2009 BMW 3 Series Sedan 335i

Pros

Stunning look outside and inside; Excellent brakes and overall handling/ride tradeoff

Cons

Counterintuitive controls; Strange steering feel w/ elctro opt; 15.7 MPG; questionable reliability

Some people say the BMW ride is a bit rough for them. I have to say for myself, it is the best tradeoff between handling and comfort I have seen on any car including other BMW's, although I admit it can be a bit rough with the optional sport package and run-flat tires, both of which I have. If you want smoothly soft handling, go for the Merc C class or Lexus ES350. Both are less sporty but smoother.

The look of the '09 is upgraded yet subtle. Only those who owned '07- '08 models would know the differences. I leased an '07 in '06 and enjoyed driving it. Now, I can say the reliability was quite poor but I over look those things because I am a 100% loyal BMW fan. Truth be told, most BMW's are very problematic after only a few years and all of mine were no exception. I hope this 2009 is better and the bugs are worked out.

Caution is needed though. If you plan on keeping this car buy the opt extended warranty- the repair costs for BMW after the factory warranty are over are astronomical! I spent $1700 for a new steering servo in my other BMW 528i and a ton of money on other items. The car ended up costing me more to keep it. My other BMW, an 05 X3 which was leased, was in the repair shop every two weeks no joking.

Also, don't expect gas to last. These beasts are thirsty. The read out says now 15.7 MPG and I have been doing some higway traveling. My 528i was even worse the whole 5 years I had it. Doubt I ever saw 16 MPG and they require premium gas.

The good points you know already- great brakes, handling and engine transmission, looks, etc. I throughly enjoy the entertainment package which is far better than '07 DVD based navi. Now you can store music in the built in hard drive instead of via the iPod connection. The navi screen is much brighter IMO and easier to use. So far I loaded about 600 songs but it still is a slow and tedious process.

The steering will take some time to get used to. Called 'Active Steering' it automatically changes direction by itself to fix your errors. Ask a dealer and test drive one with it first for few hundred miles. You may hate it as I do now after only two weeks.

Good Luck.