Information Madness

Does this car still act as a good recipe for the entry level luxury buyer? The Audi A4, Mercedes Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G, Acura TL and Cadillac ATS are all there. The BMW 3 series does hold its place despite not commanding the same attention it once did. Yet, you have to remember that you are somewhat of an icon when you pick up a brand with sales dominance and reputation that have remained intact after almost six generations since 1975.

The bottom line is that this sedan is still the brand to show off to your peers. The new 3 Series of Bayerische Motor Werken have been launched at Barcelona. Three models came on view. They were 320d, 328i and 335i.

The 320d has an efficient dynamics turbo diesel engine. The 328i has a 241 horsepower engine with its new twin power turbo in-line four cylinders. This model will be on sale in America and Europe in the next three months.

The biggest news is that the 328i will be an eight speed automatic. Sixth gear is set at a 1:1 ratio while seventh and eighth are both fuel saving and highway cruising overdrive gears. It has a 7,200 RPM four cylinder engine with a self shifter.

BMW 3 Series is also planning a 335i automatic in sports plus mode that can accelerate more quickly than the manual version while giving slightly better fuel mileage. The new 3 Series cars will wind their way on any provincial highway in style.