04 Jul 06
Inside, the cabin is classic 3-Series, with that curvaceous dash and purposeful instrument layout.
But where the coupe really scores is with the adult-grade space in the back. Even six-foot-plus passengers can sit reasonably comfortably behind front seat occupants of a similar height, which isn't something you'd even consider trying in an Alfa Romeo Brera or the upcoming new Audi TT. And to make life even easier, the front occupant seatbelts have a telescoping device that presents the seatbelt, meaning you don't have to reach back over your shoulder to grab the buckle.
The list of standard equipment is reasonable enough, too. It includes automatic air con, six airbags, park distance control, Dynamic Stability Control, 17" alloys, CD player and Hill Start Assist (what it says on the tin...).
So the latest BMW coupe is exceptionally good to drive, is likely to offer a first-rate ownership proposition and looks rather better than the photos suggest. The best 3-Series coupe yet, then?
No sir, not even close. If this latest coupe is the starting point, we'll have sky-high expectations for the next iteration of the model. Namely, the 400bhp-plus E90 V8 M3 that debuts in 2007. Can't wait...
