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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 BMW 3 Series

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Overview

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2009 BMW 3 Series Review

By KBB.com Editors

Now in its fifth generation, BMW's 3 Series carries on as one of the world's premier driving machines. Both Sedan and Sports Wagon variants are offered in two trims: the 328 and 335, with the later powered by a twin-turbocharged engine. Even the more affordable members of the family – rear-wheel-drive 328i Sedan and Sports Wagon and all-wheel-drive 328xi Sedan and Sports Wagon – offer an impressive roster of comfort and convenience touches in addition to their crisply-tuned suspension packages, standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), powerful anti-lock brakes (ABS) and handling characteristics that continue to win rave reviews from driving fans everywhere. New for 2009 is the addition of a diesel-powered 3 Series, the 335d Sedan.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're a genuine driving enthusiast who still believes that there's just something special about German automotive engineering, virtually any selection from the 328i and 328xi menu could be just what you're looking for. Even at its entry level, the 3 Series package provides an engaging mix of character, quality and performance.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you prefer a suspension tuned more towards ride comfort than control, want a rear seat with lots of legroom or need a spacious trunk, the 3 Series may be less attractive than some of its European or Japanese competitors – although the Sports Wagon does offer impressive cargo room even with the rear seat up.

What's New for 2009

The 3-Series Sedan and Wagon receive a slight exterior and interior freshening, with a new front end, revised rear end and a more dynamic profile. Also new are an improved iDrive controller and the addition of a turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine.

Driving the 3 Series

Driving Impressions True to tradition, even the entry-level 3 Series offers a full measure of BMW's legendary driving DNA. Fortified with abundant power and torque, both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants, in either...

body style and with either transmission, are plenty fast from zero to 60 mph and easily capable of coping with any kind of traffic situation. There's a precise feel to the steering and the well-sorted suspension provides exceptional confidence through even the most challenging corners. While some may find the ride a tad too taut – particularly when fitted with the optional Sport Package – we think the handling advantages more than offset any minor comfort tradeoff. BMW's excellent xDrive all-wheel-drive system also makes dealing with inclement weather considerably less stressful.

Favorite Features

Start-off Assistant
Order a 3 Series with a manual transmission and you'll enjoy the benefits of this subtle but effective helper that automatically applies the brakes for a few seconds whenever you're stopped on a hill to help prevent the car from rolling backwards while you engage first gear.

Optional Active Steering
This high-tech adjunct to the standard power steering varies the effective turning ratio to correspond with vehicle velocity, making it easier to maneuver at low speeds while enhancing stability under freeway cruising conditions.

2009 BMW 3 Series Details

Interior

Although slightly roomier than any of its predecessors, the 2009 BMW 3 Series remains a compact sedan that provides better accommodations in its firm but comfortably supportive front bucket seats than in the rear bench – where six-footers are apt to feel a bit confined. The clean, elegant look is highlighted by standard leatherette upholstery set off by Burl Walnut, Poplar Natural Wood or aluminum trim. Legible white-on-black instruments and a multifunction steering wheel on a tilt and telescoping column reinforce its driver-centric character, while models fitted with the optional navigation package get an alternative "double-wave" dash to accommodate the central video display. The new iDrive controller now features preset keys to call up menus for the navigation, radio, CD and telecommunications.

Exterior

A relatively long wheelbase coupled with short front and rear overhangs, plus a slight wedge shape, gives the compact 3 Series a dynamic flair that reflects common styling cues with the larger 5 Series and 7 Series, elements that are further reinforced by the signature twin-kidney grilles. New headlamp and taillight treatments for 2009 signal the direction of future BMW sedan styling, adding more curvaceous features and softer lines. The 17- and 18-inch wheels that are part of the optional Sport Package impart an even more aggressive stance than the standard 16-inch alloy rims. All 3 Series models are fitted with extended-mobility run-flat tires, so no spare is included.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

In keeping with its performance heritage, the 2009 BMW 3 Series emphasizes precise handling by augmenting its well-tuned suspension with the comprehensive Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. DSC interfaces with the car's powerful anti-lock brakes (ABS) as well as with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) on rear-wheel-drive models or Hill Descent Control (HDC) on all-wheel-drive vehicles. In addition to the expected power assists, the 3 Series offers numerous comfort and convenience touches, including cruise control, 10-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system and a single (Sedans) or dual (Sports Wagons) power moonroof. All models feature run-flat tires, dual front and front-side airbags plus BMW's front Active head restraints.

Optional Equipment

Key single extras include a six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission, eight-way power front seats with driver memory, corner-following Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Comfort Access keyless entry and start, distance-maintaining Active Cruise Control, Active Power Steering that varies effort and ratio with vehicle speed, a navigation system with real-time traffic information and iDrive integrated multifunction controller, Dakota Leather upholstery, Logic7 Sound System, HD radio and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The Cold Weather Package includes headlamp washers and heated front seats, while a Premium Package brings leather plus a subscription to BMW Assist that includes real-time help and concierge service at the push of a button. The Sport Package nets tauter suspension, sport seats and 17-inch wheels and tires.

