2009 BMW 3-Series: Tester's Comments
2009 BMW 3-Series ▼
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- MSRP: $33,600 - $66,500
- Invoice: $30,910 - $61,180
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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2009 BMW 3-Series. See if the 2009 BMW 3-Series is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2009 BMW 335d Sedan |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | 335i/335xi/335d |
| Arrival Date: | 05/28/2009 |
| Engine: | Turbodiesel dohc I6 |
| Bodystyle | 4-door sedan |
| Transmission: | 6-speed automatic |
| 4WD/AWD: | No |
| Base Price: | 43,900 |
| Price as Tested: | 55,445 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 7346 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 8183 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 837 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 25.442 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 32.9 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
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Major Options
Blue Water Metallic Paint, Premium Package (Universal Garage Door Opener, Digital Compass Mirror, Auto-Dimming Mirrors, Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror, Lumbar Support, BMW Assist), Sports Package (18-inch Wheels w/ Performance Tires, Sport Steering Wheel w/Paddles, Sport Seats, Sport Suspension, Shadowline Trim), Comfort Access System, Fold-Down Rear Seats, Heated Front Seats, Park Distance Control, iPod and USB Adapter, Navigation System, Satellite Radio w/ 1-Year Subscription
From the Back Seat
Damon Bell
Driving the BMW 335d makes me wonder why diesel cars aren't more prevalent in the U.S. As I see it, the disadvantages of a modern diesel passenger car for the average American consumer are: A higher initial sticker price (about $2300 more in the 335d's case), the prospect of added maintenance and repair costs for the diesel emissions-control system, and the need to find convenient diesel pumps for refueling. Other than that, what's the downside? The price of diesel fuel fluctuates, but right now (June 2009) it's significantly cheaper than gasoline--especially the premium-grade gas that a regular BMW 3-Series uses. The 335d's turbodiesel powertrain has delicious, torque-on-demand power (with no undue clatter or coarseness at idle), outstanding economy for the class, and I noticed no noxious diesel exhaust odors.
Don Sikora
Any BMW 3-Series is an enthusiast's delight that blends performance, handling, comfort, luxury, and practicality into a very attractive package. The diesel-powered 335d adds impressive fuel economy and to the equation with seemingly little sacrifice compared to its gas-fuel brothers. Acceleration is very strong, yet this car returned nearly 35 mpg in my test that was about two thirds highway driving.
Ed Piotrowski
If any compact car is worth $55,000, the BMW 335d would be it. Tremendous power and handling combine with thrifty efficiency to deliver one of the most enjoyable vehicles on the road. Now, BMW, how about pairing up this excellent diesel motor with a manual transmission?
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