The system has been recalibrated for greater agility and precision, with benefits also for cornering. The Sport line adds a few performance-oriented changes, as well. In addition, an extensive package of active safety components help the driver to avoid accidents or, if a collision is unavoidable, to minimize its consequences. Every effort has been made whenever possible to credit the sources. Finally, customers can also opt for a sports automatic version of this transmission, with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts as an upgrade with the Sport Line and M Sport package.
Bi-color, double-spoke design 18-inch light-alloy wheels provide the athletic looks to match. For comparison, the most efficient versions of the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class are rated 25 mpg, despite their lesser power. But does that ruin the car? A range of innovative technical features and exceptionally high internal efficiency allow this higher-performance unit, too, to combine powerful acceleration, strong mid-range sprinting and further reduced fuel consumption. The trunk lid is then unlocked and raised automatically, without hand contact. At the same time, these measures also help to ensure superior driving dynamics.
Soft-touch surfaces extend all the way down to the lowest door panels. I asked if they could fax the paperwork, send a driver or I could mail them a check. The M Sport trim level will bring a more aggressive front end with larger grille openings, M-badged wheels and flared rocker panels. The aluminum front fixed calipers bring a further reduction in unsprung masses. The cockpit is angled towards the driver by seven degrees. Innovative 8-speed automatic transmission: efficient power transmission and optimal ratios. Drivetrain Revolution The biggest news for the 2012 sedan is its improved drivetrains, including the 328i model's new engine, whose power and efficiency is better than that of the 2011 328i.
At the same time the driver can use the Driving Dynamics Control switch to vary the basic suspension characteristics between more comfortable or sportier settings. The large mounts and supports at the rear axle not only affect handling, they are also important for ensuring good acoustic insulation between the powertrain and suspension, particularly on vehicles with a powerful, high-torque engine. The trim on the lower air intakes also varies among the three. The high-gloss black B-pillar and window trim of the Modern Line blend smoothly with the satin aluminum trim elements at the front and rear. I like the idea because it's so unique, but it doesn't look like real wood.
On vehicles with automatic transmission, the shift points are altered to provide a significantly sportier drive. Intelligent lightweight design brings further reduction in fuel consumption. A new Eco Pro mode makes the accelerator resistant to accelerating unless you floor it and the transmission quick to upshift to more efficient gears. As is required of all 2012 and later models, the 3 Series includes antilock brakes and an electronic stability system with traction control. And an innovative and practical solution allows extremely convenient access inside. As for the numbers, the 335i proved marginally slower than expected in testing.
The new system helps the driver to maneuver safely and comfortably into parking spaces positioned parallel to the direction of travel. Bad gas, perhaps, or not enough break-in miles on the odometer 1365 at test time. Bear in mind that we're talking about the 328i here, not the more powerful 335i, whose drivetrain is unchanged versus 2011 but for the eight-speed automatic replacing the earlier six-speed. In the Cabin Speaking of getting away with things, how do cars like the 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class get away with imitation-leather seats in their base trim levels? Power is delivered to the rear wheels either via a standard 6-speed manual transmission or, optionally, via an 8-speed automatic — currently the only such unit in this segment. The trunk then automatically unlocks and swings open by spring force. Only the 3 Series' sedan version has been redone, entering its sixth generation in 328i and 335i guise.
A further warning is provided in the form of a discreet but unmistakable vibration of the steering wheel rim. Smooth shifting, low noise and efficient design are further qualities demanded in the premium segment. The driver-focused cockpit wraps around the driver and puts all the important controls within easy reach. A full range of colors are used to reproduce common road sign symbols as accurately as possible through the display graphics. Meanwhile, the effort rises gratifyingly as you turn in.
The new car belies its larger dimensions with an equipment equalized curb weight 88 lb 40 kilograms below that of its predecessor. You'd never know you were driving a four-cylinder, and definitely not a turbo four. There are ergonomic hits and misses. In this new version it offers an ideal combination of dynamism and comfort, and is the ideal basis for maximum driving enjoyment. The sporty and exclusive ambience of the interior is expressed by contrasting black and red accents.
Amongst other things, this meant that a lot of space was saved. The cooling effect of the directly injected fuel also results in a higher compression ratio than on port injection engines, bringing further efficiency improvements. At the same time, with its all-aluminum crankcase, this engine is lighter and more compact than a 6-cylinder engine of equivalent power. It also puts at the bottom of the tachometer a simple gauge to help you drive conservatively. As well as sportier or more comfortable drive settings, they can also opt for extra fuel efficiency. Behind the fully contoured front seats, 0.
A new face features headlights that puddle in toward the chrome-wrapped kidneys and a broad, blunt-faced front bumper that creates a sort of grimacing overbite into the lower grille. They comprise the familiar 6-cylinder inline engine and a new-generation 4-cylinder engine. The driver can therefore make full use of the strong low-end torque without sacrificing smoothness. Inattentiveness or misjudgment of the distance and speed of a vehicle approaching from behind can lead the driver into a critical situation when changing lanes. Advanced axle design further refined: five-link rear axle improves driving dynamics and comfort. Meanwhile, the Advanced Collision Notification function help occupants to limit the consequences of an crash, should the worst come to the worst. At smaller steering angles between zero and 100 degrees, on the other hand, the Sedan provides high standards of track-holding and straightline stability, and offers satisfyingly precise response to steering changes.