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BMW 3-Series

BMW 335Ci

The new two-door BMW 335Ci may not look as dramatic as the Audi TT or Lotus Europa - but it's a practical and refined coupe

Precise steering adds to appeal; nose is taken from saloon

Text: Oliver Marriage / Photos: David Shepherd

September 2006

  • Rating:
This is shaping up to be a great month for coupé fans. Not only has the Lotus Europa given us something to cheer about, but the new Audi TT is just arriving in dealerships, too. However, neither can rest easy, due to the presence of the latest BMW 3-Series Coupé.

 
Business as usual so far. But what sets this model apart is its engine – a twin-turbo 3.0 which produces 400Nm of torque from a mere 1,300rpm
Arriving nearly 18 months after the saloon on which it’s based, the two-door is nowhere near as dramatic to look at as rivals, but it does benefit from a practical cabin. That combination certainly stood its predecessor in good stead, while the interior is every bit as well built, comfortable and refined as you’d hope.

Business as usual so far. But what sets this model apart is its engine – a twin-turbo 3.0 which produces 400Nm of torque from a mere 1,300rpm. It’s an amazing unit, pulling strongly to the red line, with no lag or turbo whistle. The 0-60mph sprint is covered in 5.5 seconds, and overtaking is effortless in any of the smooth manual box’s six gears.

The driving experience follows the same route. In SE guise, it’s comfortable and capable, but push hard and the dynamics are accomplished enough to keep the most demanding enthusiast happy.

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For an alternative review of the latest BMW 3-Series visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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FIRST OPINION

    The 3-Series Coupé won’t worry Audi’s TT in the style stakes, but this 306bhp engine has the edge. Potent and tuneful, it serves up effortless performance, and is a sign of things to come. The 335Ci is probably the class’s best all-rounder.
 

AT A GLANCE

    The 335Ci is a highly polished performer. Its suspension soaks up punishment, while the handling is as engaging as you would expect from BMW. However, the cutting-edge twin-turbo engine is the real star of the show.
    Engine: 3.0 straight-six, 306bhp
    Price: £33,420
     
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