Yes, we're getting plenty of reviews on the new E90, but the more the better for any propective buyers...

In terms of BMW experience, I have owned only two, that being two V-8 E39 models. So please forgive me for lacking E46 experience I had the test drive at Momentum BMW Southwest in Houston today. They had the requisite four demo cars like the other dealers. I drove only one e90, a 330i sport 6-gang. Well, here it goes...


Exterior

- At first glance the car looks a lot bigger than the E46, but it's really the width, not the length. It has a lot more road presence.

- For those with a disdain for the Bangle designs, this one is very easy on the eyes. It's definitely a BMW, certainly a 3er. I'm happy BMW went back to the chararacter lines bisecting the door handles.

- The E90 doesn't look good in anything less than 17" wheels. The star spoke 159 that are standard on the 330i look decent. Of course, the ellipsoid 162 look excellent on the 330i sport package. And has anyone noticed 330i sport is lowered into the weeds? Especially on the rear wheel. I love that look! In fact, it's even lower than a E39 M5!

- Love the power fold exterior mirrors a la M5 style!

Interior

- Upon sitting in the car, it's snug. It doesn't quite have intimacy the E46 has between the driver and cockpit. At least the dashboard is still close to the driver, unlike the E60 or E65. The doors are still German heavy, but not as heavy as a E60.

- I'm only 5'9", so when I'm driving, the rear passenger behind me is very comfortable. The rear seats are much better than the E46, with good contouring. The rear leg room is the biggest change in the interior dimension. It's not a huge gain, but very noticeable. Folks, the rear seat in the E90 is approaching the comfort levels of the E39 5er.

- The car I drove did not have iDrive. I love gadgets, but didn't miss it. My wife commented the dash looks better with the iDrive though. The standard radio is fairly easy to decipher. It reminds me of the MID units in the E39's without navigation.

- The seats are comfortable and supportive in the typical BMW style. I love the seat back width supports a la E46 M3! They're very effective!

The Drive

- The gearshift movement and clutch are shortest I've ever experienced in a BMW. It's very easy to modulate. The takeup on the clutch is immediate and very progressive. I didn't notice any ill effects from an overprotective CDV (clutch delay valve).

- The ride from the 18" runflats were very good balance. It was firm, but not busy or harsh. The tires on the car I drove were Bridgestone RE050a's. Very grippy tire.

- The test car did not have active steering. I didn't miss it. The standard steering is beautifully weighted and still has plenty of road feel. The boost is a lot less than a E39 M5 with servotronic assist. E46 owners may complain about less steering feel, (my salesman being one) but it's feels great to me (my BM's have only had recirculating-ball steering)

- I have only limited experience with the BMW sixes, but this R6 is a gem. It loves to wind out to its 7K RPM max. It feels as fast as a E39 540i, albeit with less low-end torque. Folks this engine has LEGS. I was well over 90mph in third gear. I'll going out on a limb here, but I think BMW sixes are incredibly smooth, even more so than their V-8's.

Pricing

- Pleasantly surprised BMW held it's line on pricing. This is a very high value car. Some may argue a Infiniti G35 is $6K cheaper. I think the G35 is very nice, but it simply doesn't have the substance of the E90.

- I have done Euro Delivery from this dealer before, and they have treated me very well service wise as well giving a fair deal on cars. My salesman tells me he can get a 330's fairly quickly.

NOTE TO HOUSTONITES: When I first started shopping at this dealer four years ago, it took me three visits to find the right salesperson. Generally, the salespeople at Momentum SW are snobby pricks.