New Beemer Doesn't DisappointThanks to magnificent handling, solid build quality and noteworthy refinement, the BMW 3-Series has long been reputed as a class-leading specimen
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| BMW knew its aging 3-Series was going to need a shot in its circulatory system to keep up. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
in the Premium Compact segment. This cluster of performance machines includes some tough competition from Europe, Japan and North America, such as the Acura TSX, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G35, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS 300, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Saab 9-3 and Volvo S60. With such esteemed company - which is only expected to improve as revised replacement models appear on the horizon - BMW knew its aging 3-Series was going to need a shot in its circulatory system to keep up. Call it blood-doping or outright steroid use, but the Bavarian Motor Works company has imbued the new 3-Series with improved performanceand stunning refinement, not to mention dramatic styling.
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| A sharply creased shoulder line runs horizontally through the door-handles, highlighting the car's side view between its athletically flared wheel wells and raised rear deck. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
2005 3-Series parked near this week's tester provided the contrast necessary to fully appreciate the aggressive styling of the 2006 330i, the fifth generation 3. No sheet metal panel has been carried forward from last year's model; this gen's stamping is completely new and more in-line with the restyled 5-Series than the "out there" 7-Series. From the front, the new 3 exhibits a crouched-down, ready-to-pounce silhouette dominated by predatory feline-shaped headlights and BMW's snarling nostrils, signature bi-kidney grille. A sharply creased shoulder line runs horizontally through the door-handles, highlighting the car's side view between its athletically flared wheel wells and raised rear deck.
