The BMW 3 Series Sedan (E90) 335xi, produced from 2007 to 2008, represented a significant evolution in BMW’s popular compact executive car line. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the E90 generation, the 335xi combined a potent turbocharged inline-six engine with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This model aimed to deliver a compelling blend of performance, handling, and all-weather capability, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base 328i, but without the ultimate performance focus of the M3. It was a key offering in the North American market, where all-wheel drive was highly valued.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Sedan (E90) |
| Type (Engine) | 335xi (306 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.3 l/100 km (15.4 US mpg, 18.5 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| 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 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 191.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1300 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N54B30 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| 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 | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4520 mm (177.95 in.) |
| Width | 1817 mm (71.54 in.) |
| Height | 1421 mm (55.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1513 mm (59.57 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 W |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 335xi was the N54B30, a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine was a technological tour-de-force for its time, featuring direct fuel injection, a cast iron block, and an aluminum cylinder head. Crucially, it employed a twin-turbocharger setup – a first for a production BMW. The two turbochargers were not identical; one was smaller for quicker spool-up and reduced turbo lag at low engine speeds, while the other was larger to provide increased boost at higher RPMs. This configuration delivered a broad and flat torque curve, making the engine responsive across a wide range of driving conditions. The N54 also featured VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts, further optimizing performance and efficiency. The 335xi utilized a six-speed manual transmission, providing precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 335xi offered a distinctly engaging driving experience. The combination of the turbocharged inline-six and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system resulted in impressive acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 5.1 seconds. The xDrive system intelligently distributed torque between the front and rear axles, maximizing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the naturally aspirated 328i, the 335xi provided significantly more low-end torque and a more powerful mid-range. While the 335i (rear-wheel drive) offered a slightly purer driving experience, the 335xi’s all-wheel drive provided enhanced confidence and control, especially on slippery surfaces. The six-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s power delivery, offering precise shifts and a satisfying mechanical feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 335xi typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium variant. Standard features included leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. Optional extras were plentiful, including sport seats, navigation, a sunroof, and upgraded audio options. The interior design was typical BMW – functional, well-built, and focused on the driver. Exterior styling cues included subtle badging to denote the 335xi model, but otherwise, it largely mirrored the standard E90 sedan.
Chassis & Braking
The E90 335xi featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system added some weight, but the suspension was tuned to compensate, maintaining a responsive and controlled feel. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, along with electronic stability control, further enhancing safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 335xi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and all-weather capability. However, some reviewers noted that the xDrive system added weight, slightly diminishing the car’s agility compared to the rear-wheel-drive 335i. Fuel economy was reasonable for a performance sedan of its class, averaging around 23 mpg combined. Compared to the 328i, the 335xi offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 335xi also stood out from competitors like the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, offering a unique blend of performance and all-wheel-drive traction.
Legacy
The N54 engine, while groundbreaking, has proven to be somewhat complex and prone to certain maintenance issues over the long term. Common concerns include fuel injector failures, turbocharger issues, and problems with the high-pressure fuel pump. However, with proper maintenance and preventative care, the N54 can remain a reliable and rewarding engine. Today, the E90 335xi is gaining popularity among enthusiasts as a relatively affordable entry point into the world of turbocharged BMW performance. Its combination of power, handling, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to make it a desirable used car, particularly in regions with inclement weather. The 335xi represents a pivotal moment in BMW’s history, showcasing the potential of turbocharged engines and all-wheel-drive technology in a compact executive car.
