Best Car Reviews - 2014 BMW 335i
Introduction
The 2014 BMW 335i is a part of BMW's iconic 3 Series lineup, which has long been celebrated for blending performance, luxury, and style. Released in an era when compact executive cars were gaining significant traction, the 335i was aimed at aficionados who appreciated both dynamic driving experiences and luxury features. This model stands out for its rear-wheel drive dynamics, high-quality construction, and a powerful engine that strikes a perfect balance between performance and everyday usability.
Design and Exterior Features
The 2014 BMW 335i maintains the classic 3 Series silhouette while incorporating modern design touches that exude sophistication and sportiness. The car is both compact and muscular, with dimensions that make it ideal for urban and highway driving. Key design elements include:
- Aggressive front fascia with signature kidney grilles.
- Sleek headlamps that seamlessly merge into the grille.
- A sculpted hood and clean side lines.
- Dual exhaust tips which hint at its performance pedigree.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the 2014 BMW 335i offers an inviting blend of luxury and advanced technology. The cabin layout is driver-centric with high-quality materials throughout:
- Premium leather upholstery and fine wood or aluminum trim.
- Ergonomically designed seats for enhanced comfort on long drives.
- Spacious rear seats considering its compact car class.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control and heated seats for added comfort.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the BMW 335i features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine with SIDI that delivers robust power with remarkable precision.
- Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just about 5.4 seconds, highlighting its sporty nature.
- The rear-wheel-drive system ensures engaging driving dynamics, providing an exhilarating experience on winding roads.
- City and highway rides are smooth, with the suspension adept at handling imperfections.
- The automatic S8 transmission is both refined and intuitive.
- Fuel efficiency stands at 11.9 l/100 km.
- Precise and responsive steering enhances the driving experience.
Technology and Connectivity
BMW's iDrive system forms the heart of the 335i's infotainment, a combination of tech and ease of use.
- Integrated 9.7-inch display screen.
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for hands-free calls and audio streaming.
- Navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
- High-quality sound system that enhances the driving experience.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount, and the 2014 BMW 335i is equipped with numerous features:
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Stability Control.
- Multiple airbags for comprehensive protection.
- Front and rear parking sensors for easy maneuverability.
- Received high ratings in crash tests for occupant safety.
Pricing and Variants
The 2014 BMW 335i has a starting base price of approximately $44,000 USD, placing it in the mid-range for compact executive cars. Available trims offer various luxury and performance upgrades:
- Competitive pricing compared to rivals such as Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional handling and performance.
- High-quality interior finish.
- Advanced technology features.
- Comfortable and supportive seats.
- Respected brand with a long heritage.
Cons
- Higher maintenance costs compared to some rivals.
- Fuel consumption could be better.
- Limited rear seat legroom for taller passengers.
- Infotainment system has a learning curve.
- Base model lacks some standard features seen in competitors.
Maintenance and Common Issues
Annual maintenance costs can be on the higher side due to the luxury nature of the brand.
- Turbocharger issues are reported commonly.
- Problems with the fuel system.
- Oil leaks around the engine.
- Electrical issues in the cabin.
- Brake sensor malfunctions.
Rating
The 2014 BMW 335i receives an overall rating of 8.5 out of 10. Breakdown:
- Design: 9/10
- Comfort: 8.5/10
- Performance: 9/10
- Technology: 8/10
- Safety: 8/10
User Reviews and Feedback
- "An incredible driving experience, feels like a classic sports sedan."
- "Luxury with a punch. Love the acceleration and cabin comfort."
- "Tech can be a bit overwhelming initially, but it's a solid car."
- "Maintenance is pricey, but the driving joy is worth it."
- "Fuel consumption is higher than expected, but performance is stellar."
Best Cars in This Category
- 2014 Audi A4
- 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- 2014 Lexus IS
- 2014 Cadillac ATS
- 2014 Infiniti Q50
Summary
The 2014 BMW 335i is ideally suited for driving enthusiasts who value the perfect fusion of performance and luxury. Its robust engine, coupled with sophisticated interior comforts and advanced technology, makes it a compelling choice in the compact executive car segment. With a solid build and BMW's hallmark drive dynamics, it remains appealing despite higher maintenance costs and fuel consumption. For those seeking an engaging yet luxurious drive, the 335i stands as a stellar option that combines the best of BMW's engineering prowess with modern conveniences.