When the 2006 BMW 3-Series goes on sale in May, two sedan models will be initially offered, both equipped with a new 3.0-liter, dual overhead cam, inline six-cylinder engine featuring Double VANOS variable valve timing and Valvetronic electronic throttle technology to develop maximum power coupled with maximum efficiency. Fuel economy estimates are not yet available, but both versions of this motor are rated to meet Ultra Low Emission Vehicle-2 (ULEV-2) standards.

The engine installed in the 325i sedan generates 215 horsepower at 6,250 rpm, 31 more than before. Torque peaks at an impressively low 2,750 rpm, where 185 lb.-ft. of twist is available. More power combined with a lower torque curve brings the 2006 325i's zero-to 60 mph acceleration time down to 6.7 seconds with the manual transmission and 7.2 seconds with the automatic, according to BMW.

The engine installed in the 330i might be exactly the same size, but it's got three-stage induction (rather than single-stage in the 325i) and revised software mapping to generate 255 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 220 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,750 rpm. BMW says that the 2006 330i will run to 60 mph in about six seconds flat, with only a slight acceleration penalty exacted when it's equipped with the optional automatic.

In both models, a six-speed manual transmission drives the rear wheels, with a new six-speed Steptronic automatic with normal, sport, and manual modes available. Starting in the fall, a Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) will be offered on the 330i equipped with the Sport package. Another latecomer to the powertrain is a Comfort Access keyless ignition system complete with a Start/Stop button on the dashboard.

Though the suspension is completely redesigned, BMW hasn't strayed far from the successful formula of front MacPherson struts and a rear multilink setup for the 2006 3-Series. Up front, the new double-pivot strut suspension is composed entirely of aluminum, and the five-link setup in back is brand new. Standard and Sport suspension calibration is offered, and the fast-reacting Active Steering system from the 5-Series is available on cars equipped with the Sport package. Thanks to the use of lightweight materials in the front suspension and engine blocks, BMW has been able to maintain close to an ideal 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution for optimum handling and responsiveness.

Run-flat tires are standard on both the 325i and the 330i. Standard equipment for the 325i is a 16-inch aluminum wheel wearing 205/55 all-season tires, and for the 330i it's 17-inch alloys shod with 225/45 all-season rubber. Add the optional Sport package to either model for plus-one wheel sizes and lower-profile performance tires. A tire pressure monitoring system is also standard.

Initially, the 2006 BMW 3-Series will debut as a sedan, but a coupe, a convertible, and a station wagon will follow at staggered intervals within two years. Also, BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is almost certain to be available for owners in foul-weather climates. And when the new M3 arrives, it will probably pack a V8 punch for the first time ever.