The nailed-to-the-road driving dynamic of the Sport Suspension equipped 330i isn't accompanied by a bone-jarring ride, in fact the 330i is quite civilized

The tonal quality of BMW's 3.0-litre inline 6-cylinder was intoxicating as it spun the 330i's tachometer from idle to its 7,000 rpm redline. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

when it comes to managing road decay, typical of urban driving. Although it's no Lexus over the rough stuff, it's not likely to generate a line-up at the local chiropractic office either.

In addition to a firm but endurable ride, the 330i houses its occupants in a vault-like cabin substantially free of annoying road and wind noise. The two main auditory sources in my tester were rich in tone, delightful and satisfying beyond wonderment. The first source of ear-pleasing pleasure came with the push of a dash-mounted button. Ah yes, the tonal quality of BMW's 3.0-litre (182 cu in)

A total of 255-horsepower and 220 foot-pounds of torque goes down to the rear wheels. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

inline 6-cylinder was intoxicating as it spun the 330i's tachometer from idle to its 7,000 rpm redline; this robust-six revs with a refinement meant for turbine engines.

BMW has resisted the global trend to migrate to a "V" configuration with its 6-cylinder powerplants, and I for one applaud their steadfastness. Instead they have refined and re-refined their inline-configured engines to the point of perfection; at least that's how it feels when one's right foot sinks to the carpet unleashing 255-horsepower to the rear wheels. Along with Major League ponies, 220 foot-pounds of torque is available at a sweet-and-low 2,750 rpm. Translated, that means gobs and gobs of low-end torque.