2008 BMW 3 Series Overview 2008 BMW 3 Series, impressive for both driving enthusiasts and BMW experts alike, offers the sportiest and the most elegant car range. Captivating designs, responsive handling, convenient interior, terrific outfit and equipped with new powerful engines, provide a special place for BMW 3 series cars in the line of the world’s prestigious luxury segment cars. Its major competitors include 2008 Audi TT Roadster and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class. The new 2008 BMW 3 Series sedan will feature deeply sculpted front and rear bumpers and slightly modified headlamp units with clear turn signal lenses. The BMW has now caved to the hardtop convertible trend. Engine and performance The 3-Series has long been the standard-bearer in what may be the most competitive segment in the industry. BMW offers an impressive combination of styling, performance, and luxury features for a German luxury sedan. Offered in RWD and AWD versions, the 3-Series model range includes models with two numerical designations referring to differing versions of the same 3.0L inline-six cylinder engine. With the introduction of twin turbochargers to the engine range (335i), power is up to 230hp in 328i/328xi models and 300hp in 335i models. All models still offer a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. All the models deliver an unbelievable fuel economy. Attractive exterior and interiors BMW 3 series instantly catches your eye with its captivating exterior looks. Steering-linked xenon headlights, standard on coupes and 335i sedans, make the machines look wider and elegant. Compared to the previous versions, these models are 3.6 inches longer, 1.7 inches wider, and more than 200 lb heavier. Luxury inside the cabin is dignified and laden with most of the requisite features (among others, automatic climate control, one-touch windows and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel). Standard features on 2008 BMW 3 Series models include 16-inch wheels, automatic climate control, leatherette (vinyl, that is) upholstery, one-touch power windows, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, a CD player and keyless entry. Additionally, coupes have a sport-tuned suspension and coupes and wagons have a split-folding rear seat (optional on sedans). The interiors of the 3 series are simply superb and exhibit the class of their own. The interiors are built with high-quality materials and in a sophisticated manner. All the rear-drive models are equipped with BMW's Active Steering that quickens steering response at low speeds. BMW's iDrive is included with an available navigation system and uses a console knob to control entertainment, navigation, communication and other functions. Most of the 3 Series vehicles will be loaded with the Premium Package, and many will have both the Premium and Sport Packages. The Premium Package comprises auto-dimming mirrors, leather upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, BMW Assist Telematics and power seats. The Sport Package comes with a strong and firmer suspension on convertibles, sedans and wagons, along with larger wheels, performance tires, sport seats and a higher top-speed limiter. Active steering, adaptive cruise control, keyless startup, three-stage heated seats and satellite radio are other extra features. Driving impressions Even with the road dipping and rising, bending left, then right, the 3 Series displays amazing composure even when driven hard. The 3 Series with great steering, amazing body control and an eerie lack of body roll, delivers both a comfortably controlled ride and a quiet cabin environment. The bold chassis and suspension improve the overall grip and poise considerably. The brakes too are sharp and powerful. Safety BMW 3 series comes with loads of standard safety features. ABS and traction/antiskid control, 4-wheel anti-lock braking system, all-passenger automatic locking retractor (ALR)All-position 3-point safety belts-inc, front force limiters, Battery Safety Terminal (BST), Crash sensor-inc, daytime running lights, dual front 2-stage airbags w/occupant sensor and indicator light, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)-inc: electronic brake proportioning, cornering and braking stability enhancement, dynamic brake control, brake fade compensation, brake standby, brake drying, start-off assist, hill descent control, front side-impact airbags, front/rear side curtain head protection system, interlocking door anchoring system, LATCH attachments for rear seats and rollover protection system are the standard safety features included in BMW 3-Series.