One of the most noteworthy qualities about a BMW is the way it handles. Many sports sedans on the market sacrifice a comfortable ride to achieve better stability. The new 3-Series avoids this sacrifice, providing a smooth ride as well as impressive handling.
Improvements in the 3-Series that help make this happen include a new 5-link rear suspension, a double-pivot front suspension, a more rigid body and chassis, and extensive use of aluminum components to reduce unsprung weight.
The now-standard run-flat tires did not intrude on the driving experience, which says a lot. Typically run-flats can provide a harsh, uncomfortable ride, but the suspension in the new 3 works so well with run-flats that there is no detectable difference between them and standard pneumatic tires.
The engine-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering system continues essentially unchanged; however, the new suspension and sub-frame have actually sharpened the new 3's reaction to steering inputs. Steering feels very precise, with good feedback from the road. BMW's Active Steering is available for the first time on the 3-Series. With Active Steering, the steering ratio varies depending on speed and steering input.
New Look Inside and Out. Although immediately recognizable as a BMW 3-Series, the new car is quite a change from the outgoing generation. However, the change is not as extreme as it was with the new-generation 5-Series—a styling statement that many BMW loyalists still have not readily accepted. The front of the 3 is much bolder, with larger headlights better integrated into the overall design. BMW's Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional on the 325i, standard on the 330i) feature distinctive light rings integrated into the headlights, which actually swivel to illuminate in the direction the car is turning. No longer part of the hood, the grille of the 3-Series also increases in size. Chrome slats differentiate the 330 from the 325, which has black slats.
The side view features a crease that intersects the door handles, creating a line angling down towards the headlights. This runs parallel to the beltline (at the base of the windows), which flows from the taillights all the way forward to the front of the car, giving the 3-Series a crisp, angled style and a feeling of forward motion. At the rear, taillights have the familiar L-shape, with Adaptive Brake Lights lighting an additional segment under heavy braking.
The interior features a new steering wheel, instrument panel and seats. Following the latest trend, a pushbutton starts the car rather than a key. However, at least for the time being, the key must be in the ignition. Eventually, BMW will offer "Keyless Go," which will recognize the proximity of the key to activate the start button.
Sirius Satellite radio is now available on the 3-Series line, as is the widely known, but not widely accepted, I-Drive. BMW's unique interface system uses a single knob to access navigation, communication, entertainment and other car settings. Previous versions have been quite complicated, resulting in mixed reviews. Standard in the 7-Series and 5-Series, the new 3-Series will be the first to offer I-Drive as an option. It is part of the $2,000 Navigation System package, and BMW reps expect about eight to ten percent of buyers to opt for this feature.
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