On March 1ststIn 2005, BMW USA announced that the “icon of the sports sedans” would enter its fifth generation. The E90 3 series sedan -at the time of the only body style, which was offered as a model from 2006 on US bank. Although Europe got some 2005 models. No matter which side of the Atlantic on which you are on which side of Atlantic you are, 2025 marks a special 20th anniversary of the E90 3 Series. What could be nicer than celebrating than recognizing what the E90 has made the best generation of the BMW 3 Series?
The E90 3 series: step forward in the period
The E90 was mostly well received by critics of the day. Despite the growth of the car – it measures 2.2 inches longer and 3.0 inches wider than the E46 – made the suspension, braking, steering and stability systems an excellent vehicle of the driver and a logical progression of the E90 3 Series. A decade of tradition of almost perfect distribution of 50:50 at the front and back also followed. Fortunately, these larger dimensions have also translated into the car more usable.
The new motor BMW, which was packed with it, contributed without exception to praise the limousine. The N52 Inline-Six made his debut with the E90 3 series and was the standard offer in the USA. Although it is mechanically similar to the M54 that it has been replaced, it is improved in several ways. It turns higher – 7,000 rpm compared to 6,500 rpm – and does 30 hp – 255 hp compared to 225.
Other historical first? The E90-3 series was the first BMW with a five-link rear wheel suspension and dynamic cruise control tax functions. Security features also debuted with the model. The passengers of the back seat now also benefited from automatic safety belt tensioners that were already in the front seats by default. Later it was the first 3 series to present the drivers in BMW Twinpower Turbo engines. The N54 engine in the later 235- and 335is models formed the basis for the later and larger B58, which we know and love today.
The E90 today – the last “real” 3 Series?
It is even more important that the E90 3 series also signaled some legendary duration for the proven type shield. It was the last 3 Series to leave hydraulic, fuel-assisted steering-a inseparable part of the 3-series charm. It was also the last 3 Series BMW that was offered with a natural engine. This delightful N52 was the beginning at the end, some could say. From F30, only turbochargers were available.
These two characteristics alone make it valued among enthusiasts, but it gets better. When the E90 line -up expanded over the years, another historical moment came and went. The E91 3 series touring became the last 3 with a manual gear in the states. These lucky Europeans even got a 335i with a manual transmission that never came in the USA.
Happy 20TH Birthday, E90
The E90 3 Series is old enough to drink in many countries. But regardless of where you call at home, the E90 is a wonderful proof of all the things that the BMW brand has made remarkable – and some that still do. The best thing is that BMW sold around 3 million of these excellent cars – so they are almost never too late to find a decent and drive it. In fact, I very much encourage you to do that.
