Blog

BMW has released the first official pictures and data on the latest 3-Series coupe, and quickly brought to you by VehicleVoice and AutoPacific. The initial pictures show a terrific look for the new coupe, and the initial specification data suggest a great driving machine. We’ve sorted through some photos and information to give you a quick overview, but at BMW North America’s website, more information is available.

Available All-Wheel Drive and A New Engine: 300HP 335i
The biggest news for the coupe is a new engine, though the availability of all-wheel drive for the first time in 3-Series coupes is also significant. The 3-Series will launch in the States with three models: 335i, 328i, and 328xi.

The 335i features a 300HP twin-turbo version of the direct-injection 3.0L DOHC 24v 6-cylinder already available across the range. This is the launch application of the new engine, which is said to bring the extra power with only minimal fuel-economy penalties. The 328i and 328xi get the 230HP version of BMW’s 3.0L six. Standard transmission for both models is a six-speed manual, with a six-speed automatic optional and available with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The new 3-Series coupe comes standard with BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control, which can be switched off by the driver. The system incorporates electronic braking aids including Dynamic Braking Control (brake assist), a system for counteracting brake fade, a Dry Braking system that helps remove moisture from the brakes, a Start-Off Assistant for easier take-off on hills, and Brake Standby which positions the brakes closer to discs after a sudden lift off the accelerator.

The standard 335i and 328i continue as rear-drive vehicles, of course, and the 3-Series sports a 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution.
Distinct from Sedan, Inside and Out
Along with the unique roofline of the coupe, the two-door model has different headlights (xenon adaptive units with four corona rings are standard for the coupes), front air dam, and taillights. The coupe also sports a different hood, including a powerdome bulge indicating the sportier nature of this 3-Series, and the side-view mirrors have been redesigned.




Inside, there is seating for four instead of five, with a console between the rear-seat passengers. Compared with the sedan and wagon, the interior offers different color schemes but maintains the horizontal lines and basic layout of its siblings. The coupe gets special lighting effects, however, as well as a metallic trim for door handles, gearshift, and other elements drivers will touch frequently.



Sales September 2006
Stand in line and get ready to place your order. The first coupes are due in dealers this September.