The exemplary stability exhibited by the 335i during forceful braking carries over to its handling characteristics, which can best be described as lithe, lively and class-leading. Keeping the coupe perfectly positioned in
corners is a fully-independent sport suspension setup that utilizes a double-joint spring-strut design up front and a five-link arrangement out back. Road feel and steering feedback are as clear as sunny days while steering inputs are responded to with lightning speed and deft precision, thanks in part to tremendously wide, low profile 225/40/R18 front rubber 225/35/R18 rear rubber and quick-ratio, lightly-boosted power steering. Unfortunately, the tenacious rubber likes to tram whenever confronted with rutted or uneven road surfaces. In such circumstances, two hands on the wheel is a "must" if the 335i is to remain between the lines. The lack of any real sidewall to speak of combined with the 335i's sport suspension contributes to the tramming effect while providing a ride that's too firm to be described as smooth. It's not M-car punishing by any means but neither is it particularly forgiving. In my "perfect world" scenario, I would ante-up some of the tarmac-searing handling for a little more ride aplomb.
Whether the masses lining-up to claim a 335i Coupe will agree with my assessment of ride-versus-handling or write me off as someone more
suited to a Buick Park Avenue remains to be seen. The question yet to be answered is, will my colleague who insists that a 335i will be his retirement car next year be smitten with the ride or bounced into an early walker? My assumption is that he may be more the typical 335i buyer than younger performance buffs who either can't afford the relatively steep 335i price tag ($54,400CA as tested) or who require a minimum of four doors to accommodate family planning or mis-planning. I wish I had the answer. One thing for certain, the optional Sport Seats are incredibly supportive and comfortable; the benefit of which may delay the walker in Ted's future.
Geriatrics aside, the 335i is an outstanding sports coupe, powered by one of the world's best engines. With only six cylinders doing the pumping, this
potent V8-slayer is capable of busting rubber loose with an ease that's almost lazy when the car's Dynamic Stability Control program is deactivated. It pulls with intensity from bottom to top without exhibiting flatspots or turbo lag. The latter of which has been eliminated with the use of two, small turbochargers rather than a singular unit of greater size. The smaller pair build up pressure instantaneously, never leaving the engine breathless anywhere along its generous rev band. Only one key element is left sucking for air when the turbos spool, and it's situated behind the beefy steering wheel.
I hope Ted retires soon. No, I don't want his job- I want his car!
Impressive:
·Massive low end torque
·Twin turbo I-6 auditory delight
·Beautiful lines and accurate fit & finish
·Balanced chassis fabulous handling
Less impressive:
·Firmness of ride
·Price
·Tight rear seating
·Moderately attractive interior design
 |
| (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com) |
Whether the masses lining-up to claim a 335i Coupe will agree with my assessment of ride-versus-handling or write me off as someone more
 |
| (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com) |
Geriatrics aside, the 335i is an outstanding sports coupe, powered by one of the world's best engines. With only six cylinders doing the pumping, this
 |
| (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com) |
I hope Ted retires soon. No, I don't want his job- I want his car!
 |
| (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com) |
·Massive low end torque
·Twin turbo I-6 auditory delight
·Beautiful lines and accurate fit & finish
·Balanced chassis fabulous handling
Less impressive:
·Firmness of ride
·Price
·Tight rear seating
·Moderately attractive interior design
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