are proportional. The passenger cabin is roomy thanks to a longer wheelbase, and a high-decked, stubby trunk brings up the rear. As in the past, 3-Series models are largely indistinguishable except for their badging; the 325i, 330i and all-wheel drive 325xi are visually identical. A station wagon version of the 325xi is also available.
Inside, the 3-Series offers up a wave-form dash and an instrument panel that's almost traditional by comparison. Stately wood touches and standard dual-zone climate control add an element of luxury that almost seems out of place. The revised interior is remarkably devoid of flat surfaces. There aren't many places to put things, either; this is a tool for driving, not distractions. This fact is communicated by the race car-style Start/Stop button next to the steering column. A thick and compact steering wheel is the driver's connection to this car's soul. A number of optional items have been borrowed from the 3-Series' larger siblings. BMW's iDrive system has been added to the available equipment list. Many drivers (present company included) hate iDrive with a passion, complaining that the computer-mouse style controls turn simple tasks such as changing the radio station into owner's-manual consulting ordeals. We can see the potential merits of the system, but it's still not as user-friendly as it could be. Thankfully, the 3-Series can be had without it. A navigation system, Dynamic cruise control and Sirius satellite radio are also offered.
The 3-Series will also appeal to Luddite drivers by virtue of its standard six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is also offered. Turning the gears in the 'box is a choice of 3.0 liter six-cylinder engines, producing 215 horsepower for the 325i and 255 in the 330i. Both engines are versions of BMW's latest wonderful inline six-cylinder, now lighter, more compact and equipped with BMW's Valvetronic variable valve-lift system. The power difference is achieved primarily with induction manifold changes and engine computer programming. Both the 325i and 330i offer copious, unhesitating power across the rev band. Acceleration is enthusiastic, and torque is available at the drop of a foot in any gear. In the all-wheel drive 325xi, BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system is borrowed from the X3 and X5 SUVs.
On the road, the 3-Series scores at the top of the curve as well. Thanks to the double-pivot front suspension that makes the new 5- and 6-Series so good, a new-design five-link rear suspension and a heaping helping of race-car DNA, a 3-Series sedan handles like an extension of your mind. Merely graceful at normal speeds, this car comes alive when you start pushing it through the turns. It's not afraid to be pushed, either; the 3-Series' handling excels at the levels where lesser cars begin to lose steam. BMW also offers the active, variable-assist steering system first seen on the 5-Series. Braking has been improved, though the 3-Series has never lacked for braking competence. BMW's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is available, and adds a cool function that compensates for brake fade. Run-flat tires are also standard equipment.
If all of this sounds a bit too fawning, fear not--BMW isn't lining our pockets to say nice things about their car. The 3-Series is just that good. The 325i starts at $31,595, which is actually reasonable for a BMW, but options and improved performance quickly drive the bottom line higher. The more powerful 330i hits the streets around $38,000.
Specifications:
All specs are for the 2006 BMW 325i.
Length: 178.2 in.
Width: 71.5 in.
Height: 55.9 in.
Wheelbase: 108.7 in.
Curb weight: 3351 lb
Cargo space: 12.0 cu.rt.
Base price: $31,595
Engine: 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder
Drivetrain: six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Horsepower: 215 @ 6250
Torque: 185 @ 2750
Fuel capacity: 15.9 gal.
Est. mileage: 20/30
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