We’ll give you a quick crash course in the E90-gen 3er before we get into the intricacies so you can catch up before you invest any money. Beginning in 2006 and lasting until 2012, the E90-generation BMW 3 Series received a mid-cycle refresh (LCI) in 2009.
Although it is referred to as the E90-generation, that chassis code actually has a few different iterations. Standard designations for vehicles include “E90” for sedans, “E91” for five-door wagons, “E92” for two-door coupes, and “E93” for two-door convertibles. The same is true for M3 cars, as this generation of BMW has no M-specific chassis codes.
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Coupe (E92) (E92)
One year after the saloon, the two-door version of the 3-Series was debuted in August 2006 as a 2007 model. Following the 325ix from the late 1980s and early 1990s, it is the second BMW coupe with all-wheel drive available. BMW xDrive is BMW’s designation for the system. The 320i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335is, 335xi, 320d, 325d, 330d, 335d, and 330xd trims are available for the E92 (availability of certain models depends on region).
Unlike its predecessors, the coupe’s body is entirely original and not based on the saloon with two less doors. Nearly all outward design elements are unique from their sedan counterparts. The kidney grills are more rounded, the headlamps are narrower, and the taillamps are significantly bigger. When compared to an E90 Sedan, the roofline is substantially lower, and the trunk and rear end seem to be “squished” down. Side skirts and bumpers are distinctive. Both the hood and the doors are a little bit longer. The driver and passenger windows have a shorter and wider design, but the rear passengers only get a considerably smaller side window. Additionally, the rear windshield appears to be smaller and offers less sight. The majority of wheel styles vary between the sedan and the coupe. For the base models, options include 17″ wheels, 18″ wheels with a sports package, and optional 19″ wheels. The front bucket seats, center console, and dashboard are all carried over from the sedan’s interior. The steering wheel is surrounded by a thin metallic strip. In the coupe as opposed to the sedan, metallic components such as door handles, steering wheel trim, radio knob bezzels, A/C vents, and automatic gearbox shift knobs are made of chrome. It has much longer door panels, a rear center console tray, and a two-passenger bench in place of the three-person bench. Instead of the normal Beige hue seen in the sedan, a “Creamy” Beige leather inside with a slightly lighter tone is featured in the coupe. Like its E46 predecessor, the coupe also has frameless doors. When the door is closed and the key fob is in the ignition, retractable arms that extend from the B-pillar can be used to hand the seat belt to the driver or passenger. An E92 costs about $3000 USD more than an E90 saloon, but it also has more equipment, like standard Xenon HID headlights.
In 2007, the coupe’s high-performance M3 model made its premiere at the Geneva Auto Show. For the first time in a 3-series, it has a V8 engine, the S65B40, derived from the BMW S85 V10 that powers the E60 M5.
In November 2009, the BMW M3 GTS, a high-performance version of the M3 coupe, made its premiere. It has a 450 horsepower upgraded 4.4 M3 V8 engine (336 kW; 456 PS). It also includes updated sports suspension, a light body, adjustable rear spoiler, and enhanced brakes with six-pot front brake calipers.
2005–2008 BMW 3 Series (E90)
The BMW 3 Series, whose production began in 1975, was the German manufacturer’s best-selling vehicle throughout its entire lifespan.
The E90, the fifth generation of the BMW 3 series, has a classic look. Four body types were produced for the E90: sedan (E90), coupe (E92), convertible (E91), and break (E91) (E93).
Xenon headlights, automatic climate control, a parking sensor, power-adjustable seats, satellite navigation, a glass sunroof, heated front seats, Bluetooth, and a USB audio input were all available as options. Additionally, other extras were offered, including the Premium Package with leather seats, an auto-dimming mirror, automatic folding outside mirrors, and BMW Assist with Bluetooth.
Headlight washers, heated front seats, and folding rear seats with a ski bag were all included with the Cold Weather Package. Additional amenities such as separate seats, steering wheels, sports suspension, keyless entry, and electronic damping control were also offered with the Sports Package and Technology Package.
Run-flat tires were an option for the 3 series, although they did not come with a spare tire. Joji Nagashima created the sedan and the tourer, while Michael Markefka created the coupe and the convertible.
The facelift version, which had both mechanical and design modifications, was introduced in September 2008. Along with the wing mirrors, headlights, taillights, trunk lid, and bigger kidney grilles, the front and rear bumpers received an upgrade.
The AWD versions, previously known as “Xi” AWD before the facelift, are now known as “xDrive” vehicles. The “Professional navigation system” was upgraded, the display’s resolution was raised, and the interior received minor upgrades.
Passion for Performance & Design
Learn how James Paick won the CSF Bimmer Challenge while driving his E92 BMW M3, and how he developed a passion for racing.
The fifth generation of the BMW 3 Series, often known as the E90 or E9X, was built from 2004 until 2013. BMW E90 (sedan), BMW E91 (wagon, or Touring), BMW E92 (coupe), and BMW E93 are among the chassis codes that are featured (convertible). BMW 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335is, 335d, and M3 are among the models.