Under the Hood

Although the 328i and 335i share the same 3.0-liter engine displacement, how BMW tweaks each engine makes all the difference in the world. In the 328 models, an ultra-smooth 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine makes a respectable 230 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. In the 335, twin turbochargers up the output to 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Another welcome touch is BMW's sophisticated Double VANOS variable valve-timing system that bolsters low- and mid-range responsiveness while helping make the engine even more efficient. The turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel features BMW AdBlue urea injection, which allows it to remain emission compliant in all 50 states. Generating a massive 425 pound-feet of torque, the 335d can sprint to 60 miles per hour in six seconds and is reported to achieve around 36 miles per gallon during highway driving.

3.0-liter in-line 6
230 horsepower @ 6500 rpm
200 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/28 (Sedan), 17/27 (Sports Wagon, manual), 18/27 (Sports Wagon, automatic), 17/25 (AWD)

3.0-liter in-line 6 Twin-turbocharged
300 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
300 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1400-5000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/26, 16/25 (manual, 4WD), 17/25 (automatic, 4WD)}

3.0-liter in-line 6 Twin-turbocharged Diesel
265 horsepower @ 4200 rpm
425 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/36

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2009 BMW 3 Series Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.8

Out of 10

Based on 890 Ratings for the 2006 - 2011 models.

Review this car

Value

8.8/10

Quality

9.1/10
Reliability

9.0/10

Performance

9.3/10
Comfort

8.9/10

Styling

9.3/10

I LOVE this car and I'm a car person...

By Carolyn A (NC) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 27,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "great looking, fun to drive"

Cons: "expensive, 93 octane gas only"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is such an amazing car. I drive with the top down as many days of the year as I can. I love accelerating through curves and I never feel the car get away from me. This is the safest I've ever felt in a car. I get compliments every day, literally, on the looks of this car. The down side of this car is that it is not very comfortable on a trip longer than an hour or 90 minutes. Maybe it's just me. All in all, fantastic car."

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My Bimmer

By podoc19 (NY) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: Not Rated
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Very nice car that is enjoyable 2 be in & to drive"

Cons: "cup holders stink, no spare"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I got this car after loosing my car to hurricane Sandy. I loved the car I had & it took me a while to start liking this car but now that I have had it for a couple of months I must say I love this car. The only thing that I don't find so great is the acceleration. It also takes a while to figure out the i drive system. I would highly recommend getting the i drive, premium sound system & believe it or not the heated steering wheel is well worth the money."

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Awesome car

By KMT (MA) on Thursday, May 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 41,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Blast to drive, Great exceleration"

Cons: "firm ride from run flat,"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have owned this car for two years. It is the most enjoyable car I have ever owned. The handling is unsurpassed. Fit and Function is great in every way. If I had any gripes at all it would be the firm ride from the run flat tires. Otherwise this is a fantastic vehicle."

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Sexy car!

By Pinkiesurfer (AZ) on Thursday, May 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 68,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "everything"

Cons: "automatic seat belt arm is annoying"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I am a BMW fanatic. I have owned 8 BMWs in the last 12 years! I have had the wagon, 3 series convertible, 3 series sedans, 5 series sedans, X5s, and 3 series coupe. Of all the BMWs I have owned, this is the model I have kept the longest. Mine is black with chrome wheels, and it is a really hot looking car, and I never get tired of it! It looks amazing! It is really sporty and fun to drive. Mine is a manual tranny, and really takes curves well at high speeds, and has a great amount of pep for a 4 cylinder. In AZ it gets really hot, but the AC in this car is amazing, and I don't regret getting a black exterior, black interior car. It cools off really quick. The only annoying thing with this car is the seat belts. The electric arm that pushes the belt forward to make it easy to reach is a terrible design. But other than that, this car is perfect, and I wouldn't change a thing. I love it!! If you are thinking of buying this car, DO IT! You will love it! The stick-shift model is a lot of fun, and really makes for a great driving experience."

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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Almost 8 and still reliable, fast, and fun

By Bebop (VA) on Wednesday, May 01, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 63,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 8/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Handling, steering, pickup, mpg, reliability,"

Cons: "Cost of dealer service."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"325i. Had it almost 8 years, bought new. Other than maintenance nothing to spend money on. Great pick up. Nice engine sound. Handles wonderfully in curves. Interior has held together with no problems. The stock base stereo was and still is not great sounding. I get 32 mpg on hwy for trips from dc to buffalo or NYC. My car doesn't have lots of extras so I kept the cost somewhat down. But the leather seats and seat warmers are great, I got used to the drink holders. And paying extra for the folding rear seat was certainly needed. But, hey BMW, stop charging for something that every other car has for no charge. I found a good mechanic so stopped going to BMW dealer for excessively priced service and standard dealer ripoffs. I have the six speed manual and its fun! I bought it for the fun of driving and it delivers. I really also like the adjusting headlights for turns. I didn't buy it to be a luxury car, a quiet car, a super smooth riding car, etc. if I had I may have been disappointed but that's why there's Volvo."

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Best buy

By Hert (GA) on Sunday, April 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 38,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great handling, smooth ride and comfortable."

Cons: "Price of it in USA is way higher than Elsewhere."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Purchased it when I was stationed in Germany . Bought it brand new only 10 miles when it arrived from the BMW factory. For 36000 dollars I'd recommend it to anyone."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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See all 890 reviews