Tossing out the 330Ci's anchor at any speed is reassuring; velocity dissipates
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| A generous antilock intervention threshold allows for substantial driver control over maximum braking levels. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
faster than a shooting star in the midnight sky. Pedal feel is firm, however fairly touch-sensitive. Modulating the de-acceleration process is easily and sure-footedly done. A generous antilock intervention threshold allows for substantial driver control over maximum braking levels before interceding, during which little nose-dive inflicts itself on the suppression process. No surprises await a stomp on the middle pedal, which is snugly set amid the two other foot controls. Little movement of the right foot is required to actuate either the brake or throttle. More skilled drivers will find the pedal positioning inviting for heel and toe operation.
Despite driver skill levels, the 330Ci will provide top-notch occupant protection in the event of a crash. Standard
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| The 330Ci will provide top-notch occupant protection in the event of a crash. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
safety equipment includes driver and front passenger front airbags with "smart" dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment capability and passenger seat occupant sensor. The front seat folk also benefit from the protection offered by door-mounted, side-impact airbags and A-pillar-mounted head airbags. Optional for improving rear seat protection is a pair of rear-mounted side-impact airbags. In addition to enough airbags to raise the Titanic, BMW has installed height adjustable front safety belts with automatic pretensioners and force limiters. A crash sensor in the 330Ci automatically unlocks the doors and switches on the interior lights and hazard lights if the vehicle is in a collision and a fuel shut-off system is automatically triggered if an airbag is deployed.
