Junior Executive
BMW's 328 is the entry-point into sport-sedan paradise

Picture the dilemma of the BMW engineers reworking their 3 series – already one of the most respected and mimicked sedans in the world, they still had to revise and improve upon an already worthy design.

The newest “threes” don’t disappoint. Released last year, the series is already garnering high praise. Car and Driver, among others, rates it as one of the 10 best cars sold in the U.S. And for good reason. The Beemer has characteristics that win points with automotive enthusiasts and ordinary drivers alike.

One is an understated but powerful body design. The car exudes a sporty character bred within with its curved, athletic sensuousness. But this beauty is more than skin deep – it’s strong and weight efficient (translating to improvements in stability and collision safety.) The redesign reinforced roof pillars and door sills to create what BMW calls a “safety cage” plus an impressive airbag supplemental restraint system.

The new chassis design improves the handling and ride. The front engine-rear drive arrangement delivers a near perfect 50-50 weight distribution. Paired with the redesigned and refined strut and multi-link rear suspension and rack-and-pinion, variable assist steering system integrate into feeling of control, comfort and responsive sophistication. The standard traction control is an added bonus of security. BMW seems to have mastered the art of suspension tuning – translating just enough of the “road feel” to the driver without making the ride harsh and uncomfortable.

Engines are what jazz a car buff’s interest and the one here won’t disappoint. The 328i comes with a 2.8 liter inline six cylinder, producing 193 horsepower and and 206 bhp of torque. The six, though not the most powerful engine on the market, is turbine smooth, sweet sounding, efficient and responsive in the low and mid-ranges.

Ordinary folks should feel like professional drivers when sitting behind the wheel. The cars have the usual top notch BMW ergonomics – attractive and functionally designed instruments and controls exactly where they need to be. The seating is firm and supportive while the list of standard and optional luxury appointments, like a automatic climate control system and Harmon Kardon hi-fi stereo among other bells-and-whistles.

BMW has done a terrific job of evolving the small sport sedan to a new point in the automobile universe. From the original 2002, the newest mini BMW keeps moving the target for the competition and solidifies it as the benchmark for the industry.

Chris Taylor is a contributing writer to The Lane Report and an auto enthusiast.

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