Date: Feature Week of February 9, 2003
Topic: Black Press Business/Black Car & Travel
Author: William Reed
Article ID: article_ema020903a

THE 2003 BMW 330i SERIES
An Award-Winner In Every Way

How should a person get from point A to point B? Answer: the best way possible.

"Award-winning" is the way the BMW 3 Series is best characterized. And for an entry -level premium car, the award-winning 330i Sedan is the best way for Players and Playeretts to get around America's urban streets and highways.

The 330i "Beamer" can fit an up-and-coming Brother (or Sista's) needs. At about $35,295, this "best in class" car can be a soul-stirring experience for an African American at this motoring level.

Did you know that while African Americans comprise 12 percent of the population, we are 30 percent of the luxury car buyers? With a 225-horsepower, 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, the BMW 330i is a premium car for a consumer's maximum consideration.

The BMW 3 Series has carved out an identity that is truly the envy of the industry. BMW's 2003 entry-level models are descendants of the mid-60s 1600, considered to be the first compact sedan offering sports car performance. The 3-Series designation first appeared in the U.S. in 1977 and the car evolved from a rather boxy shape to its present fluid, aerodynamic design. According to leading industry analysts, the 3 Series is not only "the heart and soul of the franchise," but "the most popular entry luxury car since 1999." It is consistently the most credible blend of luxury and sportiness in its vehicle segment.

The BMW 330i is a car that charms both the heart and mind. It is the embodiment of the franchise's "ultimate driving machine." With the same profile as the popular 325i Sedan, urban professionals, Hip Hoppers and Old Schoolers will find that the 330i has more power than the vaulted 325i, along with additional standard equipment and distinctive design changes inside and out.

BMW engineers point out that the 330i is "swift, agile, lovingly crafted and gorgeous from every angle." It's easy to own, with good fuel economy - EPA estimated 21-city/30 highway. The inline 6-cylinder engine has dual overhead camshafts, variable valve timing, aluminum construction and other features that add up to performance. A standard 330i comes with a manual 5-speed transmission that zips from 0 to 60 in 6.4 seconds. It weights in at 3,285 pounds and is 107.33 inches long.

The 330i employs rear wheel drive (except the "ix" models which feature full-time all-wheel drive) and the 3 Series suspension, a unique combination of strut-type front and multi-link rear systems BMW engineers say contributes to outstanding handling and roadability.

It has a vast array of safety features that include dual front and side airbags, optional rear side airbags, Head Protection System (HPS), traction control, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Standard equipment on the very modern luxury car includes: automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, a theft-deterrent system, fog lights, heated outside mirrors, multi-function steering-wheels controls, titanium-finish interior trim, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD stereo with ten speakers, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Accommodations on the 330i include upgrades such as leather upholstery, wood trim, power front seats, Harmon-Kardon premium audio system, an onboard computer, twin chrome exhaust tips, front air dam integrated with the bumper, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The 330xi add DCS-X, the all-wheel drive version of the Dynamic Stability Control with a switch to allow the system to a provide higher threshold of slip. The 330ix also features full-time all-wheel drive, as well as Hill Descent Control to help the driver maintain speed and stability on steep downhill roads.

For good looks, mobility, top performance and creature comforts, auto enthusiasts will tell you that the BMW 330i is Best in Class, literally and figuratively.

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© 2000-2003 William Reed - www.BlackPressInternational.com