Finance a BMW

The BMW 3 Series represents 40% of BMW's vehicle output. It is, as one BMW executive said, "the core product for the brand." Not only is it important to BMW economically, but its status as an iconic car is crucial to the company's image. For many, it's the car that says, "I've made it," or at least, "I'm on my way."

The 3 Series represents success for BMW, the consumer, and all those who aspire to get behind the wheel of, arguably, the original and the best entry-level luxury sports sedan on the market. Consequently, BMW has a task on its hands when renewing the object of such affection and loyalty.

Which is why we're appropriately in Valencia, a city of 1.2-million people, where history is celebrated, but the old blends dramatically with the new. Here, the remains of medieval castles, ancient villas and the tradition of the conquistador form the backdrop for a cityscape that's being reinvented by local architects such as Santiago Calatrava, designer of some of the most breathtaking and imaginative buildings in Europe.

But what of the new car? Does it celebrate the past as well, or fire off in completely new directions? The good news for those who love the current 3 Series is that they should have nothing to fear - the car of their dreams has not been dramatically reinterpreted, and there is nothing about it that in any way offends the eye. That being said, the 2006 3 Series will quickly date its predecessor, as it is a thorough evolution of the model it replaces.

Visually, the most obvious styling element is the bold swade line that stretches the length of the car. Especially for lighter-colored vehicles, like silver and gray which are currently so fashionable, this feature catches the light from above and creates shadow below, elongating the car while suggesting its performance potential. It's a very effective styling element.

The decklid contains the hint of a spoiler, and the rear lights acquire a polygonal, angular shape. While the rear of the car may not look as broad as the outgoing model, it is tidier, more aerodynamic.

Similarly, the front receives a treatment that somewhat softens the aggressive expression of the current 3 Series. The glowering headlamps are not quite so threatening; the grille is a little fuller, a little friendlier.

Slightly bigger in all dimensions, the new 3 Series better accommodates its occupants and their belongings. The extra 49-millimetres of length, 35-mm of wheelbase and 29-mm of track translate to increased shoulder room, rear seat leg room, hip room and trunk space.

In total, the exterior preserves the character and identity of the model, while carefully massaging its current lines into the latest generation. If there's any criticism at all, it's that some might like to see the new look taken a little further, pushing the design a little more. But there is a coupe to come, and an M3 to consider (and BMW got an unwanted earful when the latest 7-Series was introduced in 2003 with its radical redesign).

In short, no one that I heard was complaining in Valencia.

The 2006 3 Series' combination of rear-wheel drive, chassis, suspension, drivetrain and body creates a supremely balanced car even in the most challenging conditions. Acceleration from the 255-hp engine is satisfying from any speed (0-100 km/h takes 6.3 seconds) and braking is equally rapid and sure. The aluminum suspension uses concepts carried over from the 5 Series and 7 Series, attached to a lightweight front axle and five-arm rear axle.

Steering is fast and precise, and at all times, even in extreme manoeuvres, the driver feels the car will do exactly what is asked of it. The handling and performance of the 330i is nothing short of brilliant, and continues to be the benchmark against which other cars of this type will be judged. In many ways it felt as nimble as a Mini Cooper S, such was its immediate and appropriate response to driver inputs.