In Europe, BMW offers a bunch of diesel engines, including a 2.0-litre inline-4 that develops 116 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque and a turbo version with up to 177 hp and 258 lb-ft. Needless to say, these 4-bangers are more fuel-efficient; let’s hope the 335d gains enough popularity to justify certifying a small diesel engine in North America.
The body and soul
For 2009, 3-Series sedans and wagons get a mild reskin that includes new front and rear fascias, although it looks very similar to previous model-year editions. They now more closely resemble the coupe and cabriolet versions, which were redesigned two years ago.
Inside, the 335d is beautifully finished with its saddle-brown leather seats, high-quality components and solid assembly. It is, however, starting to feel a little dated and conservative. As mentioned in previous 3-Series reviews, rear-seat space is tight while entry and exit is a little awkward.
A good note goes to the improved iDrive system. The control knob is now surrounded by buttons that makes selecting basic features quicker, like the phone or navigation systems. The menus on the display screen are easier to read and understand. After years or criticism, BMW finally understood that you can’t control everything easily with a rotary knob.
The price
The 2009 BMW 335d starts at $49,700 and isn’t available with all-wheel drive or a manual transmission. An equivalent 335i costs $50,500. Our test car includes everything but the kitchen sink, including the Executive Package ($2,500), the Premium Package ($2,800), the Navigation Package ($2,000) the Sport Package ($2,400), the Audiophile Sound Package ($2,000) as well as an $800 charge for metallic paint. Total is a breathtaking $62,200.
By the time you read this, the 2010 3-Series will be on sale, and the 335d gets a barely-noticeable price increase of $200. A few option packages are a little less expensive because some optional features have become standard equipment, like USB/iPod connectivity, Bluetooth and an alarm system.
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| The 335d is an interesting choice for those who like diesel engines and who want a no-sacrifice sedan that’s both quick and fuel-efficient. |
The body and soul
For 2009, 3-Series sedans and wagons get a mild reskin that includes new front and rear fascias, although it looks very similar to previous model-year editions. They now more closely resemble the coupe and cabriolet versions, which were redesigned two years ago.
Inside, the 335d is beautifully finished with its saddle-brown leather seats, high-quality components and solid assembly. It is, however, starting to feel a little dated and conservative. As mentioned in previous 3-Series reviews, rear-seat space is tight while entry and exit is a little awkward.
A good note goes to the improved iDrive system. The control knob is now surrounded by buttons that makes selecting basic features quicker, like the phone or navigation systems. The menus on the display screen are easier to read and understand. After years or criticism, BMW finally understood that you can’t control everything easily with a rotary knob.
The price
The 2009 BMW 335d starts at $49,700 and isn’t available with all-wheel drive or a manual transmission. An equivalent 335i costs $50,500. Our test car includes everything but the kitchen sink, including the Executive Package ($2,500), the Premium Package ($2,800), the Navigation Package ($2,000) the Sport Package ($2,400), the Audiophile Sound Package ($2,000) as well as an $800 charge for metallic paint. Total is a breathtaking $62,200.
By the time you read this, the 2010 3-Series will be on sale, and the 335d gets a barely-noticeable price increase of $200. A few option packages are a little less expensive because some optional features have become standard equipment, like USB/iPod connectivity, Bluetooth and an alarm system.
 |
| Inside, the 335d is beautifully finished with its saddle-brown leather seats, high-quality components and solid assembly. |