Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Coupe (E92 LCI, facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 335i (306 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 196 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 198.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 259.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800 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 | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 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 | 4612 mm (181.57 in.) |
| Width | 1782 mm (70.16 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1961 mm (77.2 in.) |
| Height | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1507 mm (59.33 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 125 mm (4.92 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 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 | 7 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 | 225/45 R17 91W; 255/40 R17 94W |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8.5J x 17 |
The 2010-2013 BMW 335i Coupe (E92 LCI) represented a sweet spot in the E92 generation. Building upon the already successful E92 platform, the LCI brought a more aggressive front fascia, revised taillights, and, most importantly, the introduction of the N55 inline-six engine. Replacing the earlier N54, the N55 offered improved thermal management and efficiency without sacrificing performance. The 335i, equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), was positioned as a sporty and luxurious coupe, appealing to drivers who desired a refined driving experience with readily available power. It sat between the base 328i and the higher-performance 335is in the lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 335i LCI lies the N55B30A 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine utilizes direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (Double-VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) to deliver a potent 306 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The turbocharger is strategically positioned to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve, peaking from 1200 to 5000 rpm. The engine’s block is constructed from aluminum alloy, contributing to its relatively lightweight design. The seven-speed DCT, a key component of the 335i’s appeal, offers incredibly quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both acceleration and driving engagement. This transmission features a multi-plate wet clutch and allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The 335i Coupe with the DCT delivers a remarkably responsive and engaging driving experience. The combination of the N55 engine’s strong low-end torque and the DCT’s rapid shifts results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 5.1 seconds. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available on other 3 Series models, the DCT provides noticeably quicker acceleration and smoother transitions between gears. While not as raw or visceral as the manual, the DCT offers a level of convenience and performance that appeals to a wider range of drivers. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback, and the chassis is well-balanced, offering a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling prowess.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 335i Coupe came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. Optional extras included features like navigation, a sunroof, heated seats, active steering, and adaptive suspension. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The standard exterior styling included shadowline trim, which blacked out exterior brightwork for a sportier appearance.
Chassis & Braking
The E92 335i Coupe features a sophisticated chassis design with an independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension utilizes MacPherson struts, while the rear employs a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 335i is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The standard wheel and tire size is 17-inch, but 18- and 19-inch options were available, offering improved aesthetics and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 335i Coupe LCI was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its powerful engine, responsive transmission, and refined handling. Compared to the 328i, the 335i offered a significant performance upgrade, while remaining relatively fuel-efficient. Against the 335is, the 335i offered a similar driving experience at a slightly lower price point, making it a more accessible option for many buyers. Some critics noted that the N55 engine, while improved over the N54, could still be prone to oil consumption issues in some cases. However, overall, the 335i Coupe LCI was considered a highly desirable and well-rounded sports coupe.
Legacy
Today, the E92 335i Coupe LCI remains a popular choice among BMW enthusiasts. The N55 engine is known for its reliability and tunability, making it a favorite among those who enjoy modifying their vehicles. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream cars, the 335i’s performance, handling, and overall driving experience continue to make it a compelling option in the used car market. Well-maintained examples command a premium, and the E92 335i Coupe LCI is increasingly recognized as a modern classic.
