A lot of anticipation surrounded the re-make of BMW's lauded 3-Series. Its design was quite successfully kept under wraps during development. Fears

Yes, there is certainly value in the 330i, especially when factoring in its high residual or resale rates, but you pay a healthy price for it up front. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

that it might suffer the fate of the 7-Series redesign kept many Beemer purists up at night. Fortunately those fears were never founded; the 2006 3-Series is aggressively styled, but within acceptable parameters. What may now be sustaining insomnia is the excitement kindled by the outstanding performance characteristics of the prodigious 330i. It is a sedan that begs to be driven, and driven hard while pleasing all senses human, except possibly the sense of economics. Yes, there is certainly value in the 330i, especially when factoring in its high residual or resale rates, but you pay a healthy price for it up front. However, for those with the means and desire the 2006 330i won't disappoint.

Specifications (330i sedan):

Price Range (MSRP): $47,900 - $64,385
Body Type: 4-door sedan
Layout: front engine, RWD
Engine: 255-hp, 220 lb-ft of torque, 3.0L, 24-valve, DOHC I-6
Transmission: 6-spd manual gearbox (optional 6-spd auto with manual-mode)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
Curb Weight (min - max): 1,550 - 1,565 kg (3,417 - 3,450 lbs)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h, 0-62 mph): 6.5 seconds (330i, manual)
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.4 / 7.0 L/100 km
Aerodynamic Drag Coefficient: 0.30
Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
Direct Competitors: Acura TL, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS, Chrysler 300C, Infiniti G35, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS, Mercedes C-Class, Saab 9-3, Volvo S60
Web Site: www.bmw.ca