2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe Review
Price
from: RM289,800
to: RM498,800
Installment
from: RM2,764/mth
to: RM4,757/mth
2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe at a glance
The 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe follows closely the successful footsteps of the BMW 3-Series Sedan, inheriting the sublime chassis and quality cabin. First-rate dynamics, with the performance to match, come at a steal relative to the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe's rivals.
2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe quick specs
| Body Style | Coupe |
| Class | Compact Luxury |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 2+2 |
2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
BMW's styling is perhaps the only aspect that critics can find fault with. The BMW design language is consistently implemented throughout its whole model range. After a facelift, the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe looks sharper than before. To us, we are neutral on the exterior styling, but the coupe does look sleeker with two less doors. Dominated by a clean and modern design, the interior styling is more favourable.
Handling
Sharing the same underpinnings with the BMW 3-Series Sedan means the coupe is equipped with 50:50 weight distribution and rear-wheel drive as well, gifting the coupe superb handling above all. It steers and corners with unmatched precision thanks to the sublime chassis. Blending composed body control, endless grip, and informative steering, there is little surprise how the coupe tackles corners and bends without drama. In short, fantastic to drive.
Comfort
Due to the sporty suspension setup, the ride is firm but importantly never uncomfortable. Noise insulation is excellent on the whole, even if the frameless door windows generate more wind noise compared to the BMW 3-Series Sedan's. Engine note really is more music than noise to us. The wide range of adjustments behind the wheel and for the seats easily allows drivers to find an ideal driving position. Controls are straight-forward to operate; even the iDrive controller has become more user-friendly with shortcut buttons.
Quality + Reliability
Similar to the BMW 3-Series Sedan, the coupe's cabin is classy and modern. The dashboard has a simple and clear layout which aids the ergonomics. Premium standards expected of a luxurious coupe can be seen in the first-rate materials used and excellent fit-and-finish. Solid construction with attention to details is apparent throughout the car. BMW models have a good reliability reputation, and the coupe should uphold it well.
Performance
A total of three engines are available: 2.0-litre with 156 bhp, 2.5-litre with 190 bhp, and the venerable twin-turbo 3.0-litre with 306 bhp. The 2.0-litre has to be worked hard if you want any real thrust. BMW's famed in-line six-cylinder technology is available in the 2.5-litre and 3.0-litre. The 2.5-litre provides strong acceleration and effortless cruising. But it is the twin-turbo 3.0-litre that stole the show with colossal performance delivered with mechanical sophistication. All engines are paired with six-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic.
Roominess
Unlike many self-proclaimed four-seaters, the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe can seat four in comfort. Front two enjoy plenty of head- and leg-room, while the back two get similar generous treatment, except for passengers over 1.8 metres who will find rear headroom to be limited. Boot size is large, bolstered by the through-loading system with 60:40 split backrest, although its irregular shape and small boot entrance are less than helpful.
Running Costs
Efficient Dynamics technology enables the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe to lead the class with its excellent fuel economy. Servicing and repairs are expensive, but typically long service intervals and good reliability should help. Road tax costs from RM 377.50, to RM 877 and RM 2,077.50, but insurance will be more punishing to the wallet due to the high prices. Being a coupe may mean more depreciation as compared to the popular BMW 3-Series Sedan, which has good residuals in the second-hand market.
Value for Money
While the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class 200K starts at RM 488,888, the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe starts at RM 289,800 for the 320i. There is a significant price difference here, one that is very advantageous to the BMW. Relative to the CLK, the BMW 3-Series Coupe handles and performs much better on the roads, while the rest of its package just about edges out the Mercedes. Bring in the price gap, however, and the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe becomes an absolute steal.
Equipment
320i and 323i get 17-inch alloy wheels, run-flat tyres, cruise control, Park Distance Control (PDC), foglights, rain sensors, xenon headlights, automatic climate control, sports leather steering wheel, plus stereo with MP3 decoder. 335i adds 18-inch alloy wheels, different trim, sports seats, and gearshift paddles among others. Comprehensive safety kit includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which encompasses anti-lock braking system and traction control, and airbags for front and rear passengers.
Environment
In addition to improved fuel economy, Efficient Dynamics technology entails a series of energy-saving measures that limit environmental pollution. Any of the three engines will better comparable engines in terms of fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. BMW is providing more driving pleasure with less emissions, something other automakers should emulate.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Dynamic performance
Quality cabin
Advantageous pricing
Exterior styling could be nicer
Slightly firm ride
Rear headroom limited for taller people
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