DriveTech

2007 BMW 335i is for serious drivers!

I would like to start by congratulating to Chip Palid, the new general sales manager at Brecht BMW. He has some exciting things planned for anyone buying a new BMW or Mini Cooper from Brecht BMW and Mini.

And a special thanks to Palid for letting me test drive the BMW 335i. All I can say is - yeee haaa! It has twin Turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinders that will mash you into the back of your seat under medium acceleration (OK, maybe heavy acceleration). That's all backed by the optional paddle-shifting six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission - a great combination.

BMW has always been noted for its superb sound system and the c335i didn't fail me. The audio system consists of an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with a Logic7 system that includes digital sound processing and surround sound simulation as well as being satellite ready.

Driving to Alpine went way too quick and what a ride it was. I took the back way through Ramona just to use what BMW gave us drivers. If you are a "driver" then quit messing around with all the other manufacturers that say their car is a driver's car and slip behind the wheel of the 335i. I would prefer the six-speed manual, but I must admit this car thinks like I do and that's truly scary.

This is an entry level BMW (believe it or not). But when you're looking for the best bang for your buck, the 335i delivers. I tested an "alpine white" four-door sedan. Want a coupe? Get in line and when you see the coupe, you'll understand. But what's wrong with two extra doors?

If I didn't know better, I would think BMW built the seats just for me, especially the driver seat. It has eight adjustments for the driver and front passenger plus a leather-wrapped, three-spoked steering wheel that tilts and telescopes. The center console is neat and tidy, although the hidden cup holders are for smaller cups and containers (no Big Gulps in this car). Why aren't the cup holders bigger? BMW doesn't want you to eat and drink in its cars. It wants you to drive them and I agree.

Another feature I really like is being able to put the BMW key fob in your pocket and walking up to the 335i, just open the door, push the start button and you're off and running. The backseat has just as much comfort, with a center armrest and plenty of headroom. The rear doors open wide enough for easy access or exit and the trunk is a good size for all your toys and groceries.

The engine package delivers 300 horsepower and 300 pound foot of torque at a very low 1,400 rpm. It gets 20 miles per gallon in the city and 29 MPG on the open road. The fine-tuned suspension consists of double pivot type front suspension with aluminum components up front and a five-link system in the rear. Add twin tube gas shocks and upgrade to 18-inch tire and wheel package (what my tester had), throw in speed sensitive variable assist power steering, four-wheel disc brakes, BMW's race-tested dynamic stability control, dynamic brake control, brake fade compensation, brake stand-by, brake drying, start-off assist and dynamic traction control and you're off to the Q for a day of Solo One racing against the clock. (You must buy the car before going to the Q. Sorry).

It's funny how I mentally compare everything I road test to BMW. In fact, I do it unconsciously, so that tells me BMW has hit the sweet spot when it comes to driving and that goes for the whole line of BMWs.

I admit I mentioned a few features on my 335i that you may not understand, but that's why Brecht hires automotive enthusiasts instead of salesmen. So if you do have any questions concerning the 335i, give Dusan Kurta a call at (760) 291-2821.

Normally, I list all the safety features BMW gives you, but when you're the leader in driving and safety - why bother? The 335i is probably the best bang for your buck, starting out at $38,700 (depending on how you accessorize).

Brecht BMW is in the Escondido Auto Park, so stop by to check out the full line of new and certified used BMWs in stock. One more thing - there's something good about a dealer that races what it sells, so check out the 335i race car.

Next week, I'll test drive a vehicle from Rorick Buick-Cadillac.