True to its word, the BMW 3 series is indeed the ultimate driving machine. Aspired by many manufacturers and emulated by its competitors, the 2004 BMW series is definitely a benchmark. There's a good reasoning for that. The 3 Series is fantastic. Whether it's the standard 325i or the high-performance M3, they are driver's cars. Dynamically, each is outstanding in its own right, a superbly designed machine that corners, accelerates, and stops swiftly. The 3 Series puts drivers one with the road instead of separating them.

 

Driving the sedan, coupe, convertible or sport wagon is a delight. They blend luxury and sport with soaring levels of quality, making owning one of them delightful as well. Their interiors are well equipped and comfortable. Exemplifying consistency in their cars, the BMW 3 series will always be the best entry luxury car. For 2004, th BMW 3 series introduces a hefty load of features. A six-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission is now elective on select 3 Series models, while a five-speed Steptronic automatic is now offered with the 330i Performance Package. Rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights and hands-free wireless cell phone capability are now standard features on the sedan and wagon.

 

There are new alloy wheel designs for the 325i, 325xi and 330xi Sport Package. All 330i sedans get a revised grille, a new black grille instead of silver, with a lower grille combination of body color and black. All 3 Series coupes and convertibles are given a revised front fascia, plus new front and rear bumper contours, Adaptive headlamps and taillights and new designs for both the standard and optional wheels. Interior changes are few like the revised climate control panel.

 

Finally, Sirius Satellite Radio is now available as an accessory on all 3 Series models. All 325 models are powered by a 2.5-liter inline six that makes 184 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque; all 330s use a 3.0-liter engine that generates 225 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque. On 330i models with the Performance Package, output goes up to 235 hp and 222 lb-ft. Transmission choices include either a five-speed or six-speed manual, depending on the model; and a five-speed automatic. Either engine is more than enough for everyday journey, though the 3.0-liter is by far the emerging choice as it's able to propel a manual-shift 330i to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. Reigning for the past few decades in the luxury segment, BMW is expected not to change the status quo