2009 BMW 3-Series: Road Test

ACCELERATION

With manual transmission, the rear-drive 328i has smooth, sufficient power for around-town driving and highway passing. The 335i has abundant power at any speed with minimal turbo lag; a test coupe with automatic transmission did 4.7 seconds 0-60 mph. The 335d has tremendous power at any speed. Like the 335i, the diesel has almost no turbo lag. The M3 is a rocket that gives up only a bit of midrange torque to other V8 sports cars. With any engine, the manual transmission feels fairly notchy and mechanical, which can make smooth driving tricky at times. The 6-speed automatic changes gears smoothly, but downshifts can lag behind throttle inputs. The M3's available 7-speed automatic transmission shifts more smoothly when gears are selected manually with the steering-wheel paddles. No all-wheel drive models, wagons, or 328s with automatic transmission have been made available for testing.

RIDE QUALITY

Suspensions favor taut composure over cushioned isolation. Base suspension is compliant, though sharp bumps can pound through. Firmer sport suspension (standard on coupes) and low-profile 17-inch tires (standard on coupes, convertibles, and 335s) can trigger abrupt vertical and side-to-side motions on uneven pavement. Top up or down, the convertible has an impressively rigid body structure with virtually no cowl shake. M3's race-bred suspension is stiffer still, and combined with its standard 18- or optional 19-inch tires, delivers a firm ride that somehow manages to avoid being harsh over most surfaces.

QUIETNESS

Engines sing under acceleration and cruise quietly, even the diesel. Wind rush is evident at highway speeds. Tire noise is subdued with base suspension but elevated with sport suspension and on M3, though it never intrudes on conversation. Top up, convertible offers near-coupe-like isolation. Top down, wind buffeting is minor; normal conversation is possible even at highway speeds.

DETAILS

Most cabin materials have a sturdy, soft-touch feel. The standard vinyl trim is attractive, but the fact that it is vinyl seems like a cheapskate move at this car's price level. The available leather trim is notably richer. The M3's interior decor seems a bit bland for its high-performance pretensions. Bodies exhibit ingot-solid construction; convertible quivered a bit with the top down, but less so than in most competitors. Convertible top powers up or down in about 23 seconds with the press of a button.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Sedans have little more space than a typical compact car. Headroom, legroom, and foot space are all cramped. The front seats slide fore and aft in coupe and convertible. Entry and exit on all 3-Series models require some twisting.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

With dynamic capabilities second to none, the 3-Series remains our benchmark for premium compacts. A full complement of body styles and available all-wheel drive add to the appeal. Base prices are reasonable for this class, though BMW charges extra for popular amenities many competitors include as standard equipment. The 335d diesel model is even more pricey, but it offers outstanding performance and fuel efficiency. Feature for feature it may end up costing more than some rivals, but the 3-Series is a Best Buy for its resolute focus on balanced performance.