* Click HERE to see a video on the BMW 330xi *
The personal reward
What is in a name? What does it mean to buy a BMW? Is it an emotional or irrational purchase or is it a well thought out move? Why do people buy BMWs as much as they do? Is it because of the service, the prestige or the drive? The answer probably lies in the mix. BMW is on an impressive roll with continued sales success, awards and the all-important desirability factor. BMW is the best selling luxury make in the World.
Every time I get the privilege to drive one of these machines, I remember why I love cars as much as I do and it is as though the "automobile" is thanking me. I get a kick out of driving just about anything; whether it be a Hyundai Accent, a Hummer H3 or a Mazda MX5. A BMW 3-Series represents one of the best day-to-day driving experiences. Ask anyone who drives or has driven one.
A bare-bones 323i sedan starts at $35,200. A 330xi sedan with all the trimmings will set you back over $65,000. I have tested a 330xi with the Sport Package. It retails for $55,700.
Styling
What makes a BMW a BMW? The completely redesigned for 2006 3-Series begins with beautiful and aggressive lines but without "in your face" styling. The car must look confident, something similar to Hummer H1 tackling an off-road course. The BMW must look as though it owns the tarmac. In my humble opinion, the 3-Series is the most straightforward, no non-sense car in BMW's product line. Its exterior lines are crisp, sharp and ever-present when carving through the air. Every available set of wheels somehow accents all the right portions of the car. The headlights define the front end which sports the trademark kidney grille.
The cabin is purposeful and well crafted. The mixture between the grey and black plastics is nicely separated by the aluminium trim. Even though the contrast is nice, nothing beats the Terra coloured leather interior.
In no uncertain words, the front seats are excellent. This is especially true with adjustable lumbar and lateral support for both driver and passenger sides. When properly adjusted to the occupant's tastes, they feel like snug pockets. A perfect driving position is quickly and easily achieved. When in position, the steering wheel and shifter fall perfectly into hand. The HVAC and audio controls may be a little confusing at first but once everything is set to your liking, the auto setting and steering mounted buttons do the rest.
The rear seats offer somewhat limited room although as far as I, the driver is concerned, it will have to do if you are looking for a lift. The trunk is fairly deep although the narrow opening could cause some difficulties when loading bulky objects. The occupier quarters remain fairly quiet while cruising on the highway. Visibility is generally good in every direction.
The personal reward
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Every time I get the privilege to drive one of these machines, I remember why I love cars as much as I do and it is as though the "automobile" is thanking me. I get a kick out of driving just about anything; whether it be a Hyundai Accent, a Hummer H3 or a Mazda MX5. A BMW 3-Series represents one of the best day-to-day driving experiences. Ask anyone who drives or has driven one.
A bare-bones 323i sedan starts at $35,200. A 330xi sedan with all the trimmings will set you back over $65,000. I have tested a 330xi with the Sport Package. It retails for $55,700.
 |
Styling
What makes a BMW a BMW? The completely redesigned for 2006 3-Series begins with beautiful and aggressive lines but without "in your face" styling. The car must look confident, something similar to Hummer H1 tackling an off-road course. The BMW must look as though it owns the tarmac. In my humble opinion, the 3-Series is the most straightforward, no non-sense car in BMW's product line. Its exterior lines are crisp, sharp and ever-present when carving through the air. Every available set of wheels somehow accents all the right portions of the car. The headlights define the front end which sports the trademark kidney grille.
The cabin is purposeful and well crafted. The mixture between the grey and black plastics is nicely separated by the aluminium trim. Even though the contrast is nice, nothing beats the Terra coloured leather interior.
 |
The rear seats offer somewhat limited room although as far as I, the driver is concerned, it will have to do if you are looking for a lift. The trunk is fairly deep although the narrow opening could cause some difficulties when loading bulky objects. The occupier quarters remain fairly quiet while cruising on the highway. Visibility is generally good in every direction.