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2008 BMW 3 Series Sedan
2008 BMW 3 Series Sedan
The Legend Continues
The BMW 3 Series Sedan extends its reign at the top of the compact luxury four-door segment.
The BMW 3 Series is as much fun to drive as many sports cars.
The base model of the 3 Series is the BMW 328i sedan, powered by a peppy six-cylinder engine. The BMW 335i sedan also packs a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, plus twin turbochargers, an upgrade that produces about 30 percent more power and faster 0-60 mph times. For most drivers, the 328i offers more than enough power.
The standard transmission in the BMW 3 Series Sedan is a six-speed manual; a six-speed Steptronic automatic that can be taken through the gears like a manual is optional. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters can also be added.
The BMW 3 Series front and rear suspension setup enables crisp, neutral handling for spirited driving and a compliant ride. BMW’s Active Steering is optional. Though the system offers more immediate steering response, purists may favor the standard setup for its simplicity and unfiltered feedback.
BMW uses the letter "x" in its model names to denote all-wheel drive. The BMW 328xi sedan has an all-wheel-drive system that originally comes from the BMW X3 and X5 SUVs. The same setup is used on the 3 Series Coupe and Wagon versions. The front-to-rear power distribution is variable, but under normal driving conditions the system sends more power to the rear wheels to preserve the 3 Series' trademark sporty handling. When the wheels slip or the sensors detect an imminent skid, power is transferred to the wheels with the most grip.
The stability control system in the BMW 3 Series Sedan features traction control and an expanded range of brake functions that have been incorporated on all BMW models. Features include Brake Standby, which reacts when the driver suddenly lifts off the accelerator, anticipating hard braking by moving the brake pads against the rotors. Also included is Start-Off Assistant, which 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.
The sedan’s interior is tastefully designed. Most displays are easily visible and switches are within easy reach. While the front seats remain among the most supportive and comfortable in the industry, larger occupants will feel cramped in the rear.
Is the BMW 3 Series Sedan for You?
| Buy the BMW 3 Series Sedan if | You want a sporty, premium compact sedan that's fun to drive and has style; you value the superior balance and driving dynamics of rear-wheel drive. |
| Keep Looking if | You need a more accommodating rear seat and a larger trunk; you want a larger, more powerful and/or more luxurious model. |
| Who Fits? | The front is accommodating for a car this size; the seats and steering wheel offer ample adjustment for all sizes; larger occupants will find rear legroom and headroom lacking. |
| Closest Competitors | |
| 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. |
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