Best Car Reviews - 2012 BMW 335i Coupe

Introduction

The 2012 BMW 335i Coupe is a masterpiece from the German automaker's lineup, designed to appeal to those who appreciate a blend of luxury and sports car performance. Released as a part of the E92 series, this vehicle targets driving enthusiasts and professionals seeking a premium, stylish, and engaging ride. What sets this model apart is its harmonious integration of performance, luxury features, and distinctive BMW aesthetics, making it a remarkable player in the subcompact executive car class.

Design and Exterior Features

With a sleek and dynamic silhouette, the BMW 335i Coupe exudes an aura of sporty elegance. The smooth curves and prominent lines contribute to a robust and agile stance, while maintaining the brand's classic kidney grille and angel eye headlights. The coupe is built with attention to aerodynamic efficiency, which not only enhances its appearance but also its performance.

Key exterior features include:

Distinctive kidney grille and adaptive xenon headlights
19-inch alloy wheels that enhance its athletic posture
Power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals
Sunroof providing an airy and open cabin feel
Available M Sport Package for an even sportier look

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 2012 335i Coupe, and you'll immediately notice a commitment to luxury and driver-oriented design. The cabin is crafted with high-quality materials, including premium leather upholstery and subtle metallic accents, ensuring a plush and refined atmosphere. Comfort is prioritized, making every journey enjoyable whether it's a daily commute or a long-distance drive.

Luxury and comfort features include:

Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort
Heated front seats for enhanced comfort in colder climates
Ergonomically designed driver’s seat with memory function
Premium audio system delivering exceptional sound quality
Intuitive iDrive system with a refined interface

Performance and Handling

Under the hood of the 2012 335i Coupe lies a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, known for its exceptional power delivery and smoothness. This engine delivers an impressive 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, capable of launching the coupe from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds. Its manual 6-speed transmission offers precise gear shifts, enhancing the driver engagement.

The driving experience in the city is refined and composed, while highway cruising is effortless thanks to the coupe’s stable handling. Whether navigating tight corners or open roads, the vehicle remains responsive and predictable.

Fuel efficiency stands at approximately 13.5 l/100 km, respectable for its performance caliber.

Performance highlights:

Rear-wheel drive setup for engaging driving dynamics
Sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling
Advanced braking system for confident stops
Balanced weight distribution for improved stability
Adaptive headlights aiding in nighttime driving

Technology and Connectivity

The 2012 BMW 335i Coupe doesn't fall short in technology, offering a suite of features aimed at enhancing the driving experience and connectivity. The infotainment system is intuitive, with the iDrive controller providing easy access to various functionalities.

Technology highlights include:

9.7-inch display with navigation
Bluetooth connectivity for seamless device integration
Premium sound system with surround capabilities
USB and auxiliary inputs for flexible media options
Optional satellite radio

Safety Features

BMW's commitment to safety is evident in the 335i Coupe, packed with standard and advanced features designed to protect occupants.

Safety features include:

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) for controlled braking
Stability control and traction control systems
Front and side airbags for comprehensive protection
Adaptive crash safety system with automatic call for assistance
Achieved high ratings in crash tests, ensuring passenger safety

Pricing and Variants

The 2012 BMW 335i Coupe is positioned as a premium offering in the subcompact segment, with a base price starting around $44,000 USD. While it may command a premium over some competitors, the blend of luxury, performance, and design justifies the cost.

Trim comparisons:

Base 335i Coupe: $44,000 USD
Competitor models: typically range from $35,000 to $50,000 USD

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exceptional engine performance and acceleration
High-quality interior materials and luxury feel
Architecturally beautiful design
Advanced technology and connectivity features
Superior handling and driving dynamics

Cons

Higher base price compared to some rivals
Manual transmission †preferred by enthusiasts† not favored by all
Limited rear seat space for passengers
Fuel consumption slightly higher than some competitors
Premium maintenance costs

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning the BMW 335i Coupe entails some expected maintenance, with annual costs averaging around $1,200 USD.

Common issues:

Turbocharger wastegate failure
Oil gasket leaks
Fuel pump issues
Electrical system malfunctions
Suspension component wear

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8.5/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

“The driving experience is unparalleled; it's smooth yet thrilling.”
“Interior comfort and quality are top-notch, but rear seats are cramped.”
“Maintenance is more costly than anticipated, but reliability is solid.”
“Love the traditional manual transmission, a rare find!”
“Fuel consumption could be better, but performance makes up for it.”

Best Cars in This Category

2012 Audi A5
2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe
2012 Lexus IS 350
2012 Infiniti G Coupe
2012 Cadillac CTS Coupe

Summary

The 2012 BMW 335i Coupe is best suited for those who demand performance, luxury, and style in one package. Ideal for driving enthusiasts and professionals, it strikes a harmonious balance between thrilling dynamics and refined comfort. While there are a few drawbacks such as fuel consumption and rear seat space, the overall package is appealingly solid, offering a compelling option in the subcompact executive car segment.