BMW 3 Series raises bar in unexpected ways

The BMW 3 Series has been around for nearly 40 years with an edge in performance that competitors strive to match.

A few, such as the Audi A4, are closing in, so you might think the 3’s 2012 makeover would have widened the gap. But instead, the sixth-generation BMW takes a whack at a few pet peeves I’ve had about the car over the years.

I tested the rear-drive 328i sedan, which starts at $35,795 -- $270 more than 2011 models. Some enthusiasts might grouse over the 4-cylinder twin-turbo engine that replaces the inline 6, but consider the huge gain in fuel economy.

The EPA puts the 2012 manual’s mileage at 23 in the city, 34 on the highway, compared with 18/28 for the previous generation. Torque and horsepower rise from 200 and 230, respectively, to 255 and 240. And BMW pegs zero-to-60 time at 5.7 seconds, compared with 6.3 for the previous manual.

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You can choose between a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission, both with a stop-and-go function that helps save gas by shutting down at stoplights.

Four driving modes -- EcoPro, Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus (which shuts down traction control) -- give you a wide range in performance.

My tester was equipped with the manual gearbox, which is smooth and easy to shift, but I do have one complaint. Another change for 2012 is a moderate gain in size, which adds more room all around while shedding 88 pounds.

That’s super, but to drop the clutch effectively I had to keep the seat farther forward than I like. Plus, you can’t adjust the steering wheel high enough to let you bend your knee into a more relaxed position when using cruise control.

As for exterior design, BMW sharpened creases along the sides and hood for a more aggressive look. Inside, however, the 328i really shines. Fit and finish and material quality are excellent. The Sport, Modern and Luxury models each offer a slightly different appearance.

The iDrive control system, much maligned in the past, has been refined for easier use. And there are tons of other techy features, though they quickly spiral the price past the $40,000 mark.

Heads-up display, parallel-park assist, surround/top view screen, blind-spot monitor, lane departure warning system, navigation with real-time traffic data, variable sports steering, ConnectedDrive Internet link and a foot-activated trunk opening system are among the options. Enthusiasts also may be swayed by the M sports and adaptive packages.

The 3 Series’ former gas-guzzling ways, along with its skimpy backseat, were a tradeoff to the Bimmer’s handling prowess in the past -- but no more.

Only the 328i and 335i sedans (starting at $43,295) received the makeover for 2012. Still to come are the coupe, wagon and convertible. Also new will be an even more fuel-efficient ActiveHybrid version of the 3.

Source: Biz Journal