BMW Faqs

The sixth-generation 3 Series is a little bit larger, heavier and faster than the previous 3, which was first introduced as a sedan in 1999, followed by the coupes, the convertible and the wagon in 2000. The 2006 BMW 3 Series has a much more bold look, revised suspension and braking, more power and more interior space.

BMW’s infamous iDrive is now available in the 3 Series, but is thankfully optional (packaged with a navigation system), and the rest of the interior is a model of precision design. For now, only the sedan and wagon benefit from the complete makeover.

The 2006 3 Series coupe and convertible remain unchanged but will likely be merged into a single convertible model with a retractable hardtop design for the 2008 model year. The new 3 Series sedan is again badged as a 325 or 330, although both now use a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder. The 325 is rated at 215 hp, while the 330’s engine comes with a three-stage induction system and different exhaust and powertrain software that result in 255 hp.

The optional Active Steering system features a variable ratio that turns the front wheels to a greater degree relative to steering wheel movement at low speeds (such as parking lots and tight corners), and even countersteers if the stability control system senses a slide. BMW’s Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), a sophisticated transmission that combines the control of a manual gearbox with the ease of an automatic, is available on the 330i.

The 3 Series is BMW’s top seller in the U.S., and for good reason endowed with world-class suspension, steering and brake components, these cars have an ability to communicate with their drivers that is unmatched in the entry-level luxury class and, indeed, unmatched by most cars at any price. Lest you think this adroit handling comes at the expense of ride quality, rest assured that BMW still realizes the importance of comfortable cruising.

Whether you choose the standard suspension or the optional sport-tuned setup, you’ll be able to go about your weekday routine without feeling that you’ve sacrificed ride comfort for the sake of weekend thrills. Overall, the BMW 3 Series cars tend to cost more than the competition, but if you go easy on the options, we think you’ll find that the price of admission is well worth it.