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2006 BMW 3-Series coupe and convertible Full Review
Date Published: 3/27/08
2006 BMW 3-Series coupe and convertible Review
While 3-Series sedans and wagons are redesigned for 2006, coupes and convertibles continue with a design introduced for 1999. These models have rear-wheel drive and inline 6-cyl engines. The 325 versions have a 184-hp 2.5-liter, 330 models a 225-hp 3.0, M3 editions a 333-hp 3.2. The 325s offer a 5-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic; 330s offer a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. M3s offer a 6-speed manual or BMW's 6-speed SMT. The sequential manual transmission is essentially a manual transmission without a clutch pedal. Gear changes are via a floorshifter or steering wheel paddles; it can also be set to shift like an automatic. ABS and traction/antiskid control are standard. So are front torso side airbags; rear side airbags are optional. Coupes also have front head-protecting tubular side airbags. Convertibles have a power fabric top with heated glass rear window. Bi-xenon headlights are optional; they are steering-linked on 325 and 330 models. Run-flat tires are optional for 330s. An available Performance Package for 330s adds 10 hp, 18-inch wheels, unique trim, and sport-tuned suspension and exhaust.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buy is Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz CLK.
News
As expected, BMW updates the 3-Series coupe to the current "E90" sedan/wagon design. It arrives this fall in two 6-cyl models: a 230-hp 328i and a new twin-turbo 335i with 300 hp. Both seat four and offer BMW's all-wheel xDrive as a first-time option. BMW's computer-managed Active Steering is also available. Standard equipment includes steering-linked headlamps and 17-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tires. Claimed 0-60 mph acceleration is 6.2 sec for the 328Ci, 5.3 for the turbocharged 335Ci. Expected sometime in 2007 are redesigned "E92" convertibles with the same two engines and a first-ever power-retractable hard top instead of a cloth roof. Like the coupes, the new convertibles have unique outer sheetmetal, but maintain a 3-Series family look. A new high-performance M3 coupe and convertible should surface for 2008. They switch from 6-cyl power to a new 4.0-liter V8 with a rumored 400 hp.

BMW will reportedly reinstate an M3 sedan, perhaps for 2007, more likely for '08. Mainstream sedans and wagons should offer the new 230- and 300-hp engines sometime soon.

Meantime, BMW is readying a 3-Series-based 5-seat crossover wagon known to insiders as V3. It's expected in Europe by 2009 and could come stateside if BMW sees fit.

Finally, BMW's entry-level 1-Series compact car is expected to launch in America during 2007. Available in Europe since late 2004, the baby Bimmer uses many 3-Series underskin components in a smaller 4-dr hatchback package. BMW is reportedly looking to add 2-dr hatch, coupe, and convertible versions, plus a 4-dr sedan and wagon. Sources believe the coupe and/or sedan would come here first, with other body styles possible later on. The likely engine is a 3.0-liter 6-cyl with some 215 hp.
2006 BMW 3-Series coupe and convertible Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration Cargo room (convertible)
Steering/handling Rear-seat entry/exit (coupe, convertible)
Build quality
Exterior finish
Available AWD
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
5 7 8 8 8.2

Satisfying to spectacular as you ascend model lines. Each engine a paragon of smoothness, and all best enjoyed with conventional manual transmission. SMT feels ill-mannered in all but racetracklike driving. With automatic, test 325 convertible did 8.1 sec 0-60 mph. With manual, test 330 coupe did 6.8 sec, M3 convertible 5.4. BMW pegs 330s at 7 sec 0-60 with automatic, 6.4 with manual.
Fuel Economy

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
6 5 4 5 4.2

Test 325 convertible with automatic transmission averaged 16.2-22.0 mpg, depending on city/highway mix. In M3 tests, coupe with SMT averaged 17.7 mpg, convertible with conventional manual 18.7. All models require premium-grade fuel.
Ride Quality

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
6 7 4 4 4.3

Firmly composed. Comfort deteriorates somewhat with tires larger than 17s. Stiffer-yet settings, high-speed, low-profile tires make M3s thumpy, though not brutal.
Steering/Handling/Braking

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
8 8 9 9 8.5

The class benchmark for overall control, steering feel, though margin is slim over best rivals. Standard antiskid system adds to safety, but mediocre traction in snow with base tires, poor grip on wet roads with sport treads. All stop with swift, stable assurance.
Quietness

