2007 BMW 3-Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A retractable hardtop convertible and an additional all-wheel drive sedan model are midseason additions to BMW's 3-Series lineup. BMW redesigned the coupe version of its best-selling car for 2007 to bring it in line with the sedan and wagon, which were redesigned for 2006. The coupes have their own styling and are available for the first time with all-wheel drive. Compared to the 1999-2006 versions, they are 3.6 inches longer, 1.7 inches wider, and more than 200 lb heavier. The 3-Series sedan and coupe come as 328i, all-wheel-drive 328xi, and 335i models. An AWD 335xi sedan arrives as a midseason addition, as does a 2-door convertible with a power-retracting hardtop in 328i or 335i form. Wagons are offered as the 328i or 328xi. No high-performance M3 models are offered for 2007.

All '07s have a 3.0-liter inline 6-cyl engine. The 328i and 328xi have 230 hp and replace 215-hp 325i models. The 335i and 335xi are turbocharged and have 300 hp; they replace 255-hp 330i models. All have a standard 6-speed manual transmission or optional 6-speed automatic. ABS, traction/antiskid control, and front side airbags are standard. Head-protecting tubular side airbags that cover both seating rows are standard on all but convertibles. Standard on convertibles are rollover bars designed to deploy from the rear headrests if sensors detect an impending tip. All models have run-flat tires, and all except convertibles have a sunroof. Steering-linked xenon headlights are standard on coupes, convertibles, and 335i sedans, optional otherwise. On all models, seats with extra side bolstering are available in a Sport Package. Firmer suspension is standard on rear-drive coupes, optional in a Sport Package for convertibles and 335i sedans. All rear-drive models are offered with BMW's Active Steering that quickens steering response at low speeds. BMW's iDrive is included with an available navigation system and uses a console knob to control entertainment, navigation, communication, and other functions. Among other options: leather upholstery, heated front seats, rear obstacle detection, adaptive cruise control, and BMW Assist service with a wireless cell phone link.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX and Audi A3.

New or significantly redesigned is the BMW 3-Series.