New BMW 3 Series Coupé
With a mountain to climb to match the previous model, if the new BMW 3 Series is anything but an incredible car, it will desperately fall short of the mark. Fortunately, BMW is not shy about a challenge and it seems that the new 3 series is shaping up to be a truly fantastic car.
Externally, the 3 Series coupe is an attractive car that bears BMW’s new styling well and looks fluid and sporty, all while slightly diluted to help the coupe continue to appeal to the same broad market as before. Frameless side windows also help achieve this flowing feel. Road noise has been kept to a minimum, although large wheels and flat tires can make things a bit more intrusive than necessary.
Internally, the new BMW 3 Series is a place of good engineering and high build quality. All the materials used are as expected, of the high quality that should last as long as the mechanics (which for BMW is almost forever). The seats are supportive; everything is adjustable and well laid out, plus there is a huge range of toys in the new 3 series including: electric driver’s seat, automatic xenon headlights and windshield wipers complement the most anticipated equipment such as alloy wheels and CDs. There is also room for four adults, and not only in the ‘2 adults could fit in the back’, but real space for 4 adults to sit comfortably, and a boot that is more than generous.
However, if the new BMW 3 Series shines anywhere, it has to be on the road. With a range of engines made up of: a 2.5-liter gasoline and 218 hp, a 3.0-liter gasoline and 272 hp, a 3.0-liter biturbo and 306 hp and two 3.0-liter turbodiesel, with 231 hp and 286 CV, there is a motor that adapts to each one. All the engines are reasonably frugal to run, even the 306-bhp 3.0-liter twin-turbo 335i that returns nearly 30 mpg. The suspension is firm, (but not so firm as to make driving uncomfortable) and the car has incredible balance and poise. There is an almost endless supply of grip, and with such direct steering the new BMW 3 Series Coupé is a real pleasure to drive, as it should be.
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