|
Walkaround
Since its 1992 redesign, the 3-Series has been a design pacesetter that's provoked a number of imitators, the sincerest recognition of a winner. The combination of trim dimensions, wide track and limited front overhang--the portion of the car that extends beyond the front wheels--gives the 3-Series family an exceptionally purposeful appearance, lean, mean and action-ready. This is a large family. In addition to the 328i sedan and 328is coupe, coupe, it includes the 318ti hatchback coupe ($20,560), 318i sedan and 318is coupe ($25,950 and $27,700, respectively), the 318i convertible ($32,750), 328i convertible ($41,390) and, a close cousin, the 2-seat Z3 roadster ($28,750). An update on the 240-hp hot rod M3 coupe will be along later this year. The biggest news in the new 328s lies under the hood, where a 2.8-liter inline 6-cyl. engine replaces the previous 2.5-liter version. Like other new BMWs, the slightly bigger engine is tuned for improved torque rather than peak horsepower, providing better response at low- and mid-range engine speeds, which is where most of us do most of our driving in this country. This doesn't mean that horsepower isn't plentiful. The new engine generates 190 hp at 5300 rpm, compared to 189 at 5900 for the 325i, and it will propel the car up to 128 mph, which is where the electronic speed limiter kicks in. Getting from zero to 60 mph is a matter of about 7 seconds. But the improvement in torque--207 lb.-ft. at 3950 rpm vs. 181 at 4200--is what's really noticeable. The 328i provides impressive pulling power, even at high altitudes in 5th gear, and the inline 6-cyl. is smoother than ever. Transmission choices are the usual--5-speed manual standard, 4-speed automatic optional ($975). Our test car was equipped with the manual shifter, which adds to the fun of driving this car, but performance with an automatic is more than acceptable, thanks to the engine's improved torque characteristics. At 174.5 in., the 328 falls into the relatively small end of the size spectrum, although its 106.4-in. wheelbase is proportionately quite long, a key factor in its ride quality and good looks. By EPA classification, it's actually a subcompact, but it's actually more spacious than that.
Interior Features
Like other BMWs, the 328s provide a driver command center that conjures up images of light aircraft--businesslike analog dials placed for optimum visibility, key controls placed within easy reach, everything illuminated in a reddish glow by night, to reduce driver eyestrain. Audio and climate controls are mounted well up in the center of the dash, and in a car this size nothing is hard to reach. The seats are typical BMW, which is to say sporty, supportive and long-haul comfortable. The snug feeling augments the sporty character of the car, and 8-way power adjustability makes the car tailorable for virtually any body type. The basic upholstery material is a high-grade leatherette. Our test car's leather seating was part of a $2625 Sports Package that also included an on-board computer, 16-in. aluminum alloy wheels with ZR-rated tires, plus a sportier seat configuration, with more pronounced thigh and torso bolstering. Front seat leg and headroom is ample, which is typical of most small sedans and coupes. Rear seat legroom is a bit tight, but there's more of it than you might expect in a car this size--almost as much as a Honda Accord, a pleasant surprise. Standard equipment is consistent with what you'd expect in a car with pricing that starts north of the $30,000 luxury frontier. In fact, it's more than consistent. Major comfort/convenience features like automatic climate control, an AM/FM/cassette sound system, power windows and mirrors, keyless remote entry, cruise control and even a power sunroof. Passive safety features are current with the automotive mainstream--dual airbags, side impact protection and height-adjustable upper seatbelt anchors. BMW has begun introducing side airbags in its more expensive models, but that technology hasn't trickled down to this level yet. Traction control is available as an $1100 option. Active safety is a stronger suit at BMW. The 328's combination of prompt handling response and oustanding brakes give you a better chance of avoiding the crash to begin with, which, of course, is infinitely preferable.
|
Add your own review or comments
