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 type supplied—arrived on US shores as a 2006 mannequin. though Europe bought a couple of 2005 fashions. Regardless of which facet of Atlantic you’re on, 2025 marks a particular, 20-year anniversary of the E90 3 Sequence. What higher option to rejoice 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 automotive’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 programs made the E90 3 Sequence a superb driver’s automotive and a logical development from its progenitors. It additionally adopted a decades-long custom of practically good 50:50 entrance and rear weight distribution. Fortunately, these better dimensions translated into extra usable area contained in the automotive, 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 much 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 computerized security belt tensioners already normal within the entrance seats. Later, it grew to become the primary 3 Sequence to introduce drivers to BMW TwinPower Turbo engines. The N54 engine within the later 335i and 335is fashions offered the premise for the later and better B58 we all know and love immediately.
The E90 Right now – 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’ attraction. It was additionally the final 3 Sequence BMW supplied 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 accessible.
These two options alone make it prized amongst fans, however it 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 grew to become the final 3 Sequence accessible with a guide transmission within the States. These fortunate Europeans even bought a 335i with a guide transmission, which by no means got here stateside.
Blissful 20th Birthday, E90
The E90 3 Sequence is sufficiently old to drink in lots of international locations. However no matter the place you name house, the E90 is an excellent testomony to all of the issues that made—and a few that also make—the BMW model exceptional. The perfect factor is that BMW bought some 3 million of those glorious vehicles—so that you’ll nearly by no means too late to go discover a respectable one and drive it. The truth is, I extremely encourage you to just do that.
