2006 BMW 3-Series Road Test

iDrive is one of those technologies that a lot of journalists just love to hate, but to be fair to those who designed

The Premium package for the 330i is priced $1,100 lower than last year's version. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

its interface it's actually quite easy to use once the initial setup is done. I like the fact that all of the car's systems can be accessed via one fairly large monitor, by toggling a beautifully detailed aluminum control knob and surrounding buttons.

A Premium package, available on both models, is priced at $4,300 in the new 325i compared to $3,950 in the outgoing car. It features the same power glass sunroof, 8-way power front seats with heated cushions and driver's side memory, and Harmon/Kardon LOGIC7 audio system - which sounds sensational by the way. The new model also features power folding mirrors in premium guise.

The Premium package for the 330i is priced $1,100 lower than last year's version, however, at $4,200 compared to $5,300, but features less equipment being that the 8-way power driver's and front passenger's seats with memory function are now standard on the top-level 3-Series, plus the through load with ski bag is standard on both models. Other Premium features include a universal garage door opener, auto dimming exterior mirrors, driver's seat

The 2006 3-Series is also available with a Sport package, which features such options as sport seats with electrically adjustable seat width, a 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels, plus a sport suspension. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

lumbar support, a compass in the mirror, Dakota leather seats and trim replace Montana leather seats and trim, and a Harmon/Kardon LOGIC7 audio system.

The 2006 3-Series is also available with a Sport package, just like the 2005 model. At $2,800, it is $500 more expensive than the outgoing car's, and continues forward with updated versions of the same features, such as sport seats with electrically adjustable seat width, a 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels, plus a sport suspension. The only difference, feature to feature, is the addition of performance-oriented run-flat tires.