Sequential twin-turbo system (smaller turbo for low RPM boost, larger turbo for high RPM boost)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission:
6-speed manual (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
6-speed Steptronic automatic with paddle shifters (ZF GA6HP19Z)
Features
Clutch Type:
Dual-mass flywheel with single-plate clutch (manual)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-5 (or equivalent like Pentosin ATF1)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase E90 E91:
108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Wheelbase E92 E93:
107.5 inches (2730 mm)
Length E90:
181.8 inches (4618 mm)
Length E92:
180.8 inches (4591 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height E90:
56.7 inches (1441 mm)
Height E92:
54.4 inches (1382 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Wheel Offset:
ET 34-46 (typical)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
approx. 3600 lbs (1630 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
approx. 3650 lbs (1655 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (2006 sedan)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (various years, depending on body style)
Active Features
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags for sedan/coupe)
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seat belts, active head restraints
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
I Drive:
iDrive infotainment system with central controller, available navigation, and satellite radio.
Audio Options:
Standard Hi-Fi audio, optional Logic 7 premium sound system.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) on some models.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface for phone calls.
Usb Aux Input:
Optional USB/AUX input for audio devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-Based Service (CBS), typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles (refer to manual for exact mileage based on specific plugs and conditions).
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Interval:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000-60,000 miles (BMW Blue Coolant).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 viscosity.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or approved equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid.
Known Issues
High Pressure Fuel Pump:
Common failure point leading to rough running, stalling, and check engine lights. Often requires replacement.
Fuel Injectors:
Early models (pre-2009) prone to injector failure, causing misfires and performance issues.
Turbochargers:
Wastegate rattle and eventual failure of the turbos themselves can occur, often related to lack of proper maintenance or driving style.
Vacuum Lines And Boost Leaks:
Cracked or leaking vacuum lines can affect boost pressure and cause performance problems.
Water Pump And Thermostat:
Electric water pump and thermostat failures can lead to overheating issues.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Can develop leaks over time, requiring replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E90 Introduction:
The E90 generation 3 Series was introduced in 2005, replacing the E46. The 335i model, with its groundbreaking twin-turbocharged engine, debuted in 2006.
N54 Significance:
The N54 engine marked BMW's return to turbocharged gasoline engines in series production, offering significant power and torque gains over naturally aspirated counterparts.
Production
Production Years:
2006-2011 (for the E90/E91/E92/E93 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Ward Afy Engine Award:
The N54 engine was a multiple-time winner of Ward's 10 Best Engines award, recognized for its performance and innovation.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The BMW 3 Series (including the 335i) was frequently featured on Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars list during its production run.