C ar S cene I nvestigation: 2012 BMW 3-Series (335i Sedan)

Revised, revisited and completely new, the NEW 3-Series surpasses all expectations.

· Design & Engineering:

Ever since its debut six generations ago, the 3-Series has always been the bait used by BMW, to lure customers towards larger models such as the 5 and the 7. With the sixth generation, the new 3-Series sets higher standards for rivals from Audi & Mercedes. From the front, the new BM mirrors the new 5-Series. Compared to the previous 3-Series, the vehicle has clearly expanded. With revised headlamps, added silver front skirts and circular fog lamps, the new 3-Series is clearly more defined and avantgarde. With the vehicle tested being the top-of-the-range 335i (SPORT) trim, wider air intakes, larger arches and a slightly stiffer suspension come standard with the vehicle. From the side, the 3-Series resembles a slightly smaller 5-Series. Perhaps the vehicle’s selling point lies partly in the increased dimensions. At 4624mm in length and a visible 93mm longer than its predecessor, the BM seems to infringe on 5-Series territory, vis-à-vis overall dimensions. From the rear, the sedan features state of the art looks, and incorporates BMW’s signature LED’s. On the whole, the overall look provides a handsome, distinctive, and sporty look.

· Interior

To complement the sharp and clean looks on the outside, the 3-Series’ interior features a driver orientated layout. With most of the interior taken from the 1-Series, the 3-Series features the same good to the touch interior, with the proper use of brushed aluminium on the door handles, iDrive scroll, and around the air-conditioning vents. Just like the latter, two trims are available—Sport and Urban (Luxury). With Sport, splashes of colour lift the cabin’s ambience, with exterior stitching on the seats, steering wheel and on the door bolsters, the added use of colour provides the cabin with a more youthful feel, following suit with BMW’s mindset of looking towards the future. Unlike the 1-Series though, a new feature on the 335i is the power and torque gauges which can be viewed on the wide, high-resolution iDrive screen. Up front, both driver and passenger will be pampered by the 2-zone climate control, and the relatively easy to use, iDrive system (though I still find that the COMMAND system featured in Mercedes’ are easier and more intuitive to use). In addition, with the smooth E-gear featured in the 1, 5, 7, and X-models, sitting up front in the driver’s position becomes a wonderful place to be. At the rear, passengers are pampered with their own air-conditioning unit, as well as a marvelous sound system. Compared to its predecessor, both head and legroom have improved by leaps and bounds. Overall, considering its class of vehicle, the new 3-Series features an improved interior with superb build quality.

· Ride & Handlings

Upon driving the new 3, the immediate response from the wheels, as well as the spirited drive allows one to fully enjoy the vehicle. The key to the well thought out ride lies in its rear-wheel drive, drive train layout, new steering system, and sophisticated multi-link suspension. Under the bonnet, either a 2.5 or 3.0-liter twin-turbo charged V6. Having tested the 335i, familiar BMW technologies such as Valvetronic and double-VANOS variable camshaft timing systems worm their way into the bonnet as well. Start the motor, and all six cylinders rumble to life. At idle, the engine burbles sweetly, and when revved hard, produces a satisfying purr. Outright performance is also impressive, with the sedan devouring the century sprint in a mere 5.5 seconds—three tenths of a second quicker than its predecessor (*see article on 3-series coupe/convertible). Mated with BMW’s renowned 8-speed automatic gearbox (two more than its predecessor), the gearbox’s lower ratio provides sharper acceleration, and improved fuel economy.

· Verdict

A very good rival against Audi’s A4, and Mercedes’ C-Class. Great interior, sharp looks. Despite the vehicle’s high pricing, the new 3-Series sticks to BMW’s motto, truly being: The ultimate driving experience.