Sedans/Wagons

The 3-Series string of compact cars from BMW includes four-door sedans, a five-door sport wagon plus two-door coupes or convertibles. First ashore for 2006 are the next generation of designs for 3-Series sedans and sport wagon. The 325i and 330i sedans of 2006 ride on an expanded RWD platform with longer wheelbase and wider track to enhance chassis dynamics and hone handling traits. Revamped six-cylinder engines are dropped into these cars, including a lightweight 3.0-liter plant for 330i rated at 255 hp and a version for 325i scoring 215 hp. New AWD versions with BMW's xDrive system are the sedans 325xi and 330xi, plus the 325xi sport wagon offering AWD exclusively. These compacts also carry a load of sophisticated electronic vehicle controls adapted from BMW's 5-Series sedans, such as DSC with added features and the Head Protection System (HPS) air bags.

Coupe/Convertible

The compact-class coupe and convertible from BMW in 2006 extend issues of 2005 but add three new shades to the palette of body paints -- Quartz Blue, Monaco Blue and Deep Green. A new power rear sunshade goes on the option sheet for the coupe, and the convertible's folding ragtop offers motorized power movement.

A line of ultra performance cars from BMW continues with the M3 coupe and convertible, but a new M5 model arrives with massive firepower. Nomenclature for the series uses the alphabetical designation of M, as in muscle. The number 5 signifies BMW's mid-size 5-Series car based on the new 550i sedan, and a 3 represents the 3-Series coupe and convertible.

All of the thrust for new M5 stems from a 5.0-liter V10 that blows the doors off with 507 hp and massive torque through a seven-speed sequential manual gearbox (SMG) that brings both automatic and manual shift programs. BMW projects the zero-to-60 acceleration time for this new super car to clock in around four seconds and change. M3 coupe and convertible pull from a 3.2-liter in-line-six that knocks down 333 hp. Leather upholstery is now standard for the 2006 M3 coupe.

BMW's X5-Series of sport-activity wagons repeat as the X5 3.0i and X5 4.4i but with an onboard computer now standard equipment. Both versions look remarkably like one of BMW's big sports sedans, only jacked up with a wagon's cargo compartment at the tail. Both also contain BMW's smart xDrive AWD system. Infinitely variable, the device can direct the engine's power to whichever axle, front or rear, has the best traction bite. It works with the computerized four-wheel Dynamic Stability Control (DSC-X) mechanism and a traction control system that can correct potentially dangerous skid movements.

X5 splits into two models based on powertrain. X5 4.4i gets a 4.4-liter V8 worth 320 hp with a six-speed automatic. X5 3.0i has a 3.0-liter in-line-six netting 225 hp with Steptronic automatic or standard six-speed manual. New 18-inch V-spoke wheels come with the optional sport package for X5 4.4i.

This compact-class SUV goes by the alphanumeric tag of X3. Think of it as a raucous sports car with a wagon's boxy utility bay. A forceful in-line six-cylinder engine fits in front of the four-door passenger compartment that comprises two rows of seats for five riders and the cargo bay accessible through a roof-hinged tailgate. X3 stocks the xDrive electronically controlled AWD mechanism. Off pavement, X3 adds another device called Hill Descent Control (HDC) to keep all wheels firmly planted on a steep slope.

For power, BMW puts a 3.0-liter engine in X3 3.0i with 225 hp through a sporty ZF six-speed manual or five-speed Steptronic automatic shifter. X3's cabin is impressive in design and content with standard features in 2006 including an onboard computer. Packages load additional gear, such as the premium package with Panoramic Roof or sport package with body color on side skirts and bumpers.