It was clear from the outset that the new
3-series is a driver's car through and
through, perhaps even more so than its
predecessor. That's not to say that the
3-series is raw and as focused as say a Lotus
Elise, but BMW has got the basics just so.
Take the steering; it is simply sublime, full
of feel and communication, but never
uncomfortably so. 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 automakers 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.