2007 BMW 3 Series

The new brake system, with larger discs for improved stopping power, works with BMW's new-generation Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) in many useful and important ways. To counteract any tendency to fade at high brake temperatures, it automatically increases pressure without the driver having to step harder on the pedal. Brake Standby keeps the pads close to the discs to reduce response time. Brake Drying dries them by periodically pressing them lightly against the discs. Dynamic Brake Control maximizes pressure in emergency stops, and Start-Off Assistant briefly holds the car when setting off on an uphill grade.

Performance

Until now, the 2002 Turbo introduced in 1973 and a 745i sedan that debuted in 1981 have been the only two turbocharged gas-powered production BMWs. This new twin-turbo system uses two small turbochargers to essentially eliminate turbo lag, the sometimes frustrating pause between when you mash the gas and when the turbo spins up sufficiently to increase power. With one feeding cylinders one through three and the other cylinders four through six, the two small turbos build up pressure much faster than a single, larger one can.


A new high-pressure direct fuel injection system uses fast-responding piezo injectors to enhance both performance and fuel efficiency. A piezo injector uses an actuator instead of a conventional solenoid valve for faster response time, which reduces fuel consumption slightly and emissions more significantly.


These new 3 Series BMWs are faster, better and more dynamically precise than the models they replace, and they raise the bar again for everyone else trying to compete in the compact sport sedan segment—and those few offering sport wagons, coupes and convertibles. They are also pricier than ever, so the price/value decision vs. a slew of also excellent competitors depends on individual pocketbooks and priorities. (www.bmwusa.com)