Cracking open the door of my tester revealed a completely new interior as well, featuring a dash design that is smoother and cleaner looking than before.

Cracking open the door of my tester revealed a completely new interior. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

In spite of its excellent functionality and tidier appearance, I don't find the 'new look' quite as appealing as the old. From my perspective it's not as sporty, nor is it quite as driver-oriented.  If not at the top of its game in dash design, BMW certainly is when it comes to seating. Thanks to hefty, power-adjustable side bolstering and firm cushioning the optional Sport perches in my tester hugged like an emotional relative after a snoot full of distilled courage. They were also tremendously supportive and comfortable over the long haul.

And long hauls are to be cherished in the 330i because that's when this Autobahn-bred compact sedan comes to life. It is remarkably stable and composed at high-speed, communicating to its driver with crystal-clarity as it absorbs twists and curves with ease and confidence. Engage in an evasive emergency maneuver and the 330i will dig its optional 18-inch rubber

BMW has been setting benchmarks with the handling characteristics of its 3-Series sedans and coupes over the years, and the 2006 330i is the culmination of that effort. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

deep into the pavement and toss itself in the exact chosen direction without any unsettling oversteer or unpredictable yaw.

BMW has been setting benchmarks with the handling characteristics of its 3-Series sedans and coupes over the years, and the 2006 330i is the culmination of that effort. It has a near perfect 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution to compliment its independent aluminum front suspension and five-link rear setup. Overseeing the entire chassis arrangement is the automaker's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) technology, which intervenes if a loss of vehicle control is imminent - and believe me, getting there requires pushing the thoroughbred to extreme thresholds.