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The 3.0 inline-6 is the pièce de résistance of the lineup. Instant response, blistering acceleration, and a spine-tingling soundtrack all come standard with the 3.0. This new engines incorporates lightweight materials such as magnesium for its crankcase, and is equipped with a world-first electric water pump that further improves efficiency. There’s only one transmission choice—the 6-speed automatic. Its transmission ratios are customized for each engine combination, and with closely-spaced ratios, it makes the most of the available power and torque. Greater response is available on demand, with the manual override function. As part of the 3 Series’ launch activity, BMW transported an entire office and dealership to the Fort grounds, including a test drive area and circular slalom course. On the tarmac, the 320i was perceptibly lighter than its 6-cylinder brethren; less weight at the nose made it more agile through the orange cones. The 330i is still unparalleled for its acceleration and growling engine note. Pleasantly surprising are the run-flat tires. We expected a bit of a jolt with the stiffened sidewalls, but ride comfort is every bit as good as on conventional rubber. The steering feels as perfectly weighted and precisely pointable as on the previous generation. We are rather skeptical that Active Steering will add anything to the already stellar controls. So has the 3 kept its mantle of the best-driving executive car? When we drove it earlier this year, the old 3 still felt bang up-to-date and quite far from its sell-by date. By launching the new car even before the old model was usurped from its throne, BMW guarantees its leadership for some time to come. The downside is that prices have been bumped up, with the increased technology content making up for some of the gadgets that have to be ordered as options. Take note that the purchase price covers all service and maintenance for three years, including consumables. Gasoline and tires are about the only other things you have to pay for; the fun comes at no extra charge. |
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