The Iconic 2006 BMW 330i and Partstrains Commitment to Product Excellence

By Jenny Mc Lane
The 3-series each year sells about 450,000 worldwide-making it one of the biggest single car lines from any carmaker, which is especially remarkable for a premium vehicle. All U.S. 3-series models come with front, front-seat side, and full-length curtain air bags, but not with rear-seat side-impact air bags, because BMW claims "advances in side-impact safety are such that it is no longer necessary to offer rear side bags." "We cannot afford to take a risk with this car, because it is too important," says BMW's R&D chief Burkhard Göschel. "If you look at the Z4 as the extreme, as avant-garde, this is in the middle between safe and avant-garde."

The BMW 3 Series represents 40% of BMW's vehicle output. It is, as one BMW executive said, "the core product for the brand." Not only is it important to BMW economically, but also its status as an iconic car is crucial to the company's image. For many, it's the car that says, "I've made it," or at least, "I'm on my way."

The BMW 330i has a three-stage variable induction system, an electric cooling pump and a volume-controlled oil pump that only pumps as much oil as needed, saving engine power. Its new engine weighs 22 pounds less than its predecessor does. It is also more powerful, more fuel-efficient and more compact. In addition to the usual double VANOS magic, this engine features the Valvetronic continuously variable valve lift.

BMW's double-pivot independent front suspension has been adapted for the 3 Series, with a pair of lower arms that complement the car's upgraded MacPherson struts. An all-new five-link rear suspension, featuring many lightweight aluminum pieces, is combined with an all-new, more rigid chassis. Oversized ventilated discs in all four corners and an aluminum steering rack ensure precise handling and braking.