The BMW 3 Series has long been considered the gold standard in the sports sedan category, and the 2012 BMW 335i arrived with significant expectations. Slightly larger than its predecessor and featuring a new electric power steering system, questions arose about whether this new iteration could maintain the performance and driving dynamics that the 3 Series was known for. However, as testing revealed, the 2012 BMW 335i not only upheld the benchmark but arguably raised it. Let’s delve into the specs that solidify its place as a performance icon.
Performance Specs: Acceleration, Braking, and Handling Prowess
The 2012 BMW 335i, even with its single turbo configuration, delivers acceleration figures that rivaled its more powerful, twin-turbocharged predecessors like the 335is. Independent testing showcased its impressive speed:
- 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds
- 1/4 mile: 13.3 seconds @ 103.9 mph
These numbers place the 335i firmly in sports car territory, matching the acceleration of vehicles like the Chevrolet Camaro SS. This brisk pace is achieved even with the standard eight-speed automatic transmission (a no-cost option alongside a six-speed manual), demonstrating the engine’s responsiveness and the transmission’s quick shifts.
BMW 335i performance specs showcase its acceleration capabilities.
Beyond straight-line speed, the 335i’s braking and handling capabilities are equally noteworthy. Equipped with substantial 13.4-inch front and 13.0-inch rear brake rotors and Continental ContiSportContact SSR tires, the 335i exhibits confident and rapid deceleration:
- 60-0 mph: 109 feet
This stopping distance is exceptional for a luxury sedan, highlighting the effectiveness of the braking system and tire grip. Furthermore, handling tests reveal the 335i’s agility and balanced chassis:
- Lateral acceleration: 0.90g
This lateral acceleration figure, achieved on the skidpad, indicates the 335i’s strong cornering grip and stability. When equipped with the optional Adaptive M Suspension, the 335i further enhances its handling dynamics, allowing drivers to confidently explore the car’s limits.
Engine Specs: The Heart of the 335i – The N55 Engine
Powering the 2012 BMW 335i is the renowned N55 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine. This engine is a key component of the 335i’s performance and provides a compelling blend of power and refinement. Key engine specifications include:
- Engine Code: N55B30
- Displacement: 3.0 liters
- Configuration: Inline-six cylinder
- Induction: Single twin-scroll turbocharger
- Horsepower: 300 hp
- Torque: 300 lb-ft
Despite being advertised with slightly less horsepower and torque than its twin-turbo predecessor (the N54 in the earlier 335i), the N55 engine in the 2012 model delivers comparable, if not superior, real-world performance. The single twin-scroll turbocharger provides excellent throttle response and minimizes lag, contributing to the car’s quick acceleration and overall driving enjoyment.
BMW 335i performance specs showcase its acceleration capabilities.
Dimensions and Weight: Balancing Size and Agility
While slightly larger than previous generations, the 2012 BMW 335i maintains a balanced size and weight distribution crucial for its handling prowess. Key dimensions and weight specifications are:
- Weight: 3586 pounds
- Weight Distribution (Front/Rear): 51/49 percent
The near 50/50 weight distribution is a hallmark of BMW’s engineering philosophy, contributing to the car’s neutral handling and balanced feel. While the 335i carries a bit more weight over the front axle compared to the four-cylinder 328i, the added power of the N55 engine more than compensates for this slight increase.
Features and Practicality: Luxury and Daily Drivability
Beyond its performance credentials, the 2012 BMW 335i remains a practical and luxurious sedan suitable for daily driving. Key features and practicality aspects include:
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Cargo Space: 17.0 cubic feet
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated): 23 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
The 335i offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior, capable of seating five adults. The generous cargo space makes it practical for everyday tasks and longer trips. Furthermore, the fuel economy figures are impressive for a performance sedan, making it relatively efficient for its class. Features like Comfort Access, with its foot-activated trunk opening, add to the convenience and user-friendliness of the 335i.
BMW 335i performance specs showcase its acceleration capabilities.
Conclusion: The 2012 BMW 335i – A True Benchmark
The 2012 BMW 335i specifications reveal a vehicle that successfully blends exhilarating performance with everyday practicality and luxury. Its impressive acceleration, braking, and handling figures solidify its position as a benchmark sports sedan. Powered by the potent and refined N55 engine, the 335i delivers a driving experience that is both engaging and rewarding. Despite minor criticisms, such as the automatic start/stop system, the 2012 BMW 335i stands as a testament to BMW’s engineering excellence and continues to be a highly desirable sports sedan for enthusiasts and discerning drivers alike.
