The 2009 BMW 3 Series Sedan and Sport Wagon stay ahead of the pack with new technologies, enhanced ergonomics and the introduction of the BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance, officially designated the 335d Sedan.
Imagine the frustration of sport sedan makers worldwide who launch new challenges every year only to find the BMW 3 Series securely out in front once again. Model year 2009 should be no different since the 3 Series adds style inside and out, introduces an ergonomically optimized iDrive controller, further develops its iconic 3.0-liter inline six, offers xDrive AWD in three models and introduces a new, comprehensive safety structure. All this and the debut of the BMW 335d with a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder advanced diesel with “clean-as-a-whistle” BluePerformance emissions technology!
For 2009, the BMW 3 Series consists of the 328i Sedan and Sports Wagon; 328i xDrive Sedan and Sports Wagon; 335i, 335i xDrive and 335d Sedans. What hasn’t changed and likely will never change is the 3 Series formula: rear- or all-wheel drive, balance front and rear, precise steering and the finely tuned suspension of the “Ultimate Driving Machine.”
Subtle styling changes mark the 2009 3 Series. Styling has been used to create the appearance of additional width even though the 3 is no wider than before. We think it adds aggression to the stance. The headlights get a mild makeover that now incorporates daytime running lamps and offers xenon adaptive lighting. The side sills and rocker panels seem to emphasize a lower ride height, again with no actual change. Again, we see “attitude” in the styling tweak. At the rear, the bumper, taillamps and trunklid are reshaped to look more athletic. The L-shaped taillamps get new LED lighting sources for added cool and visibility. If the rear looks a bit wider, it isn’t just a styling trick. There is a slight increase in rear track, and it seems to complete the “attitude adjustment” for the 2009 3 Series.
While the 3 Series interiors receive updated materials and surface textures, the big news is in the iDrive control and display system. There’s a new, higher definition 8.8-inch control display with improved and simplified menus. The iDrive is simpler in operation, too, since separate selection buttons have been added for the radio, CD and navigation/telecommunications functions.
Under the banner of “BMW Efficient Dynamics,” the new 335d Sedan rolls into the showroom with an exciting combination of high performance and high fuel efficiency. The 3.0-liter, twin-turbo inline six-cylinder diesel engine's air supply uses a small turbo for instant response at low speeds and a larger turbo for brisk acceleration at higher speeds. BMW BluePerformance emission controls use particulates filtration and a urea-based exhaust after-treatment system. Urea replenishment is tied to the same schedule for oil changes.
The 2009 335d may be the very first high-performance economy car with its 265 horses and 425 lb/ft of torque. It’s good for zero-to-60 mph in six seconds flat with the standard six-speed automatic transmission.
BMW knows that performance and safety go hand-in-hand. The design of the 3 Series includes high-strength steel for rigidity and special deformation zones for the protection of passengers in the event of a crash. All the expected passive safety systems are found in the 3 Series including the LATCH system for anchoring child safety seats.
Space and your willingness to read about the myriad improvements and updates to the 2009 BMW 3 Series suggest the best way to appreciate the new and improved 3 is to see it and drive it. After all, the only acceptable proof of excellence is in the actual performance of a car. We confidently predict you’ll be impressed and perhaps obsessed with the BMW 3 Series. We are!
