6 gears, 6 cylinders, 2 turbochargers
The 'x' from the name plaque on the trunk lid has been moved to the smart new 'xDrive' badge on the fender. This effectively ends BMW's 'xi' moniker and facilitates a re-name to '335i Xdrive', in this case.

The tester saw BMW's three-litre twin-turbo straight-six mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and an intelligent all wheel drive system. It's a setup revered by winter driving enthusiasts the world over.

The engine smoothly transitions from gushing low-rpm torque to screaming for redline when the full span of the tachometer is exploited. Power piles on from about 1,500 rpm-- and a pleasant, restrained snarl invades the cabin when drivers push.

Boost lag is virtually imperceptible, and telltale turbo sound effects are inaudible unless extensive efforts are made to hear them. Just tell your carpool buddies it's got a V8.

Sporty winter driving saw mileage average about 11.5L /100km in the city, highway and backroads. The 300 horsepower AWD sport sedan doesn't really get much more fuel efficient.

The engine smoothly transitions from gushing low-rpm torque to screaming for redline when the full span of the tachometer is exploited.

The manual box swaps gears with a reasonably clean and precise action, though the shifter exhibits a slightly notchy feel in some situations and doesn't like to be rushed. Clutch effort is fantastic-- heavy enough to communicate what's going on without being uncomfortable or tiring in traffic.

Ultimately, rowing the gears here is a joy-- especially considering that the manually-shifted AWD premium sedan has largely gone the way of the Dodo Bird. Dual-clutch, Tiptronic, SMG and the like are neato, but they're just not the real thing.

Clawing in with all fours
On deep snow, glare ice, or bare pavement, the xDrive and vigilant ESP system keep the car on its best behavior-- even neutralizing small slides before the driver notices them. Uber-heavy steering locks the 335 on to its course and eliminates the gut-wrenching pull some cars exhibit when cutting over slush-ruts or standing water at speed.

Cruise the highway, and you'll find wind and road noise kept well in check, alongside a ride balanced nicely between comfort and sport. Traction is immense during acceleration on wet or slightly snowy roads, and there's a feel of incredible heaviness at play. Until drivers steer, brake or wind up the twin-turbo engine, the 335 feels as dense and stable as a concrete mantle.
Shopping around

There are less expensive and edgier looking machines in direct competition with the 335-- so be sure to explore the market fully if you're shopping in it. Most notable competitors include the value-priced Infiniti G37, the celebrated Cadillac CTS, and the sporty Lexus IS350.

End of the day, if it's a sturdy, sporty all wheel drive with a six-speed stick your after, this is probably the premium sedan that'll top your list.


Photo Credit : Justin Pritchard