Overview
Acclaimed as one of the best entry-level luxury vehicles, the BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible models enter into 2011 with substantial enhancements including outstanding style updates for 328i and 335i models and a new engine for 335i models. The 3-Series offers 2-door coupes and convertibles, as well as 4-door sedans and wagons. Depending on body style, the 328i is available with rear-wheel drive or with BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive configuration.
Power and performance
All models of the 2011 BMW 3 Series are powered by a variant of the 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine. The 328i and 328xi make 230 hp. The 335i model gets a new turbocharged, all-aluminum engine which essentially maintains the same 3.0-liter displacement of its predecessor but benefits from five additional year's worth of development and refinement with 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and a 7,000 rpm redline. All models have a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. EPA estimates of fuel economy average 20/29 mpg (city/highway).
Body and styling
The BMW 3 Series is without a doubt the best-performing sport sedan yet and is still the benchmark when it comes to displaying a depth of engineering and design skill.
BMW's 3 Series carries the signature double-kidney grille and a sculpted, smooth appearance. Clear-lens xenon swivel headlights wrap around corners emphasizing the car's width. Four lines sweep back to the trunk lid, defining the rocker panels and doors. Cabin interiors are classic BMW with emphasis on driver comfort. Build quality is exceptional, seats are supportive, and the dash has simple, neat analog gauges. ABS, traction/antiskid control, and front side airbags are standard; side airbags are standard on all but convertibles. BMW's Active Steering is standard on all rear-drive models. BMW's iDrive uses a console knob to control entertainment, navigation, communication, and other functions. Convertibles have a power-retractable hard top.
Standard features on the 2011 BMW 3-Series include automatic climate control; advanced vehicle and key memory; electric interior tailgate release; tilt/telescopic steering wheel column; dark burl walnut wood trimmings; leatherette upholstery; front seatback storage nets; a 10-speaker CD stereo with auxiliary jack; front center armrest with climate-controlled storage; 8-way adjustable front seats; 3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth phone controls; front seatback storage nets; rear center armrest with storage and cup holders; and a cargo area with under-floor storage.
Exterior features include heated side mirrors; run-flat tires; a tire pressure monitor; rain-sensing windshield wipers; rear window wiper/washer; Halogen high- and low-beam headlights; fog lights; panoramic sunroof; sport-tuned suspension; chrome-plated exhaust notes; roof rails; and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Safety Features
Standard safety features of the 2011 BMW 3 Series include anti-lock braking system (ABS), adaptive brake lights; BMW's advanced safety system; front and rear head protection system (HPS); driver and passenger front airbag; seat-mounted front side-impact airbags; automatic safety belt pre-tensioners; central locking system; coded drive-away protection; automatic-locking retractors (ALR) for LATCH attachments; crash sensors with hazard lights and interior lights; and programmable daytime running lights.
