On March 1st, 2005, BMW USA introduced that the “icon of sport sedans” would enter its fifth era. The E90 3 Sequence sedan—on the time, the one physique model provided—arrived on US shores as a 2006 mannequin. though Europe obtained a number of 2005 fashions. Regardless of which aspect of Atlantic you’re on, 2025 marks a particular, 20-year anniversary of the E90 3 Sequence. What higher strategy to have a good time than to acknowledge what made the E90 the finest era of the BMW 3 Sequence?
The E90 3 Sequence: Stepping Ahead, In Interval
The E90 was overwhelmingly well-received by critics of the day. Regardless of the automobile’s progress—it measures 2.2 inches (56 mm) longer and three.0 inches (76.2 mm) wider than the E46—updates to the suspension, brakes, steering, and stability methods made the E90 3 Sequence a superb driver’s automobile and a logical development from its progenitors. It additionally adopted a decades-long custom of almost good 50:50 entrance and rear weight distribution. Fortunately, these better dimensions translated into extra usable house contained in the automobile, too.
Invariably contributing to the sedan’s reward was the brand new engine BMW packaged with it. The N52 inline-six debuted with the E90 3 Sequence, and it was the usual providing within the US. Whereas mechanically just like the M54 it changed, it’s improved in a number of methods. It revs larger—7,000 rpm vs. 6,500—and makes 30 extra horsepower—255 horsepower vs. 225. It additionally weighs 22 kilos much less (~10 kg) and measures an inch much less lengthwise.
Different historic firsts? The E90 3 Sequence was the primary BMW with a five-link rear suspension and dynamic cruise management capabilities. Security options debuted with the mannequin, too. Rear seat passengers now additionally benefited from automated security belt tensioners already customary within the entrance seats. Later, it turned the primary 3 Sequence to introduce drivers to BMW TwinPower Turbo engines. The N54 engine within the later 335i and 335is fashions offered the idea for the later and better B58 we all know and love at the moment.
The E90 Immediately – the Final “Actual” 3 Sequence?
Arguably extra importantly, the E90 3 Sequence additionally signaled some iconic lasts for the time-tested nameplate. It was the final 3er to depend on hydraulic power-assisted steering—an inextricable a part of the three Sequence’ appeal. It was additionally the final 3 Sequence BMW provided with a naturally aspirated engine. That pleasant N52 was the start of the top, some may say. Starting with the F30, solely turbocharged choices had been obtainable.
These two options alone make it prized amongst lovers, but it surely will get higher. Because the E90 lineup expanded all through the years, one other historic second got here and went. The E91 3 Sequence Touring turned the final 3 Sequence obtainable with a handbook transmission within the States. These fortunate Europeans even obtained a 335i with a handbook transmission, which by no means got here stateside.
Pleased 20th Birthday, E90
The E90 3 Sequence is sufficiently old to drink in lots of international locations. However no matter the place you name dwelling, the E90 is an excellent testomony to all of the issues that made—and a few that also make—the BMW model exceptional. The very best factor is that BMW offered some 3 million of those wonderful automobiles—so that you’ll nearly by no means too late to go discover a respectable one and drive it. In truth, I extremely encourage you to do exactly that.