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
5 6 4 3 4.1

Convertibles suffer the most wind rush, M3s emit pronounced tire roar and a loud, raspy engine note. Others pretty quiet overall, and all are mechanically refined.
Controls

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
7 7 7 7 6.3

Steering-wheel audio, cruise controls complement well-arranged dashboard, but navigation system a chore to program. Making leather optional for most models is penny pinching by BMW.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
6 6 6 6 5.7

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, tight head room for the very tall. Visibility fine except top-up in convertibles.
Room/Comfort (rear)

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
2 2 2 2 .7

Poor knee, foot space with a front seat more than halfway back. Taxing entry/exit.
Cargo Room

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
2 3 3 2 2

Disappointing. Trunks small for class. Interior needs more small-item storage.
Value within Class

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
6 7 2 4 4.5

BMW's new-generation 2006 3-Series sedans and wagons are premium compact car Best Buys. These coupes and convertibles, which are based on a 1999-vintage design, remain worthy of consideration in the premium sporty/performance class. They admittedly are lame-duck designs. And some competitors offer more standard features and more power for less money. But no comparable rival is more refined or dynamically capable overall.
Total Score

325Ci conv, w/Sport Pkg., auto. 330Ci cpe, auto. M3 cpe, SMT M3 conv, man. Class Average
53 58 49 50 48.5
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score
37
Average Score
48
High Score
58
2006 BMW 3-Series coupe and convertible Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 07/11/2006
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
325Ci 2-door coupe $32,300 $29,575 $695
325Ci 2-door convertible $39,600 $36,215 $695
330Ci 2-door coupe $37,600 $34,395 $695
330Ci 2-door convertible $44,900 $41,040 $695
M3 2-door coupe $48,900 $44,680 $695
M3 2-door convertible $56,600 $51,685 $695
Price note: M3 adds $1000 Gas-Guzzler Tax. M3 convertible w/sequential transmission adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
325Ci coupe
Powertrain
2.5-liter 6-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, front side head-protecting airbags, antiskid system, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunklid release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/automatic climate control, interior air filter, power steering, tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, vinyl upholstery, height-adjustable front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers, heated washer nozzles, rear defogger, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, sport suspension, 205/55HR16 tires, alloy wheels.
325Ci convertible adds to 325Ci coupe:
Safety
Automatic roll bar.
Comfort and Convenience Features
10-way power front seats, passenger-side mirror tilt-down back-up aid, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), power convertible top.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: front side head-protecting airbags, split folding rear seat, power sunroof, sport suspension.
330Ci coupe adds to 325Ci coupe:
Powertrain
3.0-liter 225-horsepower 6-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
8-way power front seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), passenger-side mirror tilt-down back-up aid, Harman/Kardon sound system.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
205/50R17 tires.
330Ci convertible adds to 330i sedan/330xi sedan/330Ci coupe:
Safety
Automatic roll bar.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, power convertible top.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: front side head-protecting airbags, split folding rear seat, power sunroof, sport suspension.
M3 coupe adds to 330i sedan/330xi sedan/330Ci coupe
Powertrain
3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine, limited-slip differential.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, heated door locks, visor mirrors.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: 8-way power front seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), passenger-side mirror tilt-down back-up aid, wood interior trim, power sunroof, Harman/Kardon sound system, illuminated visor mirrors, full-size spare tire.
Rear spoiler, M sport suspension, 225/45R18 front tires, 255/40R18 rear tires, chrome alloy wheels.
M3 convertible adds to M3 Coupe:
Safety
Automatic roll bar.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power front seats w/thigh-support adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), BMW Assist system, wireless cell phone link, passenger-side mirror tilt-down back-up aid, power convertible top.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: front side head-protecting airbags, rear spoiler.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Premium Pkg.
