Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Usp:
Combines BMW's renowned driving dynamics with the practicality of a sedan and the all-weather capability of xDrive.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS 350 AWD, Infiniti G37x Sedan.
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on sporty handling and powerful acceleration, a hallmark of the 3 Series.
All Wheel Drive:
xDrive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Luxury Appointments:
Premium interior materials, advanced technology, and driver-centric cockpit.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emissions control systems, xDrive all-wheel drive system.
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, braking system (including ABS, DSC), wheel and tire information.
Electrical:
Lighting systems (interior/exterior), instrument cluster, power accessories, battery, fuses, relays, basic electrical troubleshooting.
Infotainment:
iDrive system (CIC or CCC generation likely), audio systems, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, climate control operation.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, child restraint systems (ISOFIX), dynamic stability control (DSC), traction control (DTC), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, locks, seats, mirrors, interior trim, storage compartments, convertible top operation (if applicable to sedan variants).
Operation:
Starting and operating the vehicle, parking, refueling, using cruise control, operating vehicle features.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, changing wiper blades, basic cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding warning lights and indicators, basic diagnostic steps for common issues.
Emergency:
Using hazard lights, changing a tire, jump starting procedures, emergency equipment location.
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information, designed for the end-user to understand vehicle operation, features, and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
Twin-turbocharged Inline 6-cylinder (N55B30)
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
300 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm
Injection Type:
Direct Injection (High-Pressure)
Fuel Requirement:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU Model:
MSV70 or MSV80 (depending on production date)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (optional in some markets)
Type:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters
Automatic Features:
Adaptive transmission logic, sport mode, manual shifting via selector or paddles.
System:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive System (Variable Torque Distribution)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for Coupe/Convertible, Sedan ratings may vary slightly but generally high)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely awarded 'Top Safety Pick' status for its structural integrity and safety features.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated traction control.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection airbags (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Child Restraint:
LATCH (ISOFIX) lower anchor and upper tethers for child seats.
System:
iDrive (likely CIC Professional or Business Navigation System)
Features:
Central control knob with integrated buttons, high-resolution display, music storage, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, optional enhanced USB/Audio Interface.
Navigation:
Integrated GPS navigation system with 2D and 3D map views, real-time traffic information (via optional SiriusXM or cellular connection).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control; optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go function may be available on some models.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) with front and rear sensors; optional rearview camera.
Lighting:
Optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights with automatic leveling and cornering function.
Bluetooth:
Standard Bluetooth hands-free connectivity; optional advanced Bluetooth with phone book access and audio streaming.
Usb Interface:
Optional USB/Audio Interface for connecting iPods and other USB devices for music playback and control.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable; typically indicated by the 'Condition Based Service' (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, whichever comes first.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Air Filter:
Approximately every 30,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Microfilter:
Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles, or annually.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF JWS 3309 (for older ZF 6HP transmissions) or Esso LT 71141 (for specific applications); refer to manual for exact specification as it can vary by transmission variant. Replacement is often considered a 'lifetime' fill by BMW, but independent experts recommend changes.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV).
Common Wear Items:
Water pump and thermostat failure (often due to plastic components), ignition coil and spark plug issues, VANOS solenoids, turboshaft seals (leading to oil consumption), PCV valve issues, fuel injector problems (especially early N54/N55 engines).
X Drive Specific:
Transfer case fluid changes may be recommended by some independent specialists, though BMW historically considered it a lifetime fill. Check for any driveline vibrations or noises.
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with superior driving dynamics.
3 Series Lineage:
The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model line, representing the core of the brand's identity since its introduction in 1975. The E90 generation (2006-2011) marked a significant technological advancement over its predecessor.
Production Period E90:
2006-2011 (Sedan)
Facelift Lci:
The 2011 model year is part of the LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift, introducing updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements.
Ward 3 Best Engines:
The N54/N55 twin-turbocharged inline-6 engines powering the 335i have been recipients of Ward's 10 Best Engines awards in previous years for their power, efficiency, and smooth delivery.
Model Perception:
The E90 3 Series, particularly the 335i, is widely regarded by automotive journalists and enthusiasts as one of the best-driving cars in its class, praised for its chassis balance, steering feel, and potent engine.