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Factors That Make the E90 (E9X) 328i the Ideal BMW
Launched in 2004, the E90 BMW is the fifth generation of the 3 Series series. It was available in four body types, including coupe, convertible, wagon, and sedan, to compete with vehicles like the Mercedes C-Class and the Audi A4. The 3 Series lineup’s entry-level model in North America was the 328i, which had a superb straight-six engine, a gorgeous chassis, and everything else that has contributed to the success of the 3 Series lineup over the years. Let’s examine eight factors that make the 2008 BMW 328i one of the most popular used vehicles in 2022.
E90 Series Generation 3
We will now use the terms E9x or E90 to refer to the generic chassis. The following chassis are genuinely part of the E90 generation:
What does the BMW E90 mean?
First generation (E21; 1975), second generation (E30; 1982), third generation (E36; 1990), and fourth generation (E46; 1997) are the four generations. 5th generation (E90, E91, etc.)
Do I have an E90 or E92 BMW?
E and F numbers for BMW The German word Entwicklung, which means development, is represented by the letter E in the E-number. E numbers are the manufacturing code numbers assigned to newly developed automobiles before their official sales name has been determined.
The BMW E90: A good car?
E90 stands for the sedan, and E92 for the coupe. Since they both have the same BMW N52 engine, the engine specifications will not change. The E90 and E92 designations, however, indicate that the cars actually rest on separate chassis. Specifications like the 328i’s weight, length, ground clearance, etc. differ depending on whether it’s a coupe or a sedan.
A 328i is it an E90?
The letters LCI in the BMW logo stand for Life Cycle Impulse. Company’s a name that BMW came up with to describe the mid-cycle tweaks that it delivers some models. An LCI is not simply a cosmetic “facelift” of the vehicle, as is a common misperception within the BMW community.
BMW E90: What does LCI stand for?
Coupe is E92, Sedan is E90, Wagon is E91, and Convertible is E93. What they say, then, leaves us with… And, without meaning to be impolite, the grey bar above your post says it all. all four doors
What distinguishes the BMW E90 from the F30?
- BMW E30 M3 (1986-1991) The very first BMW M3 produced, the E30, is regarded by many auto aficionados (including us) as the best M3 ever. It was the BMW M3 that started it all.
- BMW i8 (2014-2020) (2014-2020)
- 4 Series BMW (2014-present)
- 3 Series BMW (1975-present)
- BMW X1 (2009-present) (2009-present)
- BMW Z3 (1998-2003) (1998-2003)
Which E90 year is the most dependable?
Standard designations for vehicles include “E90” for sedans, “E91” for five-door wagons, “E92” for two-door coupes, and “E93” for two-door convertibles. The same is true for M3 cars, as this generation of BMW has no M-specific chassis codes.
E90 engine dependability
Although your vehicle’s model number is prominently badged on the back of your BMW, internal classifications into E/F and G model codes also exist. The body style, model, and approximate age can typically be determined by specialists or dealers using this three-digit combination.
Older BMWs are they reliable?
Overheating engines, gearbox troubles, oil leaks, and fuel pump issues are a few of the most prevalent BMW issues. Even while we now tend to hope for (or at least anticipate) few to no issues when purchasing our cars, there are no flawless automakers.
Which BMW series is the best?
The most recent 3 Series you can afford is the best used model. If not, you’ll end up spending far more than you intended. And if at all feasible, aim for a CPO 3’er. If not, the 2019 and 2021 model years of the BMW 3 Series are the most dependable.
What distinguishes E90 and E91 from one another?
The N-series engines were utilized throughout the whole E90. Although the induction varies per model, they are all 3.0L inline-6 cylinder engines. The 328i was the last model in the US of the 3-series to have a naturally aspirated engine. All F30s have turbocharged engines, ranging in size from 2.0L inline-4 to 3.0L inline-6.
How can I figure out which BMW model I have?
The N52 has proven to be more dependable than its larger sibling, the N54, thanks to the engine design. Drivers of the N52 won’t have to worry about these two typical N54 problems because the N52 lacks an HPFP or direct injection.
How Reliable Is the E90 3 Series?
Although the BMW E90 3-Series without a turbocharger isn’t the most powerful, it is the most dependable. The 325i was the entry-level model when the E90 made its début in 2006. A 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine with 215 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque was installed in it.
Which BMW 3 Series is the most trustworthy?
As an illustration, the E46 330i ZHP performs better than the E90 325i. Nevertheless, the E90 excels in terms of performance overall. In comparison to the E46, the E90 has higher power, torque, and faster acceleration. Additionally, the E90 transmissions shift more smoothly and quickly.
What is a typical BMW engine issue?
The E90 3 Series is likely your best option for a trustworthy secondhand BMW today. especially the N52 BMW inline-6 engine found in the non-turbocharged 325i, 328i, and 330i cars. However, even BMWs can experience maintenance or dependability concerns.
Do BMWs cost a lot to maintain?
It is frequently discovered that older BMWs—generally those produced in the late 1990s and early 2000s—are more dependable than newer BMWs. Though not always the case, take note. This applies to the majority of other brands as well, not only BMW. Early automobiles from the era have simple engineering and construction.