3 Series Models

Here is the range of 3 Series models for ’05. Click on a link for more info:

• 325i Sedan, the most accessible model; powered by the 2.5-liter, 184-hp engine. Includes SULEV and South African (manufactured) models.
• 325xi Sedan, an all-wheel-drive version of the 325i sedan.
• 325i Sports (Touring) Wagon, a 5-door that adds space and versatility while maintaining its sedan counterpart’s innate sportiness. Includes SULEV model.
• 325xi Sports (Touring) Wagon, with all-wheel drive to make it an ideal vehicle for winter sports activities.
• 325Ci Coupe, in 2-door format for added sport and elegance; yet also practical thanks to its standard split folding rear seats.
• 325Ci Convertible, with all of BMW’s contemporary design and engineering for style, enjoyment and safety in an open-bodied vehicle.
• 330i Sedan, with the same profile as the 325i Sedan but more power (3.0 liters, 225 hp), additional standard equipment and distinctive design features inside and out.
• 330xi Sedan, the 330i Sedan with all-wheel drive.
• 330Ci Coupe, adding a larger engine and further upmarket features to the sport and elegance of the 325Ci Coupe.
• 330Ci Convertible, top of the line, with standard fully automatic power softtop and leather interior.
• M3 Coupe, BMW's ultimate performance 3 Series model, with a 330hp engine.
• M3 Convertible, the top-down version of the BMW M3.

3 Series Soul

As impressive as many of its individual features and options are, the heart of the 3 Series’ appeal remains its unique concept:

• Each model is compact and tightly dimensioned, with short overhangs, a relatively long wheelbase, and wheels/tires that fill out their fender openings with serious road adhesion.
• Every model is powered by an acclaimed inline 6-cylinder engine that delivers not merely strong, but also aesthetically satisfying performance. 325 models’ 2.5-liter unit generates 184 horsepower; the 3.0-liter of 330 models delivers 225 hp.
• All models offer a choice of manual or STEPTRONIC automatic transmission, the latter with selectable Sport and Manual modes. All rear-drive models can be equipped with BMW’s innovative 6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (except 330i with performance package).
• For optimum handling, all 3 Series models employ rear-wheel drive – except the three “xi” models, with full time all-wheel drive to enhance traction while maintaining BMW’s handling edge.
• 3 Series suspension, a unique combination of strut-type front and multi-link rear systems, also contributes to outstanding handling and roadability.
• All models have 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes, with larger dimensions for the higher-powered 330 models.
• Like all BMWs, the 3 Series vehicles are meticulously built and finished and comprehensively equipped. Every 3 Series interior exudes quality; with the available leather upholstery and wood trim, it exudes luxury as well.

Safety Features

The 3 Series incorporates an array of safety features that has contributed to widespread recognition of these vehicles’ excellent occupant protection. Among many impressive test results, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety rated the 3 Series sedan its Best Pick rating in offset crash testing. Features include –

• "Intelligent lightweight" body structure, designed for effective energy management in a crash impact without excess weight.
• Optimized steering-column design for outstanding protection of the driver, again without excess weight.
• Head Protection System (HPS) in closed-body models: BMW’s pioneering inflatable tubular cushion, anchored in the windshield pillar and roof, deploys to afford protection of front-seat occupants’ heads – particularly in side impacts, but also in mixed-direction collisions.
• 2-stage "smart" front-impact airbags.
• Front-seat side-impact airbags, standard in all models.
• Rear-seat side-impact airbags, optional in all models.
• Rollover Protection System (RPS) in Convertibles: An independent module behind each of the two rear-seat passengers’ heads deploys rollbars in case of an impending vehicle rollover.
• Height-adjustable front safety belts with automatic tensioners and force limiters. In the Convertibles, the belts are integrated with the seats and are power-adjusted along with the head restraints.
• Interlocking door anchoring system for side impacts.
• Battery Safety Terminal, automatically severing the high-current connection between the battery and starter cable to reduce the likelihood of fire after a severe crash impact.

Standard security features include –

• Coded Driveaway Protection, a rolling-code immobilizer system proven to reduce the probability of theft
• A central locking system with double-lock anti-theft feature to hinder the opening of doors even if a thief breaks a window
• Pathway Lighting, which via the headlight flasher switch activates the headlights and interior lights for 40 seconds.

BMW Assist

In the recent past, BMW Assist – a comprehensive program of safety- and convenience-oriented customer services – has been included as part of the available BMW On-board Navigation System when combined with the BMW cellular phone. Now these services, in enhanced form, are offered as a stand-alone option or as part of the Premium Package.

The in-vehicle equipment for BMW Assist includes GPS technology, an embedded wireless communication system, “SOS” and “wrench” buttons that in the 3 Series are located at the bottom of the interior rearview mirror. Vehicle occupants may request Emergency or Roadside Assistance services simply by pressing these buttons; the BMW Assist system then transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center. A response specialist will then speak with the occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and requested. Deployment of an airbag automatically activates BMW Assist as well.

A year’s subscription to BMW Assist is included with the option; after the initial year, there is an annual fee. In addition to the safety-related benefits, subscribers can call a toll-free 800 number to avail themselves of BMW Assist Concierge services, from travel planning to dining reservations, shopping assistance and event tickets. The system can be upgraded to hands-free calling via BMW center installation of the optional handset.

Like all current models, each 3 Series vehicle is covered by BMW’s 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile Full Maintenance Program for customer convenience, peace of mind and economic benefit.

BMW and the Environment

BMW strives to produce its motor vehicles and other products with the utmost attention to environmental compatibility and protection. Integrated into the design and development of BMW automobiles are such criteria as:

• resource efficiency and emission control in production;
• environmentally responsible selection of materials;
• recyclability during production and within the vehicle; elimination of CFCs and hazardous materials in production; and
• continuing research into environmentally friendly automotive power sources.

Tangible results of these efforts include:

• the recycling of bumper cladding into other vehicle components;
• water-based paint color coats and powder clear coats;
• near-future availability of hydrogen-powered models; and
• various design and engineering elements that help make BMWs easier to dismantle at the end of their service life.