Car Auto Design

BMW calls their coupes, "elegant expressions of individual style and passion, and most automotive enthusiasts would probably agree. Completely redesigned for 2007, today's 3-Series coupe has been renamed the 335i. The crown of the coupe lineup is the 335i xDrive with all-wheel drive and a 300-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. This is BMW's first twin-turbo inline six.

Engineers decided to revive turbocharging, because of recent technical developments. Relatively small turbochargers minimize the dreaded "turbo lag," since they build up pressure much faster than does a single, larger unit. BMW also offers a 328i coupe with a 230-hp, naturally aspirated 3.0-liter six-cylinder that uses magnesium-aluminum construction. Transmission choices for both include a standard six-speed manual gearbox, or an available six-speed Steptronic automatic.

Each model is offered with xDrive, which is BMW's version of all-wheel drive. On smooth, dry roads, xDrive delivers what BMW calls a "sporty, rear-wheel-drive feel," which is precisely what most shoppers are seeking. Along wet or snow-packed roads, on the other hand, xDrive "automatically sends more torque to the axle with more traction," promising helpful front/rear weight balance. Making iDrive an option lets those who favor high-tech control select that unit, but allows those who prefer a simpler, traditional configuration to omit the love-it/hate-it system.