There has never been a 3-Series generation as good as this one. Of course, we say that every time a new generation is launched, but it does happen in the automotive world that a company blows it and creates a vehicle that's worse than the previous model.

And yes, the new M3 is a pretty slick machine, with mind-blowing performance and looks to kill. But let's face it; we're not living in California or in Arizona, where winter doesn't really exist and there are more open roads. That's why for us Canadians, a 335xi makes better sense.

There has never been a 3-Series generation as good as this one.

Marvel of an engine
The twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 that's found under the hood of the 335 versions (as well as the 135 and the 535) is a magnificent piece of engineering. With 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, the latter peaking at just 1,400 rpm, the car offers blistering performance, all the time. From a standstill, the 335xi reaches 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, and that was performed on a partially icy surface.

Furthermore, you get your choice of a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed auto with manual mode. Opt for the Sport Package, you also get wheel-mounted paddle shifters with the automatic.

And despite all that power, the engine remains a fuel miser. Okay, it requires premium unleaded just like most luxury vehicles, but our average of 11.8 L/100 km is pretty good considering that we're often driving with the pedal to the metal.

Predictable handling
During a day on Mécaglisse's winter test track, we had a ball flinging the 335xi sideways and drifting through tight bends. The xDrive system is rear-wheel biased but sends power to the front wheels when the rear ones are spinning.

During the acceleration tests, though, the car was nervous and so were we, white-knuckling our way to speed while the DSC traction and stability-control system was frantically seeking adherence. During a snowstorm, though, and driving at a more reasonable clip, xDrive helps the car keep a straight line and give the driver a sense of safety; you'll be barrelling down the left lane while others are slipping and sliding in the right one.

Excellent handling has always been a BMW trademark, and this 3-Series shines accordingly. The car shows great composure during cornering and the steering is surgically precise. We just wish the ride wasn't as stiff and painful; even with 17-inch winter tires (our test car has the Sport package while normally includes ultra low-profile 18-inchers), the 335xi is a little too brutal for our tastes.

The car shows great composure during cornering and the steering is surgically precise.

Cockpit that fits like a glove
If you've read about 3-Series models before, or sat in one, you probably already know that we're talking about a small car here. The cockpit suits me fine, but it's a little tight for some of my colleagues' tastes. The back seat is especially cramped, as there is not much foot space under the front seats cushions.

Fit and finish inside the car is very good, and I really like the color combination of our tester's interior trim and seats. The spring-loaded cupholders that pop out of the dash are very convenient; most cars have them in the center console and are in the way.

Fit and finish inside the car is very good, and I really like the color combination of our tester's interior trim and seats.

Competition
The BMW 335xi 2008 has a base price of $52,500 and our test car includes the $3,950 Premium Package, the $2,000 Sport Package, for a grand total of $58,450. That's really expensive.

Here are some other all-wheel drive compact and mid-size sedans that can measure up to the 335xi:

Audi A4 3.2 quattro, 255 hp, $49,500
Cadillac CTS4 DI, 304 hp, $45,725
Infiniti G35x, 306 hp, $43,540
Lincoln MKZ AWD, 263 hp, $41,499
Mercedes-Benz C350 4MATIC, 268 hp, $50,100
Saab 9-3 Aero XWD, 280 hp, $46,330
Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B, 243 hp, $44,995

The BMW is the costliest of the bunch.

Conclusion
The 335xi is a fine little car that offers a high level of performance and very reasonable fuel consumption. It's a blast to drive and will probably make your neighbours jealous.

However, this BMW has some tough competition now, and has a hard time justifying its lofty sticker price. You'll save almost 10 grand by downgrading to the 328xi, giving up 70 horses and some equipment, but the trade-off is a ride that's a little less harsh.

But if you're looking for a capable speed machine, get a 335xi, save $15,000 over an M3, and use it without restrain during all four seasons.

The 335xi is a fine little car that offers a high level of performance and very reasonable fuel consumption.