M3 coupe
$2,700
$2,455
Power sunroof, 8-way power front seats w/power lumbar adjustment and seatback-width adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), passenger-side mirror tilt-down back-up aid, BMW Assist system, wireless cell phone link.
Sport Pkg.
330 coupe
$600
$541
330 convertible
$800
$730
8-way power front sport seats w/adjustable thigh support, sport suspension (330Ci convertible), 225/45R17 front tires, 245/40R17 rear tires, special alloy wheels.
Performance Pkg.
330 coupe
$3,900
$3,550
330 convertible
$3,600
$3,275
3.0-liter 235-horsepower 6-cylinder engine, alcantara/cloth upholstery (330Ci coupe), sport seats w/adjustable thigh support, sport steering wheel, aluminum interior trim, unique interior and exterior trim, performance suspension, 225/40R18 front tires, 255/35R18 rear tires, special alloy wheels.
Competition Pkg.
M3 coupe
$4,000
$3,640
Direct steering ratio, cross-drilled compound brakes, M-track mode for antiskid system, alcantara steering wheel and handbrake, aluminum interior trim, 225/40R19 front tires, 255/35R19 rear tires.
Cold Weather Pkg.
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci convertible, 330Ci coupe, M3 convertible, M3 coupe
$750
$685
Heated front seats, ski sack, headlight washers.
Powertrain
5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
325, 330
$1,275
$1,210
6-speed sequential manual transmission
M3
$2,400
$2,185
Includes rear-obstacle-detection system.
Safety
Rear side airbags
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci convertible, 330Ci coupe, M3 convertible, M3 coupe
$385
$350
Rear-obstacle-detection system
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci convertible, 330Ci coupe, M3 convertible, M3 coupe
$350
$320
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci convertible, 330Ci coupe, M3 convertible, M3 coupe
$1,800
$1,640
BMW Assist system
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci convertible, 330Ci coupe, M3 coupe
$750
$685
Includes one year service, wireless cell phone link. Std. M3 convertible.
Aluminum interior trim
325, 330
$0
$0
Leather upholstery
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci coupe
$1,450
$1,320
Std. 330Ci convertible, M3.
Alcantara/cloth upholstery
330 convertible
$0
$0
Requires Performance Pkg.
Alcantara/leather interior trim
M3
$0
$0
Power front seats
325 coupe, M3 coupe
$995
$905
Includes driver-seat and mirror memory, passenger-side-mirror tilt-down back-up aid.
4-way lumbar support
M3 coupe
$500
$455
M3 convertible
$400
$365
Coupe includes adjustable seatback width. Coupe requires Premium Pkg. or power front seats.
Heated front seats
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci convertible, 330Ci coupe, M3 convertible, M3 coupe
$500
$455
Harman/Kardon sound system
325, M3
$675
$615
Power sunroof
M3 coupe
$1,050
$955
Power rear sunshade
coupe
$400
$365
Includes manual rear side sunshades.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Removable hardtop
convertible
$2,295
$2,090
Rear spoiler delete
M3 coupe
$0
$0
Bi-xenon headlights
M3
$700
$635
Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights
325, 330
$800
$730
Special paint
325Ci convertible, 325Ci coupe, 330Ci convertible, 330Ci coupe, M3 convertible, M3 coupe
$475
$430
205/50VR17 run-flat tires
330
$300
$275
NA w/Performance Pkg., Sport Pkg.
Double-spoke alloy wheels
M3
$1,750
$1,595
Includes 225/40R19 front tires, 255/35R19 rear tires.
2006 BMW 3-Series coupe and convertible Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification BMW 3-Series 2-door coupe BMW 3-Series 2-door convertible
Wheelbase, in. 107.3 107.3
Overall Length, in. 176.7 176.7
Overall Width, in. 68.5 68.5
Overall Height, in. 53.9 54.0
Curb Weight, lbs. 3197 3560
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 9.5 7.7
Standard Payload, lbs. -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 16.6 16.6
Seating Capacity 5 4
Front Head Room, in. 37.5 38.0
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.7 41.7
Rear Head Room, in. 36.5 36.4
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 33.2 32.0
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc I6 dohc I6 dohc I6
Size, liters/cu. in. 2.5 /152 3.0 /182 3.2 /192
Horsepower @ rpm. 184 @ 6000 225 @ 5900 333 @ 7900
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 175 @ 3500 214 @ 3500 262 @ 4900
Availability Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
     
5-speed manual 20/29 --/-- --/--
6-speed manual --/-- 20/30 16/24
5-speed automatic 19/27 18/26 --/--
6-speed automated manual --/-- --/-- 16/23
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test BMW 3-Series 2-door coupe BMW 3-Series 2-door convertible
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 4/50,000 --
Corrosion 12/unlimited --
Free roadside assistance 4/50,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance 4/50,000 --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: Germany
Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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