At the 2010 New York auto show, BMW brought back the "is" edition of the 3-series with the 335is. A tuned version of the standard 335i, the 335is has more power and unique cosmetic features.
Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
BMW attached the letter S to its 3-series cars since 1977, later adding a 5-series model. Designating sport, these models featured additions such as sport suspensions and seats. For the 2011 model year, the S returns to the 335i, designating a more powerful version of the 3-series.
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In coupe form, the 335is is a very good-looking car, showing a smooth silhouette. The 335is gets a black grille and black door sills, contrasting well with the red model on display in New York.
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These M package wheels also come with the 335is. BMW didn't upgrade the brakes, however, reasoning that the standard 3-series brakes are already very powerful.
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The 335is comes standard with a sport suspension, giving it a stiffer ride for better cornering. Accents include the black dual-exhaust tips.
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Although it uses the same twin turbo 3-liter straight six-cylinder engine as in the 2011 335i, the 335is gets tuned up for an extra 20 horsepower output.
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Being a 3-series, all of BMW's cabin tech is available, including the latest navigation system, Bluetooth phone support, and iPod integration.
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This model has the optional seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, an automated manual that lets you shift without pressing a clutch pedal.
