335i or 335xi, Auto or Manual?

[WelshBoyo]

I currently have a 3dr Mk5 Golf R32, but with the arrival of twins it is just too small a car. Therefore I am looking at getting another touring 3 series BMW.

I previously had a manual 330xi touring (4 wheeled drive), but never really liked the manual as it was quite clunky with the xDrive system compared to the standard rear wheeled drive. But I hear the new 6 speed on the 335 is much better.

Over here in Switzerland the most common is a 335xi (4 wheeled drive) and auto. I understand that the auto is a normal version compared to my Golf DSG (which I really like). Is the BMW auto any good?

Also what options are best to look out for. The least I want is one with iDrive navigation and parking sensors is there anythong else?

[THE arch stanton]

my 335i is a manual(not too many of them around) and the box is sweet enough, can be a touch obstructive once in a while but normally sweet enough. As my main driving now is a 50 mile a day commute I'd prefer an auto but the man is no bog dramas. I'd advise to go for the spec you want and go with whatever box is fitted (DAB radio and logic 7 HK is super!) but I have found myself lacking a little space with only 1 junior (and sometimes the GSD too) so maybe a 5 series is the better bet if you are having twin juniors..?

Good luck with the search and the nippers too mate