Teresa’s View
The latest engineering marvel worthy of the new century is the truly functional automatic, retractable hardtop, a feature that has found its way into the eminently drivable BMW 3 Series. Although it’s not the jet pack I expected by the year 2007, the redesigned 335i convertible employs a clever three-piece retractable steel cover that elegantly stacks into a tidy package and stows in a normal-size cargo area. The entire drop-top process takes a mere 22 seconds.
While the new hard top is the most noticeable change in the 2007 makeover, it’s not the only upgrade on the 335i.
Under the hood, our girl packs a new 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine — the same power plant as her baby sister, the 328i. However, a pair of twin turbochargers bumps the horsepower from 200 to 300. According to BMW, that’s enough of a boost to motivate the 335i from 0-to-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds with the standard six-speed manual transmission. An optional six-speed automatic ($1,275) includes a manual mode that’s controlled via shiny silver paddles on the steering wheel.
The 335i’s exterior is an appropriately energetic combination of voluptuous curves and rocking hard body. Stunningly sleek it’s as pleasing to the eye with the top up as it is top down.
Although Don found the optional sport seats supportive, I arrived at a different impression following a road trip to the Gorge and back. I believe more thigh support and a tad more padding would have helped prevent my bum from falling asleep halfway through the drive.
On the plus side, I especially like the lighting in the door handles at night, adaptive brake lights that become brighter and larger the more forcefully the driver applies the brakes, and the world’s first application of Sun-Reflective Technology. The feature reduces surface temperatures by up to 36 degrees on the seats, armrest, headrests and gearshift knob by reflecting the infrared radiation of the sun — a must-have during open-air driving on hot, summer days.
What Is It?: The 2007 BMW 335i is a four-passenger, two-door hard top near-luxury convertible that sells for $50K. It’s a member of the 3 Series line-up that includes a sedan, coupe and sports wagon.
Gadget Rating: 8.7 out of 10. The sound on the audio system is amazing, but access is gained through the still cumbersome iDrive. It includes CD and MP3 player with digital sound processing and surround sound simulation.
Grocery Sack Test: Limited cargo space is protected from the retracted top by a partition. Although there is some room, I had to use the rear seat to stow my luggage.
Safety: A rollover sensor system activates rollover bars in the windshield frame and rear headrests to protect occupants in an accident. Other standard safety features include stability and traction control and large airbags installed in the front seats to protect occupants in the event of a side impact.
So, Where Are Ya From?: Final assembly for the 335i is Regensburg, Germany.