combination, which was part of our test car's package, limits the car's body roll in
hard cornering and provides extra grip. Ride quality is firmer, and it's easier to
feel those small bumps, but we prefer the enhanced crisper handling response.
The new 2.8-liter engine is a joy to live with. BMW has been building inline 6-cyl.
engines for a long time, a corporate powertrain priority based on the inherently low
vibration traits of this configuration. This latest update is as smooth as any that
BMW has produced, and as we noted earlier it's got plenty of grunt in the lower rpm
ranges, something that's not true of all small-displacement multi-valve powerplants.
In addition to the near-absence of vibration and impressive power, the 2.8-liter six
is also exceptionally quiet at most operating speeds. Allied with good aerodynamic
traits and extra sound insulation, this adds up to a quieter passenger cabin.
The 328's braking performance is world-class. All models have large brake rotors at
both ends of the car--11.3-in. front, 11.0-in. rear--and all the rotors are ventilated
for improved cooling. Stops are quick, sure and repeatable. Provoking brake-fade in
this system would require a race track and lots of laps. Next Page