In contrast to the howls of protest from automotive journalists and BMW loyalists alike when BMW introduced the 7 Series and then 5 Series models in recent years, the new 3 Series brought a collective sigh of relief. Thankfully, the “uglification” and over-sophistication of recent BMW offerings hasn’t carried over to the redesigned 3 Series sedan, launched last May.

Beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder and if you like the looks of BMW’s other sedans, the 3-Series will please. It bears a strong familial resemblance to the 5, 6 and 7 Series. The sixth-generation 3 Series also gets a much-needed boost in size, growing an additional two inches in length, three inches in width and 1.4 inches to the wheelbase. This translates into much needed interior room. The trunk is larger and wheels and tires have been increased to 17 or 18 inches, depending on the model chosen.

For 2006, the 3 Series is offered in a confusing array of nine models. Confusing because only the 325i and 330i four-door sedans, all-wheel drive 325xi sedan, 325xi sports wagon and 330xi all-wheel drive sedan are new. Coupe and convertible 3 Series models maintain the body style that’s been used since 1999, and will change over later in the ’06 model year.

I tested a nicely equipped 330i with a six-speed manual transmission, priced at $42,865 including options and destination charges.

I was impressed by the way BMW seemed to improve just about everything on a model that was already near perfect. The more time I spent behind the wheel, the more I enjoyed the experience and appreciated the masterful German engineering in this class leader.

Under the hood, the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine sees a boost in horsepower from 225 to 255. While I didn’t feel shortchanged on power, I did wish for more low-end torque than the standard 220 lb./ft., which had me downshifting more than was desirable while passing or slowing in traffic. This is my only complaint for a vehicle that is otherwise a blast to drive.

The heart of owning a BMW is the driving experience: world-class suspension, steering, braking, balance and agility. The feeling is precise and confident with remarkable handling poise. The ride quality is firm yet comfortable. You simply never fatigue driving this car, a true joy behind the wheel.

Inside, the cabin features understated luxury and elegance with more space than ever, though it’s still a compact best suited for four passengers.

One of the first changes I noticed was the removal of the keyed ignition switch in favor of a key fob and starter button on the dash. There’s a new turn-signal stalk that I didn’t much care for. It doesn’t remain in the up or down position after signaling and you can’t tell by feel if the signal is on or not.

The new dash features a single arch over the instrument cluster. My tester had black interior with wood trim that was too dark to be attractive. Brushed steel or aluminum would have been less drab and more appropriate to the high-tech improvements for 2006.

If BMW got one thing right with the new 3 Series, it’s in not repeating the mistake of including iDrive — the dreaded LCD-screen, control-knob multimedia interface — as standard equipment. Instead it’s included with the optional navigation system that’s likely to produce more annoyance than assistance. A note to BMW: think touch screen!

New technology? There’s plenty to go around in the new model. All models now include run-flat tires as standard equipment. They’re good for 150 miles at 50 miles per hour when the air’s gone and work because of their stiff sidewalls. There’s active steering that turns the headlights with the steering wheel to illuminate a curve. All models have adaptive brake lights that get brighter as the driver applies more pedal pressure.

Safety features include all the expected airbags, including head curtain and front-seat-mounted side-impact (side-impact bags for rear occupants are no longer available); anti-skid control and anti-lock brakes with brake-force proportioning. And, the brake pads lightly sweep the brake rotors every couple of seconds when it’s raining; dry rotors stop the vehicle quicker. Dynamic stability control is standard. The vehicle has not yet been crash tested by the government or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Driving enthusiasts will find little to dislike about the new 3 Series, and will appreciate the extra room and power. The 3 Series never failed to impress and is still the standard. The best entry-level luxury sedan in the world just got better

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