There has never been a 3-Series generation as good as this one. Of course, we say that every time a new generation is launched, but it does happen in the automotive world that a company blows it and creates a vehicle that's worse than the previous model.
And yes, the new M3 is a pretty slick machine, with mind-blowing performance and looks to kill. But let's face it; we're not living in California or in Arizona, where winter doesn't really exist and there are more open roads. That's why for us Canadians, a 335xi makes better sense.
Marvel of an engine
The twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 that's found under the hood of the 335 versions (as well as the 135 and the 535) is a magnificent piece of engineering. With 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, the latter peaking at just 1,400 rpm, the car offers blistering performance, all the time. From a standstill, the 335xi reaches 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, and that was performed on a partially icy surface.
Furthermore, you get your choice of a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed auto with manual mode. Opt for the Sport Package, you also get wheel-mounted paddle shifters with the automatic.
And despite all that power, the engine remains a fuel miser. Okay, it requires premium unleaded just like most luxury vehicles, but our average of 11.8 L/100 km is pretty good considering that we're often driving with the pedal to the metal.
Predictable handling
During a day on Mécaglisse's winter test track, we had a ball flinging the 335xi sideways and drifting through tight bends. The xDrive system is rear-wheel biased but sends power to the front wheels when the rear ones are spinning.
During the acceleration tests, though, the car was nervous and so were we, white-knuckling our way to speed while the DSC traction and stability-control system was frantically seeking adherence. During a snowstorm, though, and driving at a more reasonable clip, xDrive helps the car keep a straight line and give the driver a sense of safety; you'll be barrelling down the left lane while others are slipping and sliding in the right one.
Excellent handling has always been a BMW trademark, and this 3-Series shines accordingly. The car shows great composure during cornering and the steering is surgically precise. We just wish the ride wasn't as stiff and painful; even with 17-inch winter tires (our test car has the Sport package while normally includes ultra low-profile 18-inchers), the 335xi is a little too brutal for our tastes.
And yes, the new M3 is a pretty slick machine, with mind-blowing performance and looks to kill. But let's face it; we're not living in California or in Arizona, where winter doesn't really exist and there are more open roads. That's why for us Canadians, a 335xi makes better sense.
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| There has never been a 3-Series generation as good as this one. |
Marvel of an engine
The twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 that's found under the hood of the 335 versions (as well as the 135 and the 535) is a magnificent piece of engineering. With 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, the latter peaking at just 1,400 rpm, the car offers blistering performance, all the time. From a standstill, the 335xi reaches 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, and that was performed on a partially icy surface.
Furthermore, you get your choice of a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed auto with manual mode. Opt for the Sport Package, you also get wheel-mounted paddle shifters with the automatic.
And despite all that power, the engine remains a fuel miser. Okay, it requires premium unleaded just like most luxury vehicles, but our average of 11.8 L/100 km is pretty good considering that we're often driving with the pedal to the metal.
Predictable handling
During a day on Mécaglisse's winter test track, we had a ball flinging the 335xi sideways and drifting through tight bends. The xDrive system is rear-wheel biased but sends power to the front wheels when the rear ones are spinning.
During the acceleration tests, though, the car was nervous and so were we, white-knuckling our way to speed while the DSC traction and stability-control system was frantically seeking adherence. During a snowstorm, though, and driving at a more reasonable clip, xDrive helps the car keep a straight line and give the driver a sense of safety; you'll be barrelling down the left lane while others are slipping and sliding in the right one.
Excellent handling has always been a BMW trademark, and this 3-Series shines accordingly. The car shows great composure during cornering and the steering is surgically precise. We just wish the ride wasn't as stiff and painful; even with 17-inch winter tires (our test car has the Sport package while normally includes ultra low-profile 18-inchers), the 335xi is a little too brutal for our tastes.
 |
| The car shows great composure during cornering and the steering is surgically precise. |