2006 BMW 330i

The idea of an all-new BMW 3-series sedan for 2006 ignited excitement in the hearts of many driving enthusiasts, as well as a little fear. Because BMW has endured criticism for its sedan styling in recent years, fans of the popular 3-Series had to wonder if the 3 would be the next unfortunate victim. While I can only speak for this beholder's eye, my sensibilities tell me it escaped. Following the 5-series' subdued lead, the new 3 is beautiful. It comes across as soft, elegant and even familiar – words rarely applied to the flagship 7-series' radical architecture that started this evolution. The 3's handsome exterior is good news not only for devotees, but also for those of us weary of the design controversy and eager to move on to other elements of this redesigned, re-engineered car. Like how it runs.

The good news
The 3-series sedan's stellar attributes have for so long dominated its class worldwide, it is thrilling to see what improvements can be made. Making the best better must be intriguing and challenging work.

Adding more power is usually the part of that formula, as it is here. The 330i's new lightweight 3.0-liter inline six with variable valve timing and lift produces 255 horses, an increase over its predecessor. Independent tests prove it's quicker off the line and stronger in the stretch than ever before.

What makes this truly impressive is this 3 manages to be more fuel efficient, too. All 3's come with six-speed transmissions, either automatic or standard shift. Mine had the former and proved to be one of the few times in a sport sedan I didn't yearn for the manual. It would still be my preference, but it is not essential.

True to its roots, this new 330i's ride and handling are unmatched. BMW still has the magic touch when it comes to delivering pure athleticism with no discernable tradeoff in ride quality. The soft ride belies its ability to take a hard corner. Its poise and balance is unflappable.

Among the engineering advances in this 3-series is an electronic traction/stability-control system that can be switched on and off. Even when engaged, it doesn't totally override the car's natural instinct for fun, but steps in to control throttle and brakes just at the right time. Like before you lose it.

Furthermore, this system offers new levels of safe braking assistance. This wizardry includes electronic assist for braking in emergency situations and on wet pavement. It also maintains brake pressure to keep the car from rolling backwards on hills and helps the car come to a gentle stop, even under force braking. It never grabs.

In short, this new 300i takes everything we have loved about this 3 series to the next level performance-wise. For all its technological advances, the driving experience remains pure, connected, thrilling, but never harsh.

The bad news
The new 330i is 2.2 inches longer overall on a moderately extended wheelbase and the width pushes out a hair more than that. But those increases do little to expand dimensions inside. This is a tight interior compared to some competitors. The cabin caters mostly to the driver and front passenger, with the back seat folks relegated to coach class. BMW also refuses to give up on iDrive, the one knob system for controlling multiple functions like audio, climate, etc. They continue to refine it, and that's good. But I still find it complicates that which it seeks to simplify. To be fair, those who get accustomed to it -- a luxury I don't have in a week's test drive -- don't mind it.

Is it worth it?
The base price of this 330i is close to that of the previous model, even though there is more standard equipment on the 2006. That's commendable. But it is still an expensive car for its size and has lots of worthy competition these days for less money.

In my estimation, the decision boils down to whether you want the benchmark – and are willing to pay for it -- or will be satisfied with one of the many who chase it. For the pure enthusiast, this BMW 330i stands head and shoulders above. But the less particular can find great satisfaction elsewhere.

There are good reasons the 3 series has dominated the class for so long. You'll find them all in this 2006 330i.

Particulars
Front-engine, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Price
Base: $36,300;
As tested: $44,540
Notable standard equipment
stability and traction control; front, side and head airbags; Xenon adaptive headlamps; rain sensor windshield, variable assist power steering, run-flat tires; climate control; 8-way power front seats; CD/MP3 audio; power glass moonroof with remote opening;
Major options as tested
Heated seats; retractable headlight washers; power-folding exterior auto-dimming mirrors; power lumbar support; leather interior; automatic transmission; navigation system, satellite radio
Safety
Airbags: front and side impact for front passengers; front and rear head protection; three-point seatbelts at all positions; automatic-locking retractors on all belts; automatic belt pretensioners front and rear outboard seating positions; interlocking door anchoring system for side impacts; traction and stability control (see Good News for system details) Brakes: 4-wheel discs with anti-lock
NHTSA crash test rating: not yet tested
Engine
Type: 3.0 liter DOHC 24-valve inline six-cylinder with composite magnesium/aluminum engine block, Valvetronic system and 3-state induction system
Power: 255 bhp @ 6600 rpm; 220 lb-ft torque @ 2750 rpm
Drivetrain
Transmission: 6-speed automatic (6-speed manual is standard)
Rear-wheel drive
Exterior/Interior Dimensions
Wheelbase: 108.7
Length/width/height: 178.2/71.5/55.9
Curb weight: 3450 lb
Ground clearance: 4.0 in
Luggage capacity: 12 cu ft.
Suspension
Double-pivot-type front suspension with aluminum components; five-link rear suspension
Gas mileage
EPA rated at 21 mpg city/29 highway

Website: www.bmw.com

During her 16 years reviewing new vehicles, Beth Stein has written for Nashville's dailies (circ. 185,000), national magazines and BestStuff.com. She appeared coast-to-coast on-air for Road Test Magazine, Car And Driver Television and Motor Trend Television.