On March 1st, 2005, BMW USA introduced that the “icon of sport sedans” would enter its fifth technology. The E90 3 Sequence sedan—on the time, the one physique type supplied—arrived on US shores as a 2006 mannequin. though Europe acquired a couple of 2005 fashions. Irrespective of which aspect of Atlantic you’re on, 2025 marks a particular, 20-year anniversary of the E90 3 Sequence. What higher option to have fun than to acknowledge what made the E90 the finest technology 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 practically good 50:50 entrance and rear weight distribution. Fortunately, these higher dimensions translated into extra usable area 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 much like the M54 it changed, it’s improved in a number of methods. It revs increased—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 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 higher B58 we all know and love right now.
The E90 In the present day – 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 would possibly say. Starting with the F30, solely turbocharged choices have been accessible.
These two options alone make it prized amongst fanatics, 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 handbook transmission within the States. These fortunate Europeans even acquired a 335i with a handbook transmission, which by no means got here stateside.
Completely satisfied 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 outstanding. One of the best factor is that BMW offered some 3 million of those glorious automobiles—so that you’ll nearly by no means too late to go discover a respectable one and drive it. Actually, I extremely encourage you to do exactly that.
