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Though the main soundtrack of any BMW should be its engine, you can’t help but love the BMW Business Radio on the 320i. In fact, I find it to be one of the car’s biggest strengths. Equipped with high-fidelity speakers, it can transform humble FM tunes into a concerto. So, imagine what it can do for your Sting CD. Using the revised head unit is surprisingly simple. Unlike BMW audio units of yore, this one requires no advanced reading. Perhaps its only nod to yesteryear is the location of its 6-disc CD changer, which is still in the trunk. For a company driven by technology, you would have expected an in-dash changer with MP3 capability, but you get neither on the 320i. While it’s easy to get upset with the CD changer, there’s no such quibble from the 320i’s driving dynamics. Though the push button is a bit “why-tech” given that you still have to insert the key before firing the ignition (new Comfort Access changes this), it does heighten the anticipation of the drive. The new 3 Series is noticeably quieter and more comfortable, while still maintaining 90 percent of the previous model’s sporty nature. The E90, as this model’s referred to, scores a ten as it exhibited flawless steering which communicates the right feedback to the driver without being too ragged. The 320i does without any active steering gimmickry, which is just as well, since it may mar the pinpoint driving experience. Aside from the fluid steering, it has a well-balanced chassis. It’s neutral on the corners and exhibits almost no body roll. There’s absolutely no drama even when tackling twisty and rut-filled roads. Pleasantly surprising too are the run-flat tires. A bit of a jolt was expected with the stiffened sidewalls, but ride comfort is every bit as good as on conventional rubber. The remaining 10 percent of the handling equation though isn’t so desirable as the new 3 Series feels heftier than its size and stance would suggest. Don’t get it wrong, it responses almost telepathically, but it just doesn’t feel as quick as 3 Series used to be. As much as wishes are granted in threes, it seems that not-so good news also comes in threes. In this case, after 72 hours of fun and excitement, it was hard to hand the keys of the 320i Sport back to BMW Philippines. Be that as it may, the three days spent behind the wheel of this car is pure bliss. While its rivals have all gone wayward—getting fatter, bigger and softer than before; the 3 Series for the most part, remains true to its fundamental design philosophy. Be it ‘sports sedan’ or ‘luxury sports car’, this Bimmer is both. And after more than 40 years from its 2002 origins, you can say that the BMW 3 Series is any man’s dream granted. |
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