2010 BMW 335i
T his 3-liter still emits the evocative BMW howl on the way to its 7000 redline; the difference is that you no longer need to wring the bejeezus out of it to get any meaningful urge. Instead, it feels as if they've wedged a 5-liter V8 under the hood.
Revised software and innards means lightning fast upshifts and perfect, rev-matched downshifts every time. And virtually no performance penalty; both trannies allowing the 3 to complete the benchmark 0-60 dash in about 5 seconds flat. It may as well be an M3, for thousands less. Click the ARTICLE tab above for more details.
PHOTOS and VIDEO at right.
SPECS:
2010 BMW 335i
Base Price: $37,297
Horsepower: 300@ 5800
Torque: 300@ 1400
0-60: 5.0
By Isaac Bouchard. P erennial champ, the BMW 3-series, does occasionally lose a match. In 2006 Lexus sent the 307hp IS350 into the ring, and many—including myself—judged it a better blend of attributes for the enthusiast customer; but at best for Lexus, the result might be described as a T.K.O. The Bavarian’s counterpunch was swift and sure: strap two small, low-pressure turbos onto the classic inline-six, and add direct fuel injection for a cooler intake charge and higher compression ratio. The result? A round 300hp—up only 45—but more importantly, a great plains-size torque plateau that maintains 300lbs-ft from 1300rpm all the way to 5000. This 3-liter still emits the evocative BMW howl on the way to its 70000 redline; the difference is that you no longer need to wring the bejeezus out of it to get any meaningful urge. Instead, it feels as if they’ve wedged a 5-liter V8 under the hood. Massive off the line grunt (enough to break the tires loose from a rolling start), allow you to drive in a leisurely or aggressive manner and always have more than sufficient power waiting in reserve. This magnificent motor is married to one of two transmissions: the classic 6-speed manual, or a revised automatic. It offers the same number of speeds as the three-pedal car, two shift modes, and paddleshifts for those inclined to Formula 1 fantasies. Revised software and innards means lightning fast upshifts and perfect, rev-matched downshifts every time.
And virtually no performance penalty; both trannies allowing the 3 to complete the benchmark 0-60 dash in about 5 seconds flat. Talks with BMW engineers lead one to surmise that the 335i was artificially restricted in output so as not to upstage the last of the six-cylinder M3s, and they hint that the turbo does indeed pump out over 330hp. Besides that magical engine, it’s more of the usual BMW masterclass: a terrific ride-handling compromise (undermined only by the low-speed lumpiness endemic to runflat tires), that combines excellent body control, a near-neutral cornering stance, and compliant and cosseting ride at any speed over thirty. Add to that beautifully fluid steering (assuming you avoid the videogame-like ‘Active’ option), and progressive, feelsome brakes, and you end up with the most complete dynamic package in the class. The interior is clean and well-wrought, and if you avoid navigation, unafflicted by iDrive. It also manages to offer room for four despite its svelte shell. A welcome change is that this is the first 21st Century BMW without controversial styling. Replacing the jumble of conflicting, ‘flame-surfaced’ panels is a cohesive, clean silhouette, thankfully unadorned by superfluous gewgaws. And just a vestigial Bangle-butt trunk. The only caveat is that the coupe (like all modern BMWs) looks heavy-hipped and anemic in stance without the largest wheel/tire combo.
Save hundreds on your auto insurance. It's easy. It's free. And there's no obligation. Get a free quote now!
Get a Free Quote.
The best deals in performance auto parts. Plus save money on replacements parts and auto body parts.
FREE SHIPPING on orders over $99
We're loaded with parts and accessories. Save up to 40% off List price. Free shipping with no minimum purchase (restrictions apply). See site for details!
Up to 40% Off List
Huge selection of quality, collectible diecast models. Classic cars. Muscle cars. Racing. Old brands. Find your favorites! Great deals. Wholesale diecast car models. Shop now!
Classics. Muscle. Racing & More. Rare Models!
Buy one night, get one night FREE at Holiday Inn with your Enterprise car rental. Great Cars. Low Rates. Free Pick-up.
We'll Pick You Up! Low Rates
Shop by your vehicle's make, model and year to find exactly the right parts and accessories. Plus, we're making a commitment to you with our industry-leading 1-year guarantee on more than 6 million parts and accessories. Shop now!
New, improved, better than ever website!
Car Audio Systems. GPS Navigation. Mobile Video Systems. Radar Detectors. Handy online tool to learn "What Fits Your Vehicle." All Major Brands. Shop Now!
Free shipping on thousands of electronics!