Like Phil Floraday, I have not spent time in a 3-series for a while, and I am really surprised by how different the 335d feels compared with the 1-series. The 335d definitely feels larger than the 1-series, but the power and torque of the twin-turbo diesel is a perfect match to the size and weight, where the 135i can feel totally overpowered. As usual, this car is perfectly balanced, and I had a great time getting the tail end out in the snow. The break with traction is so undramatic and graceful that after several twists and turns it was as if the 335d and I were performing Swan Lake at the Bolshoi. If only I could feel this graceful and athletic on my own two feet.
I think the new iDrive is a cinch to operate especially when compared with the first generation. Granted, similar systems from other manufacturers are still a bit more intuitive. The iDrive knob feels a touch smaller and more comfortable in the hand than I remember, too.
Upon startup, the diesel definitely makes itself heard, especially on single-digit mornings, if only for a few minutes. The "service engine soon" light made itself seen on these same mornings. On several occassions I restarted the car thinking that would reset the alert to no avail. But after a weekend with the car, I determined that the light would go off after about 20 minutes or more of driving and it never lit up on a warm start.
Jennifer Misaros, Production Editor
...
>>next page