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New car reviews » 2010 BMW 335i

Better than: BMW 325e
But not as good as: M3
GRM Bang For The Buck Index: 89.07  

The BMW 3 Series has been an enthusiast favorite for decades, and the latest E90/E92-chassis cars certainly continue that tradition. Several different variants are available, with the twin-turbo 335i scratching a certain itch.

The latest 3 Series has been with us since 2005 and recently got a face-lift. The more aggressive nose features a new bumper, grille and lamps, while the rear bumper and tail lamps have been massaged a bit.

The ever-changing iDrive system has also been tweaked, as the knob is now surrounded by some small buttons. The result is a more direct path to some popular functions.

Other staff views:

David S. Wallens Editorial Director:

You know, I would have given this car five stars in every department if it had a touch screen instead of iDrive. Yes, the iDrive has been improved, but there’s still better input devices—like, for example, why not simply let me type out the address of the place that I’d like to visit? Using iDrive is the equivalent of sending a text message with a rotary phone.

Other than that one gripe, the 335i is still pretty freaking sweet. It’s fast, it’s comfortable and it’s even somewhat stealthy. It’s a car that could carry a family across country, fetch your parents, and tear around VIR. The 3 Series, especially when carrying some serious firepower, is still the do-it-all machine.

While the latest ones start at $40k, fortunately the 335i has been with us a for a few years now. It’s probably one of the best used cars out there.

Reader comments:

  1. ZOO: — Aug 2, 2010 7:15 p.m.

    When the time comes to replace my 4-door E36 M3, it will be a 4-door 335.

  2. maxx4wd: — Aug 21, 2010 2:41 a.m.

    I just picked up my 335i used for quite a bit less than 30K. I replaced my Evo and can’t say that I miss it much…this car is a great all-around vehicle..plus once chipped and a decent set of rubber is added…the vehicle could keep up with much pricier machinery…my favorite combo.

  3. Rupert: — Aug 21, 2010 12:12 p.m.

    Wow, a brand new BMW Bavaria! No wait Bavarias were lighter and more responsive. It’s a great thing BMW has come out with the 1 series. Take away 2/3s of the silly gadgets and the 1 series is a lot like BMW 3 series cars used to be.

    Now if they can just re-create the 2002!

2010 BMW 335i Specs:

Drivetrain Layout:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Engine:
3.0 liter Inline-6
Horsepower:
300 bhp
Torque:
300 lb.-ft
Transmission:
manual
Brakes:
(front)
(rear)
Weight:
3593 pounds
Price:
Base: $40600

Staff Ratings:

Stock Performance:
****1/2
Performance Potential:
*****
Daily Driver Manners:
****1/2
Fit and Finish:
*****
Overall:
****1/2

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