2009 BMW 335d, the AutoWeek Drivers Log

MANAGING EDITOR ROGER HART: Anyone who thinks Americans won't warm up to a diesel car should drive one of these. I mean, 425 lb-ft of torque has a way of turning people's heads in a different direction.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a more fun, more engaging commuter car, all things considered. Sure, you might get better fuel mileage from a Toyota Prius, and the greenies might praise you for driving a Honda Insight, but this 3-series is far more engaging to drive, all the while delivering more than 30 mpg.

My only complaint is that I'll take mine with a six-speed manual, please.

SENIOR WEB REPORTER GREG MIGLIORE: The torque is awesome, pulling you through the seat, impressing unsuspecting passengers and making passing a breeze. Mixed with the caramel interior and smooth chassis, it really makes this car a commuter's dream.

I found it to be more engaging than the E-class diesel that we had here awhile back. Again, that's probably the torque. The heavy steering is enjoyable and makes turning precise. The mpg figures are impressive, and I (and whoever else had this before me) burned through a quarter of a tank in a 133-mile interval. It seems you could save a lot of gasoline and get more function from this than a lot of hybrids.

Still, some American consumers will notice the diesel gurgle. It seemed a little louder than in the Benz in that respect.

SENIOR EDITOR FOR NEWS BOB GRITZINGER: This car is perfect, and not just for the diesel snobs or the BMW snobs or the 3-series snobs or the German-car-loving snobs. This car packs thrust unlike any other 30-mpg vehicle, combined with the spot-on BMW handling and steering that make it a relative bargain at this price (I heard one critic suggest that it was a fine car considering it cost $70,000--not even close to this sticker). I love tromping on the accelerator and feeling the gobs of power punch to the rear wheels, whether you're pulling away from a dead stop or launching from 50 mph to 75 mph.

There's not a ton of room in the back seat, and the lack of a fold-down seatback makes the 3 somewhat limited. But for those who want their performance sedan and 30 mpg regardless of how they drive, I'm not sure there's a better alternative--yet.

2009 BMW 335d

In Fleet: May 7-21

As-Tested Price: $49,920

Drivetrain: 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel I6; RWD, six-speed automatic

Output: 265 hp @ 6,400 rpm, 425 lb-ft @ 1,750-2250 rpm

Curb Weight: 3,825 lb

Fuel Economy: (EPA/AW) 27/31.4 mpg

Options: Sport package including 18-inch wheels with performance tires, sport steering wheel with paddles, sport seats, sport suspension, shadowline trim ($2,150); beige Dakota leather ($1,450); satellite radio with one-year subscription ($595); comfort access system ($500); iPod and USB adapter ($400)

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