By : Ambo Dalle
A new 6-speed manual transmission that comes standard on all 330 models
A new optional 6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG).
Rain-sensing windshield wipers and automatic headlight control are now standard on all models
The 330xi with the Sport Package now includes run-flat tires and a Tire Pressure Monitor.
Adaptive brake lights, which signal hard braking to following cars
Shorter shift “throws” on the 6-speed stick from neutral to each gear. The new 6-speed’s ratios are approximately the same as the 5 speed for 1st through 5th gears. A 3.07:1 performance axle, short throw shifter and the M sport tuned suspension with 18" wheels and Z-rated performance tires round out the business end of the equation. Unlike last year, this package is now available with the Steptronic automatic transmission as well as with the 6 speed manual transmission.There is a third transmission available for 2004. It is a Formula 1 style Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG). This is a 6-speed manual box with electro-hydraulic controls that can shift automatically or allow you to shift it yourself, but with automatic clutch operation (which means no clutch pedal). The driver can shift using a special console-mounted shifter, or with two paddles behind the steering wheel. This transmission was formerly available only on the M model and is strictly for performance-minded drivers who are willing to forgo soft, smooth shifts when driving conservatively.In the automatic mode, shifts were all but imperceptible for relaxed cruising. While in sport mode, you simply tap the shifter forward or back to select the gear that you want. But unlike most cars with manual control, to select a higher gear, you nudge the shifter back.
Feedback
Do you have any feedback on the BMW 3-Series?
Standard Equipment
BMW 330i All Wheel Drive Compact Sport Sedan
- 3.0 liter dual overhead cam (DOHC), 24-valve inline 6-cylinder engine
- Electronic throttle control
- Six-speed manual transmission
- Stability Control
- 4-wheel ventilated anti-lock disc brakes with Emergency Brake Assist
- 17 x 7.0 alloy wheels, 205/50R-17 all-season tires
- 6-way power front seats with 2-way manual headrests; 3-driver memory for exterior mirror and seat positions
- Automatic climate control with micro-filter and air recirculation
- Tilt/telescopic steering wheel column
- Driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with "smart" dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment and sensor to help prevent unnecessary passenger's airbag deployment
- Front-side-impact airbags
- On-board GPS Navigation System
- Fold Down Rear Seats with Ski Bag
- Rear Seat Side Air Bags
- Heated Front Seats
- Leather Upholstery
- Park Distance Control
- Power Glass Moonroof
- Rear Seat Side Impact Airbag
- STEPTRONIC 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG)
- Xenon Headlights
- Sport Package Includes: 3-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, Special wheels & tires, 8-way adjustable front sport seats including, 3-position memory for driver seat and exterior mirrors, Performance wheel and tire package, reverse tilt-down passenger exterior mirror, white turn signal lights and M aerodynamic package
