xi 4dr All-Wheel Drive Sedan
2008 BMW 335

2008 335 Photos
The BMW 3 Series comprises a range of sedans, coupes, convertibles and wagons, with different engines, a wide variety of options, and a spread of $35,000 from the bottom to the top of the line. Yet from the least expensive 328i sedan to the ultra-high performance M3 (reviewed separately), all 3 Series cars put an emphasis on one thing: Sporty driving dynamics that appeal to enthusiast drivers.

For 2008, BMW matches its xDrive all-wheel drive system with its 300-horsepower, twin-turbo six-cylinder engine for the first time in the 3 Series, introducing the 335xi sedan and coupe. The 3 Series also offers paddle shifters on the steering wheel with the optional six-speed automatic transmission. And with introduction of the new 1 Series coupe, the 3 Series cars are no longer the smallest in BMW's North American lineup.

All 3 Series models share mechanical components and similarly compact exterior dimensions. Differences lie in body style or exterior design, though the coupe and convertible have belts for four passengers rather than five. All are a blast to drive.

BMW sells more manual transmissions in this class than any manufacturer, and that probably says something about the type of drivers choosing the 3. These are rear-drive cars, though all-wheel drive is available, and even the optional automatic transmission is tuned for crisp, sporty shifting. Handling response is sharp and precise, and braking capability is best in class. The base engine in the 328s, BMW's trademark 3.0-liter straight six, is more than powerful enough for brisk acceleration and a sinfully good time. The upgrade twin-turbo six in the 335s is one of the most viscerally satisfying engines in production.

The four-door 3 Series sedan is most familiar, and among the most passenger friendly. The Sports Wagon adds substantial cargo space and utility. It's great for couples or families who often bring the dog, though it isn't available with the twin-turbo engine.

The 328i and 335i Convertibles might be the sexiest 3s, with their fully automatic, one-button folding hardtop. With the top up, the convertible is nearly as solid and quiet as the coupe. The tradeoff, aside from the substantial price increase, is that the convertible seats four and has very little trunk space.

The two-door 3 Series coupes are the sportiest. The firmer sport suspension, optional with other body styles, comes standard on the coupe, and these are the lightest cars in the line. They seat four, like the convertible, but they'll appeal to those who want sporting capability something like a sports car's but need a reasonable back seat and decent-sized trunk.

The emphasis on sporty driving shouldn't put anyone off. Even with the firmest suspension, the ride in all 3 Series models remains reasonably supple. There's room inside for young families or four adults for a night out, in well-designed, nicely finished interiors.

The 3 Series offer gizmos you'd expect in larger, full-on luxury sedans. Those powerful engines are also efficient, and EPA mileage ratings go as high as 28 mpg Highway. Exterior …
Full Review

The BMW 3 Series comprises a range of sedans, coupes, convertibles and wagons, with different engines, a wide variety of options, and a spread of $35,000 from the bottom to the top of the line. Yet from the least expensive 328i sedan to the ultra-high performance M3 (reviewed separately), all 3 Series cars put an emphasis on one thing: Sporty driving dynamics that appeal to enthusiast drivers.

For 2008, BMW matches its xDrive all-wheel drive system with its 300-horsepower, twin-turbo six-cylinder engine for the first time in the 3 Series, introducing the 335xi sedan and coupe. The 3 Series also offers paddle shifters on the steering wheel with the optional six-speed automatic transmission. And with introduction of the new 1 Series coupe, the 3 Series cars are no longer the smallest in BMW's North American lineup.

All 3 Series models share mechanical components and similarly compact exterior dimensions. Differences lie in body style or exterior design, though the coupe and convertible have belts for four passengers rather than five. All are a blast to drive.

BMW sells more manual transmissions in this class than any manufacturer, and that probably says something about the type of drivers choosing the 3. These are rear-drive cars, though all-wheel drive is available, and even the optional automatic transmission is tuned for crisp, sporty shifting. Handling response is sharp and precise, and braking capability is best in class. The base engine in the 328s, BMW's trademark 3.0-liter straight six, is more than powerful enough for brisk acceleration and a sinfully good time. The upgrade twin-turbo six in the 335s is one of the most viscerally satisfying engines in production.

The four-door 3 Series sedan is most familiar, and among the most passenger friendly. The Sports Wagon adds substantial cargo space and utility. It's great for couples or families who often bring the dog, though it isn't available with the twin-turbo engine.

The 328i and 335i Convertibles might be the sexiest 3s, with their fully automatic, one-button folding hardtop. With the top up, the convertible is nearly as solid and quiet as the coupe. The tradeoff, aside from the substantial price increase, is that the convertible seats four and has very little trunk space.

The two-door 3 Series coupes are the sportiest. The firmer sport suspension, optional with other body styles, comes standard on the coupe, and these are the lightest cars in the line. They seat four, like the convertible, but they'll appeal to those who want sporting capability something like a sports car's but need a reasonable back seat and decent-sized trunk.

The emphasis on sporty driving shouldn't put anyone off. Even with the firmest suspension, the ride in all 3 Series models remains reasonably supple. There's room inside for young families or four adults for a night out, in well-designed, nicely finished interiors.

The 3 Series offer gizmos you'd expect in larger, full-on luxury sedans. Those powerful engines are also efficient, and EPA mileage ratings go as high as 28 mpg Highway. Exterior …
Hide Full Review

Retail Price

$41,200 MSRP / Window Sticker Price
Engine 3.0L I-6
MPG 16 City / 25 Hwy
Seating 5 Passengers
Transmission 6-spd man w/OD
Power 300 @ 5800 rpm
Drivetrain all wheel
Smart Buy Program is powered by powered by TrueCar®
Autoblog Advertisement