What’s new?
2008’s 3 Series will see few changes after the introduction of two new body styles. The most notable change is the introduction of the 335xi coupe. This adds all-wheel drive and turbocharging to the turbocharged 3 Series 2-door. Sedans and wagons equipped with the six-speed automatic and Sport Package can now be upgraded with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Convertibles remain the same.
Edmunds
The 2008 BMW 3 Series is a great vehicle that sets the bar for luxury, driving pleasure, and refinement in four luxury segments. Its high price is the only thing that will make you stop.
Overview of the vehicle
The BMW 3 Series has been the standard against which all entry-level luxury cars have been measured over the past decade. Few have managed to achieve the former. Even when it happens, the Bavarian classic has remained unsurpassed. The addition of a powerful twin-turbo engine, as well as fully-up-to-date coupes and convertible models, made the 2008 BMW 3 Series even more impressive. The 2008 BMW 3 Series remains largely unchanged, and despite intense competition, maintains its benchmark status.
A 3 Series is a great choice if you are looking for a luxury entry-level car. There are four body styles to choose from, as well as two engines and two transmissions. You also have the option of all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. You can also equip the BMW 3 in a range of performance- and luxury-oriented options. This BMW is a remarkable combination of driving proficiency and driving ease, regardless of its configuration. Despite its increased weight and reduced structural rigidity, the convertible BMW still retains much of the 3’s driving skills.
Edmunds.com has conducted a number of comparison tests over the past year to determine that the 3 Series is the best dog in the pound, especially the 335 and the turbocharged Inline-6. Infiniti G35 Sport was ranked above the 335i sedan in a single test. However, this was due to the large price premium the Bimmer commanded. The 3 Series’s price is its biggest disadvantage. A fully loaded 335i sedan with all the options can cost $50,000, while the convertible costs $60,000. It’s not “entry level”.
Infiniti G35/G37 and the Cadillac CTS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4 or Volvo C70 are all very appealing alternatives. Many of these vehicles deliver a level of driving enjoyment that is both enjoyable and rewarding for many. The 2008 BMW 3 Series is still the standard. It offers a remarkable combination of handling, ride quality and performance. It’s also very fuel-efficient. This is our top pick for an entry-level luxury vehicle.
Performance and mpg
2008 BMW 328i, 328xi models are powered by a 3.0-liter Inline-6 engine that produces 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter inline-6 engine powering the 335i, 328xi and 335xi is heavily modified and produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft torque. The standard gearbox is a 6-speed manual, while an optional six-speed automatic is available. The turbocharged 3 Series coupe and sedan raced to 60 mph in less than five seconds, which is about the same time as the M3. The 335xi and 335i, which are heavier, run a little slower. The 328i should be within the middle-6 second range. This is not too bad.
The 3 Series is still fuel efficient despite its powerful power plants. The 328 achieves 17-18 mpg in cities and 25-28 on the highway depending on the body style, transmission, and drivetrain. The rear-drive 335i gets a 17/26 MPG rating, regardless of transmission.
Safety
The standard safety equipment for the 2008 BMW 3 Series is antilock disc brakes. Dynamic brake control, stability control, and run-flat tires. It also includes front-seat side airbags as well as full-length side curtain airbags. Although the convertible does not have side curtains, the standard front side airbags reach up to the head and there are pop-up rollover hoops. The stability control system incorporates several features that improve brake performance. It wipes the brake rotors periodically when the windshield wipers have been used (wet brakes won’t stop as well), and tightens the pads to the brake rotors if the driver suddenly lifts off the accelerator. This increases brake responsiveness.
The sedan and wagon were awarded four stars each for frontal collision protection, and five stars each for side protection in crash testing by the government. Both the sedan and the convertible were rated “Good” in frontal-offset crash testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The IIHS side crash test gave the sedan a rating of “Good,” and the convertible a rating of “Marginal”.
Driving
You can’t go wrong with any of the available engines in the 2008 BMW 3 Series. Although the standard, normally aspirated engine has a lower torque output, it is still capable of moving the car well and getting better mileage. The twin-turbo engine offers the same acceleration as the M3 high-performance model.
The 3 Series’ exceptional suspension, steering, and brakes will keep you entertained on twisty 2-lane highways, no matter what model you choose. This car is more than just a solid vehicle for navigating around turns. It communicates well with drivers and inspires confidence, no matter what type of driving. The 3 Series is a great long-distance cruiser because it offers both a comfortable ride and quiet cabin.
Interior
The interiors of the 3 Series offer a subtle display of luxury. Although the interior is a little plain, it places a lot of emphasis on the driver’s comfort and involvement through things like supportive seats and clear analog gauges. The materials are of high quality and the build quality is excellent. Even
