The BMW 3 Series Sedan (F30) 335i Steptronic, produced from 2011 to 2015, represented a significant iteration of BMW’s iconic sports sedan. Positioned as a performance-oriented variant within the F30 generation, it bridged the gap between the more accessible 328i models and the higher-performance M3. The 335i utilized BMW’s sophisticated N55 inline-six engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a blend of power, refinement, and everyday usability. It was a key model for BMW in the North American market, where demand for performance sedans remained strong.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Sedan (F30) |
| Type (Engine) | 335i (306 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 201.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 263.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1200-5000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1200-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N55B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4624 mm (182.05 in.) |
| Width | 1811 mm (71.3 in.) |
| Height | 1429 mm (56.26 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 94W |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 335i Steptronic was the N55B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine was a significant evolution of BMW’s previous inline-six designs, featuring direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The direct injection system allowed for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger minimized turbo lag, providing a more responsive driving experience. The N55 produced 306 horsepower at 5800-6000 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1200-5000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributed to strong acceleration in various driving situations.
The engine was mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission (Steptronic), which offered smooth and quick shifts. This transmission featured adaptive learning, adjusting shift points based on the driver’s style. Drivers could also manually select gears using steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. The transmission’s wide gear ratio spread contributed to both fuel efficiency and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 335i Steptronic delivered a refined yet engaging driving experience. The combination of the powerful N55 engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission resulted in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.2 seconds. While not as raw or visceral as the six-speed manual version, the Steptronic offered a more accessible and comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The automatic transmission’s programming prioritized smooth shifts and fuel efficiency during normal driving, but could quickly downshift when more power was needed. Compared to the 328i, the 335i offered a noticeable increase in performance, while the 335i was less aggressive than the upcoming M3.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 335i Steptronic typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included features like a navigation system, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and a sunroof. Trim levels varied depending on packages selected, but generally offered a luxurious and sporty interior ambiance. The interior design was driver-focused, with intuitive controls and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The F30 335i featured a sophisticated chassis design with an independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension utilized coil springs and struts, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 335i was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and dynamic stability control (DSC) were standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 335i Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined transmission, and comfortable ride. Some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the same level of engagement as the manual gearbox. Compared to the 328i, the 335i offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance sedan, averaging around 32.7 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the fuel pump and oil leaks.
Legacy
The F30 335i Steptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. The N55 engine is known for its durability and tunability, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. While maintenance costs can be higher than some competitors, the 335i offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and driving enjoyment. Its sophisticated technology and refined driving characteristics continue to appeal to buyers seeking a sporty and comfortable sedan.
