2005 BMW 3-Series: Road Test
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2005 BMW 3-Series ▼
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- MSRP: $31,200 -$55,800
- Invoice: $28,570 -$50,960
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Our road test for the 2005 BMW 3-Series includes a full evaluation of the 2005 BMW 3-Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 BMW 3-Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 BMW 3-Series help you decide if a 2005 BMW 3-Series is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 6 |
Generally lively, especially with manual transmission. BMW pegs rear-drive 330s at 7.0 sec 0-60 mph with automatic, 6.4 with conventional manual. In our tests, an automatic 325i did 8.1 sec 0-60, a manual 330xi did 6.8 sec, and an M3 did 5.4 sec with conventional 6-speed manual. SMT delivers lightning-quick high-rpm shifts, but does not shift smoothly in less-aggressive driving.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Test 325Ci convertible with automatic transmission averaged 16.2-22.04 mpg, depending on city/highway mix. Automatic 325xi wagon averaged 27 mpg in almost all-highway driving. Test M3 averaged 18.7; 19.0 with SMT. All models require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 6 |
Firm and always composed. Comfort deteriorates somewhat with available 17-inch tires. Stiffer-yet settings and high-speed low-profile tires make M3s thumpy, though not brutal.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7.3 |
The class benchmark for overall control and steering feel, though margin is slim over the best rivals. Standard antiskid system and available AWD add to safety, but rear-drive models have mediocre traction in snow with base tires and lack grip on wet roads with sport treads. All stop with swift, stable assurance.
QUIETNESS
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 3 | 6 |
Convertibles suffer the most wind rush, M3s emit pronounced tire roar and a loud, raspy engine note. Others are pretty quiet overall, and all are mechanically refined.
CONTROLS
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Steering-wheel audio and cruise controls complement well-arranged dashboard, but navigation system a chore to program. Making leather optional for most models is penny pinching by BMW at these prices.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Upright cabin seems narrow, but isn't cramped. Leg room plentiful. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel helps driver comfort, but tester complaints included subpar lumbar support and tight head room for the very tall. Visibility fine except top-up in convertibles. Have not yet tested steering-linked headlamps.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3.6 |
Knee and foot space poor in wagons with a front seat more than halfway back. Much less room and trickier entry/exit in 2-dr models.
CARGO ROOM
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 4 |
Disappointing in coupes and convertibles. Wagon capacity small for class.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 4 | 6 |
The 2006 3-Series sedans are Best Buys, while the carried-over coupes, convertibles, and wagons earn Recommended status. Some competitors offer more standard features and more power for less money, but none are more refined or dynamically capable overall. M3's high initial prices are somewhat offset by resale values, which are strong for all 3-Series models.
Total Score
| 325xi wgn, auto. | 325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. | 330Ci cpe, auto. | M3 conv, SMT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | 54 | 56 | 50 | 57.4 |
Total Score: 55
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