2008 BMW 3 Series Coupe

Turbo Power

The BMW 3 Series Coupe delights driving enthusiasts with a turbocharged engine for the top 335i model.

Two versions of the BMW 3 Series Coupe are now called the BMW 328i Coupe and the BMW 335i Coupe. The top 335i model features BMW’s first turbocharged engine since the 1970s. Rear-wheel drive remains standard, but this is also the first generation of BMW coupes in nearly two decades to offer all-wheel drive as an option.

The 328i has one of the most peppy and efficient six-cylinder engines in the industry. The 335i packs a new twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine, which produces faster 0-60 mph times.

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The standard transmission is now a six-speed manual. A six-speed “Steptronic” automatic transmission that can be taken through the gears manually is optional and includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The new 3 Series Coupe is a bit larger than last year’s model, with a stiffer chassis, a 50/50 front-to-rear weight ratio, considered optimum for performance as well as handling, and improved suspension and braking.

The improved front and rear suspension setup enables crisp, neutral handling for fun, spirited driving and a compliant ride. Active Steering technology is optional. Though the system offers more immediate steering response, purists may favor the standard setup for its simplicity and unfiltered feedback.

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BMW uses "x" in its model names to denote all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive system in the BMW 328xi Coupe originally comes from the BMW X3 and X5 SUVs. It is also the same setup used on the sedan and wagon versions. Front-to-rear power distribution is variable, but under normal driving conditions the system sends more power to the rear wheels than the front to preserve the 3 Series' trademark sporty handling. When the wheels slip or the sensors detect an imminent skid, power is sent to the wheels with the most grip.

The stability control system in the BMW 3 Series Coupe has been improved. It features traction control like before and an expanded range of brake functions that have been incorporated on all BMW models. Brake Standby reacts when the driver suddenly lifts off the accelerator, anticipating hard braking, and snugs the brake pads against the rotors. Start-Off Assistant automatically engages the brakes on an incline to prevent the car from rolling back when the driver lifts off the brake pedal to depress the accelerator.

BMW 3 Series Coupe Vehicle Summary

Exterior styling is very close to the BMW 3 Series Sedan but has a few distinctive visual elements, like a lower roofline and sleeker profile, with flowing character lines. The coupe is also distinguished by a power-domed hood, different front styling, exclusive round quad headlamps and horizontal, two-part LED taillights.

Adaptive high-intensity Xenon headlamps are standard. They pivot to help illuminate the road around curves at night. The taillamps now incorporate so-called Adaptive Brake Lights that illuminate more brightly if the driver is making a panic stop or the ABS is engaged.

The redesigned interior is simple and tasteful. Instruments and switches are well positioned. The seats remain among the most supportive and comfortable in the industry.

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The coupe’s rear seat accommodates two passengers, but it's best suited for kids, not adults. The rear seating position is set lower than in the front to help recover some of the headroom lost by the rakish roofline. This could make it hard to get in and out. Coupled with small rear windows, it also could create a claustrophobic feeling in the rear.

BMW covers all factory-recommended maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Is the BMW 3 Series Coupe for You?

Buy the 3 Series Coupe if
You want a sporty, premium compact coupe that’s fun to drive and has style; performance and fuel economy matter equally; you're a fan of previous versions and are looking to upgrade; you value the superior balance and driving dynamics of rear-wheel drive; you rarely have anyone in the backseat.

Keep Looking if
You need four doors, a more accommodating rear seat and a larger trunk; you want a larger, more powerful and/or more luxurious model; fuel economy matters most.

Who Fits?
The front is accommodating for a car this size; the seats and steering wheel offer ample adjustment for all sizes; most adults will find rear legroom and headroom lacking.

Closest Competitors
Infiniti G37, Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, Volvo C70

Did You Know?
The 3 Series’ U.S. heritage dates back to 1977, when BMW began importing the two-door 320i as a replacement for the popular 2002 coupe. Over several generations of improvements and a model line that eventually expanded to sedans, convertibles, station wagons and the ultra-performing M3, the 3 Series remains the leader in its market segment. The automaker’s first two-door car was the BMW 327 from the 1930s.