* Click HERE to see a video on the BMW 330Xi *
A fond farewell
The BMW 3-series is a staple in the automotive world. Since the late 70's, when the first 320i hit our shores, drivers and racers alike have considered these cars to be some of the finest to drive. Between 1977 and 2005, only 4 generations separate the E21 320i from the E46 320i. In that period of time, the cars got bigger, increasingly luxurious and, most importantly, more powerful. The 1988 E30 M3 is a perfect example of BMW wanting to show off its real skill as a performance car builder. As the race for "more is better" continues, BMW will soon be replacing the E46 for an all-new E90 325i. Again, more generously proportioned and with additional brawn, the 5th generation 3-series has already garnered rave reviews for its outstanding road handling abilities and its sheer desirability.
The present-day 3-series was also adorned with praise when it was first introduced in 1999. This road test is basically a final farewell to a car that, in its time, made many car enthusiasts dream, and lucky owners feel very content about their purchase. I would also note that the E46 M3, with its 333 hp 3.2L inline 6, was not bad either...
An entry level 320i retails for $34,950. A fully optioned out 330xi sedan
can have an asking price of over $60,000. Our tested 330xi, equipped with the M Executive AWD Package and a few other options, has a sticker price of just over $59,000.
Exterior styling
This BMW is arguably one of the best looking cars in the world today, especially in Coupe form. It is one of those cars that is instantly recognizable thanks to its shape, proportions and signature twin-kidney shaped grille. The car's lines are gracious and very appealing. The 3-series is a serious no-nonsense automobile that does not require add-ons to make it look like it can go faster. The fender flares are subtle, as is the small spoiler integrated in the boot lid.
The door hinges have notches to prevent them from closing back on the passenger when opened. The problem is that if they are not pushed out
hard enough, they actually return towards the occupant as they are exiting. Exterior body panels are expertly aligned and paint finish is very good.
I found the range of the keyless entry remote to be very short: if I was standing more that 10 meters away, the doors would not unlock. In the same vein, the remote trunk would work one out of two times on the first try.
Interior styling
The front seats are fantastic. They are supportive in all the right areas, comfortable and hugging. The extendable lower seat cushion ensures that just about every passenger will find wellbeing behind the wheel. Finding a comfortable driving position is child's play thanks to the multiple possible adjustments and the fact that BMW creates a driving environment centered on the driver.
A fond farewell
 |
The present-day 3-series was also adorned with praise when it was first introduced in 1999. This road test is basically a final farewell to a car that, in its time, made many car enthusiasts dream, and lucky owners feel very content about their purchase. I would also note that the E46 M3, with its 333 hp 3.2L inline 6, was not bad either...
An entry level 320i retails for $34,950. A fully optioned out 330xi sedan
 |
Exterior styling
This BMW is arguably one of the best looking cars in the world today, especially in Coupe form. It is one of those cars that is instantly recognizable thanks to its shape, proportions and signature twin-kidney shaped grille. The car's lines are gracious and very appealing. The 3-series is a serious no-nonsense automobile that does not require add-ons to make it look like it can go faster. The fender flares are subtle, as is the small spoiler integrated in the boot lid.
The door hinges have notches to prevent them from closing back on the passenger when opened. The problem is that if they are not pushed out
 |
I found the range of the keyless entry remote to be very short: if I was standing more that 10 meters away, the doors would not unlock. In the same vein, the remote trunk would work one out of two times on the first try.
Interior styling
The front seats are fantastic. They are supportive in all the right areas, comfortable and hugging. The extendable lower seat cushion ensures that just about every passenger will find wellbeing behind the wheel. Finding a comfortable driving position is child's play thanks to the multiple possible adjustments and the fact that BMW creates a driving environment centered on the driver.